Abortion

An abortion is the medical process of ending a pregnancy so it doesn't result in the birth of a baby.

It's also sometimes known as a termination.

The pregnancy is ended either by taking medications or having a minor surgical procedure.

One in three women will have an abortion in their lifetime.

How to get an abortion

Abortions can only be carried out in an NHS hospital or a licensed clinic, and are usually available free of charge on the NHS.

There are three main ways to get an abortion on the NHS:

• contact an abortion provider directly –the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS) Marie Stopes UK and the National Unplanned Pregnancy Advisory Service (NUPAS) can tell you about eligibility and services in your area
• speak to your GP and ask for a referral to an abortion service – your GP should refer you to another doctor if he or she has any objections to abortion
• visit a contraception clinic,family planning clinic,sexual health clinic or genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic and ask for a referral to an abortion service
Waiting times can vary, but you shouldn't have to wait more than two weeks from your initial appointment to having an abortion.
Abortions can also be paid for privately if you prefer. Costs for private abortions vary depending on the stage of pregnancy and the method used to carry out the procedure.