Abortion: What to do

Step 1: Confirm the pregnancy 

The first thing to do is have some tests to confirm that you are pregnant.

These tests include:

• a urine test (available from a pharmacist, supermarket or GP)
• a blood test (arranged by a GP or available from some abortion care services).
• an ultrasound scan (arranged by a GP or available from some abortion care services).

Most people will need to see a GP to have their pregnancy confirmed.  

Step 2: Choose an abortion method 

If you are under 9 weeks (63 days) of pregnancy you may be able to choose between a medication or surgical abortion, depending on any other health issues you may have.

If you are over 9 weeks pregnant you will need to have a surgical abortion. 
 

Step 3: Find an abortion service 

We can help you find an abortion service. You can either speak to one of our phone workers who will give you a number of different options for services, or you can search for an abortion service on our website.

You can also speak to a GP about abortion services.

Most abortion services do not need a GP referral. 

You will need to contact the abortion service to make an appointment. They can tell you about any fees and charges.

Step 4: Planning your time 

You will usually need at least a couple of days to have the abortion, rest and recover.  

If you are having a medication abortion:

• It can be helpful to have someone with you during the time of your abortion 
• You may need to consider getting some help with childcare if you have young children
• You may be able to time your abortion so it occurs over the weekend 
• You will be given the details of a phoneline that you can call if you have any questions during the abortion process. This phoneline is staffed by trained nurses

If you are having a surgical abortion:

• You will spend at least half a day at the hospital or clinic
• You may need some time off work or get help with childcare
• You will need someone to take you home from the hospital or clinic  
   

Step 5: Follow up care 

Your doctor will talk to you about any follow-up care that you might need. This may include any contraception needs you may have.

You should be able to return to your normal activities within a couple of days of your abortion

If you are worried about anything you should contact the doctor/service who provided the abortion.  

If you are feeling distressed after your abortion you can speak to a pregnancy options counsellor. Some abortion services may provide their own post-abortion counselling services. You can also speak to your GP or us to help you find a counselling service.