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Frequently asked questions

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General abortion questions 

An abortion is the medical process of ending a pregnancy. We offer two types of abortion care: medical abortion and surgical abortion. Read our answers to frequently asked questions about abortion below. 

Medical abortion 

One of the treatment options we provide is a medical abortion, which uses medication to end a pregnancy. This option is available for up to 9 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy. Read our answers to frequently asked questions about medical abortion below. 

Medical abortion is a very safe option, but as with any medical treatment, there are  possible complications or risks, and it is important that you understand the signs to look out for.  
 
Incomplete abortion – uncommon (affects 3 in 100 people) 
This means that the pregnancy is no longer developing, but some of the tissue is left in the womb. This can cause pain and bleeding, and may lead to infection. If incomplete abortion is diagnosed, further treatment will usually be recommended. The treatment offered may be medical (such as taking misoprostol tablets and antibiotics) or a minor surgical procedure to remove the pregnancy tissue from the womb. 

If medical abortion tablets are given at the same time, the risk increases slightly to 5 in 100 people.  

Treatment failure (continuing pregnancy) – uncommon (affects 1 in 100 people) 
This means that the pregnancy continues to develop, even after taking both sets of tablets. In the event of continuing pregnancy further treatment, such as medical (misoprostol) or surgical treatment, will be discussed. Depending on how many weeks pregnant you are the options would include repeating the medical abortion or offering a surgical abortion. Very occasionally you may need to be referred to another NHS service. 

We recommend doing a pregnancy test 3 weeks after treatment (any earlier test will not be reliable). 
If medical abortion tablets are given at the same time, the risk increases slightly to 2 in 100 people. 

Infection – uncommon (affects less than 1 in 100 people) 
This can be reduced by following our aftercare advice. If an infection is not treated it can lead to further serious problems and future infertility. If you have symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), such as unusual vaginal discharge, fever, or pain and discomfort in the lower abdomen you must seek urgent medical attention. See your GP or visit your local A&E department. 

Haemorrhage – very rare for a medical abortion (affects less than 1 in 1000) 
If you experience bleeding that is soaking through more than 2 sanitary pads an hour you should seek urgent medical advice. 

Infection after an abortion

Infection after an abortion is uncommon, but if it occurs it is easily treated. If you have any of the following symptoms, please call our 24-hour aftercare line on 0345 122 1441:

– Vaginal discharge that smells unpleasant or is an unusual colour for you.
– Fever, feeling shivery or like you have the flu lasting more than 24 hours after taking misoprostol.
– Lower abdominal pain that persists or becomes worse after passing the pregnancy.

Sepsis can be caused by an infection and whilst after an abortion it is rare, it can be serious. Symptoms of sepsis can be like having the flu at first.

If you have any of the signs below it is important to seek urgent medical advice:

– Confusion
– Slurred speech
– Extreme shivering
– Severe muscle pain
– Being unable to urinate
– Severe breathlessness
– Cold, clammy and pale or blotchy skin
– Loss of consciousness

Please keep in mind that not everyone will be suitable for medical abortion treatment. However, you may still be suitable for a surgical abortion. During your consultation we will discuss your medical history to make sure the option is safe for you. 

If you have any questions about treatment suitability, you can call us any time on 0345 300 8090

Surgical abortion 

One of the treatment options we provide is a surgical abortion. Surgical abortion is a procedure that involves the pregnancy being removed through the vagina using a suction method. This option is available for up to 23 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy. Read our answers to frequently asked questions about surgical abortion below. 

Abortion aftercare 

Everybody will have a different experience after either a medical or surgical abortion has been completed. To help support your recovery, we have answered frequently asked questions about abortion aftercare below.

Pregnancy 

If you have had sex without using contraception, or your contraception has failed, you could be at risk of becoming pregnant. We are here if you need to talk and can help you access care and support if you need.

Vasectomy

Vasectomy is a quick, safe, and effective method of contraception, for those who are sure they don’t want any, or any more children. Read our answers to frequently asked questions about vasectomy below.