Having an abortion is free on the NHS.
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.
It can be a confusing and emotional choice, but it's one that needs to be made as soon as possible.
The earlier in a pregnancy an abortion happens, the safer it is. Getting advice early on can also give people more time and space to think.
The decision to go ahead with an abortion is down to the individual themselves, however they may want to speak to their partner, friends or family about it.
Having an abortion is completely confidential and no-one will know unless they are told by the person themselves. All details will be kept confidential.
If the pregnant person is under 16, their parents do not usually need to be told. The doctor or nurse may encourage them to tell a parent, carer or other adult they trust, but they will not make you.
Having an abortion will not affect a person's chances of becoming pregnant again and having normal pregnancies in the future.
Women can get pregnant straight after an abortion, so discussing contraception is important if they do not want to get pregnant.
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 doctor 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 doctor and ask for a referral to an abortion service - the doctor should refer you to another doctor if he or she has any objections to abortion
- contact a sexual health clinic (sometimes called family planning or GUM (genitourinary medicine) clinics) and ask 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 for many women. There is support and advice on offer around mental health and wellbeing during this time.
Impartial information and support are available from:
- your doctor or another doctor at your doctor practice
- a counselling service at the abortion clinic
- organisations such as Brook (for under-25s)