FAQ

No.
Both medical and surgical abortions are safe and do not affect your fertility.
You will still be able to have a baby in the future if you choose to.

Medical Abortion

Cramping for a few hours while the pregnancy passes
Pain can be moderate to strong, similar to a heavy period or miscarriage

Surgical Abortion

  • Cramping may happen for a few minutes during the suction part
  • Many people feel it’s quicker and less intense

Strong pain relief is offered for both.
Talk to our nurses if you’re worried about pain — we’ll help

It depends on your gestation and your personal preference.

You must have a surgical abortion if you’re over 8 weeks and 6 days.
If you’re under that, you can choose based on what suits you best.

Medical Abortion

  • Happens mostly at home
  • May feel more “natural” (like a miscarriage)
  • No instruments or internal exams
  • Bleeding and cramping may be heavier
  • You may see the pregnancy tissue
  • Process takes a few days and includes follow-up blood tests
  • You’ll need a support person at home during your bleeding day
  • IUDs (if wanted) are inserted at a later appointment

Surgical Abortion

  • Done in one day at the clinic
  • Minimal bleeding, and you don’t have to see any pregnancy tissue)
  • Sedation and local anesthetic help with comfort and anxiety
  • An IUD can be placed during the procedure
  • Cramping lasts just a few minutes
  • Can feel more invasive for some people
  • You can’t drive after — someone must take you home
  • Support person is encouraged but not required
  • You’ll have nurses and doctors supporting you the whole time

Both procedures are very safe, but like any medical procedure, there’s a small chance of complications.

The most common is:

  • Retained tissue – a small amount of pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus
    • This may require extra medicine or another suction
    • It’s slightly more common with medical abortion

We’ll check in with you after your abortion and provide follow-up care if needed.

Need Help Deciding?

Our nurses and counsellors are here to guide you through your options.
Call us on 09 638 6040
Or email: