Termination/Abortion

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An abortion is a procedure used to end the development of an embryo or foetus by terminating a pregnancy. If the woman is less than 9 weeks into the pregnancy she has the choice of a medical or surgical abortion, if further than 9 weeks the medical method is less effective. For any advise about methods of abortion you should speak to a professional who can identify the best treatment for you.

The decision to have an abortion is extremely difficult therefore it is imperative that you seek appropriate help. Counselling during the first stages of pregnancy can help the individual reach a well-informed decision that they see as being best for them and the baby. Your nearest family planning clinic should have someone trained to talk to you in confidence. It can also be helpful to confide in someone you completely trust to gain support through the difficult choice. The best people to talk to are often people who care about you that have a practical view about how this decision is going to affect your life. This allows you to make the best decision possible but also gives you someone to share your feelings with. The most important thing is that you do not rush this decision; it is likely to affect you for the rest of your life.

Some reasons women consider an abortion:

The age of the woman can sometimes affect her decision; if a young girl is pregnant and feels she would not be able to cope or sufficiently bring up a child at that point in her life, an abortion might be considered.

The woman just may not want to be pregnant.

The pregnancy may have been unintentional and the woman may feel she is not ready to have a baby.

If the woman or couple cannot afford to support a child.

If the pregnancy is endangering the woman's health.

If the foetus is developing a severe abnormality.

Common Physical Side Effects:

There are possible physical side effects after you have had an abortion, however some women do not experience any of them. Your menstrual period will stop temporarily but should return in about 6 weeks.

Sickness and /or diarrhoea

Spotting or bleeding

Stomach cramps and pains

Feeling unwell and sick

Less Common Physical Side Effects:

You should book an appointment to see your Doctor if any of the following occur.

Extremely heavy bleeding, more than your usual period

Excruciating stomach or back pains

Discharge that has an awful odour

Possible Emotional Effects:

Lower self-esteem and confidence

Denial

Isolated and lonely feelings

Relationship difficulties

Emotional numbness

Feeling agitated and angry more often

Pain during sex

Disrupted sleeping patterns or insomnia

Fear of others finding out

Eating disorders

Depression

Drugs or alcohol abuse

Suicidal feelings or attempting suicide

Difference between a Miscarriage and an Abortion:

If natural causes end a pregnancy it is known as a miscarriage. An abortion occurs when the pregnancy is terminated intentionally by either taking medication (medical abortion) or by having surgery (surgical abortion)

Further Info & Advice

Abortion/Termination: Concerns & Uncertainties

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