Abortion

Abortion options

Abortion is a safe and increasingly common healthcare procedure and is legal across Australia. There are two types:

• Medical abortion – involves taking prescription medication at home or in a safe place to end an early pregnancy (up to 9 weeks).
• Surgical abortion – involves a minor day procedure performed by a trained health professional in a hospital or clinic.

Costs vary between providers and states/territories, but medical abortion is generally less expensive than surgical abortion.

Medical abortion  

Medical abortion can take place up to 9 weeks gestation. You may need an ultrasound beforehand if you are unsure of your period dates.

There are two medications used in an early medical abortion. The first stops the pregnancy and the second makes the muscles of the uterus contract to expel the tissue. A doctor, nurse practitioner or endorsed midwife can prescribe MS-2Step® as well as order ultrasounds and blood tests to help you plan timing, support and follow up.

Surgical abortion  

Surgical abortion is easily carried out up to 12 weeks of pregnancy in a private clinic or hospital.

Abortion after 12 weeks can still be performed safely by experienced doctors, but the procedure may differ slightly and may only be available at certain clinics or hospitals depending on the laws and availability in your state or territory.

If you are getting an abortion, or supporting someone who is, you can get more information and support here:

Pregnancy Choices Helpline – 1800 008 463 (information and referral across Australia)

• Pregnancy Choices Helpline, who you can call on 1800 008 463.
• 1800 My Options, who you can call on 1800 696 784.
• Family Planning NSW Talkline, who you can call on 1300 658 886.
• Children by Choice, which is a QLD-based comprehensive online resource.