Medical Abortion (Abortion with Pills)

A medical abortion uses medicine to end an early pregnancy.
It’s safe and effective up to 8 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy and happens mostly at home.

This process is similar to a natural miscarriage. You’ll take two types of medicine:

  • The first stops pregnancy hormones
  • The second causes the uterus to cramp and release the pregnancy

How it works

No referral is needed — just a positive home pregnancy test.

When you contact us, a nurse will:

  1. Ask some questions about your health, offer to set up a counselling appointment if you need help making a decision.
  2. Arrange blood tests for you at your local Awanui Lab and send you an information pack.
  3. After you’ve had your blood tests, call us back to book the type of abortion you prefer.

Your appointment

  • We’ll do a basic ultrasound with no sound, you will be asked if you want to see the screen or not.
  • You’ll talk with a nurse about:
    • Your health and personal situation
    • Contraception options (if wanted)
  • You’ll take the first medicine at the clinic.
  • You’ll be given the second medicine and pain relief to take at home in 1–2 days.
  • We’ll explain what to expect and how to reach us if needed

You’ll also need two follow-up blood tests (done at Awanui Lab) to confirm the abortion is complete.

What to expect at home

  • Bleeding and cramping usually start a few hours after the second medicine.
  • It may be heavier than a period with some clots and you may see pregnancy tissue — this is normal
  • You must have an adult support person with you.
  • You can usually return to work or study the next day. We can provide a medical certificate if needed

Good to know

  • Appointment time: approx. 2 hours
  • Medical abortion is free for those eligible for healthcare in Auckland, Waitematā, or Counties Manukau.
  • If you are not eligible, see our price list.