Most abortions happen before 24 weeks. Only in special situations can they happen after this.
It can be a very emotional and confusing time. The earlier someone gets advice, the more time they have to think clearly about their choice.
People under 16 can get an abortion without their parents being told, unless they choose to involve them.
Having an abortion does not stop someone from getting pregnant in the future. People can get pregnant again quickly, so it is important to talk about contraception afterwards.
Abortion services
Abortions can only be carried out under the care of an NHS hospital or a licensed clinic.
If an individual is less than 10 weeks pregnant, they may be able to have a medical termination at home after an initial appointment with the hospital or clinic.
Advise the individual to speak to a GP and ask for a referral to a termination service.
There are 3 main ways to get a termination on the NHS:
- self-referral - the following services offer abortion services:
- speak to a GP and asking for a referral to an abortion service - the GP should advise the individual to speak to another GP if they have any personal objections to abortion
- contact a sexual health clinic, sometimes called family planning or genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic and asking for a referral to an abortion service
You can find out more about abortion from Your Sexual Health Matters which has information about eligibility and services in the area.
Emotional health and wellbeing
Deciding to have an abortion can be a difficult, upsetting, and isolating feeling. Professionals should provide non-judgmental, compassionate support.
Impartial information and support are available from:
- any GP at an individual's registered GP practice
- a counselling service at the abortion clinic
- organisations such as Brook (for under-25s)
- Talk it Over pregnancy loss and options support