Our early medical termination service is a free, non-judgemental provision of care for women who have an unplanned pregnancy of less than ten weeks. The service is provided by skilled and experienced clinicians in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Our staff can offer women advice and guidance with their choice in the management of their pregnancy, along with comprehensive ongoing contraceptive care and emotional support.

'Early medical termination' or ‘abortion’ is the term used when someone chooses to go through a medical process (taking prescribed tablets) to end their pregnancy. It is not the same as a miscarriage, which is where the pregnancy ends without medical intervention.

There are many reasons why someone might decide to have an early medical termination (abortion).  These may relate to personal circumstances, family considerations, health factors, or concerns identified during pregnancy.  Every situation is unique, and there is no single reason why people choose early medical termination (abortion).

In the UK, around one in three women will have an early medical termination (abortion) by the age of 45.

Having an early medical termination (abortion) is a personal decision.  If you are unsure about what is right for you, support and advice are available.  You can speak with a healthcare professional, who can provide information, discuss your options, and help you make an informed decision.

If you are in a relationship, you might want to talk to your partner about your options. You may want to consider your circumstances together. But even if your partner is the person who you became pregnant with, that doesn't mean they can tell you what decision to make. It's your body and your choice.

Early medical termination (abortion) is a very safe procedure. The earlier an early medical termination (abortion) is carried out, the safer it is.

Lots of studies have found that early medical termination (abortion) does not affect your chances of becoming pregnant in the future.

The options you have will depend on how many weeks pregnant you are and your medical health.

As different women will have different reasons for considering an early medical termination (abortion), it's important to consider your unique situation. Some people are very clear about their decision whilst others find it really hard and might take some time to make up their mind.

You may find it helpful to talk to someone you trust - this might be a friend or family member, or a healthcare professional or support worker. There are lots of organisations that can give you information, confidential advice and support (see below).

There are some risks associated with early medical terminations (abortions) to be aware of. These are rare and usually happen within a short period following the procedure:

  • hemorrhage (excessive bleeding which might require a blood transfusion) occurs in less than one in every 1,000 early medical termination (abortion)
  • fewer than six in 100 women will have an incomplete abortion (will have some retained products of conception which might require an operation)
  • fewer than two in 100 women will have an unsuccessful termination and the pregnancy continues; if the pregnancy continues surgical termination would be recommended
  • fewer than one in 100 women will have an infection afterwards
  • you should seek immediate medical help after having an abortion if you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain or have a high temperature

In most areas of England you can refer yourself. To find out if you can self-refer for NHS-funded early medical termination (abortion) care, call 0300 456 2217 if you are a Dorset resident.

You will be offered an appointment with one of the three abortion service providers in Dorset. If you choose an appointment with Sexual Health Dorset, your first appointment will usually be a telephone consultation. During this call, a member of the team will ask you about your medical history and discus the available treatment options to determine the most appropriate pathway for your care.

Depending on your individual circumstances and suitability for treatment, you will then be offered a further appointment, either by telephone or at a clinic. Some people may require additional appointments as part of their care.

If a clinic appointment is needed, you will usually have an ultrasound scan before treatment is provided. If you are suitable for treatment following a telephone consultation, the medication can usually be posted to your home address.

As a sexual health service, we can also discuss and provide future contraception as part of your care, helping you to choose a method that best suits your needs and preferences.

We also recommend testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as part of your care with us. These can be done in clinic or ordered here.

We advise you to read through any information that is sent to you prior to your appointments.

Some people like to access support before their treatment, it may be during or after. We will provide you with contact details following your treatment and please do not hesitate to get in contact if you have any questions or concerns.

You will also have access to 111 or your GP following your treatment.

  • Abortion Talk (https://www.abortiontalk.com/) is a charity opening up conversations around abortion by creating spaces for anyone affected by their experience to talk and be heard.
  • Women on Web (https://www.womenonweb.org/en/page/6906/the-abortion-process) questions and answers on early medical termination (abortion).
Frequently asked questions