What to expect

We’ll ask you to bring the following things with you to your appointment:

• Any medication you’re taking (including inhalers)
• Any information you have from your doctor about any medical conditions
• Your referral letter from your doctor or family planning clinic, if you have one
• Any notes from a previous consultation
• An extra pair of comfortable underwear
• Your glasses and contact lens kit if you wear contact lenses. You may need to remove your contacts before your treatment
• Your payment method if you’re paying for your abortion.

We recommend you bring a friend or member of your family with you when you have your abortion.

They can stay with you in the waiting area, but not during your consultation or treatment. Our nurses and healthcare assistants will be there to support you.

If you’re under 16, you’ll need an adult (someone 18 or over) to accompany you home after your treatment.

Most women recover quickly from an abortion.

Chances are, you will too. But there are a few things you can do to make the experience easier. Avoid having sex for two weeks to minimise the risk of infection. Start using contraception straight away to protect yourself from another pregnancy. And keep an eye on your bleeding. Most women bleed for one or two weeks afterwards and it’ll feel a bit like having a period.

Above all, if you have any worries at all – whether that’s to do with your physical or emotional wellbeing – get in touch with us or your GP. We offer confidential counselling if you want to talk about how you’re feeling, and our aftercare line is open 24 hours a day.