An abortion is a procedure that ends a pregnancy. Also sometimes known as a termination of pregnancy, the procedure could either involve taking medicines or a surgical procedure.

Abortions can only be carried out under the care of an NHS hospital or a licensed clinic and are usually available free of charge on the NHS. If you are less than 10 weeks pregnant, you may be able to have a medical abortion at home after an initial appointment with the hospital or clinic. 

Most abortions in England, Wales and Scotland are carried out before 24 weeks of pregnancy. They can be carried out after 24 weeks in very limited circumstances – for example, if the mother's life is at risk or the child would be born with a severe disability. In these circumstances the pregnant women will likely need a referral to a specialist centre.

An ultrasound scan may be required to work out how many weeks pregnant one is before the termination can take place.

Abortions are safer the earlier they're carried out. Getting advice early on will give more time to decide.

Deciding to Have an Abortion:

The decision to have an abortion lies solely with the pregnant person.

Some may be certain they want to have an abortion, while others may find it more difficult to decide. Anyone requesting an abortion can discuss their options with, and receive support from, a trained pregnancy counsellor if they wish.

A patient can also receive impartial information and support from:
 

• Their GP or another doctor at their GP practice.
• A counselling service at the abortion clinic.

The patient may also want to speak to their partner, friends or family about their options. However, this is up to each individual as nobody else has a say in their decision. Furthermore, if the patient does not wish to share or tell anyone about the details of the abortion, their details can be kept completely confidential.

If the patient is under 16, their parents do not usually need to be told. However, they may be encouraged by the doctor or the nurse to tell a parent, carer or another trusted adult if it is appropriate. 

Self-referral - Anybody can self-refer by contacting Marie Stopes International Reproductive Services directly: Click here to learn more about NHS-funded MSI abortion services.