Q16. What happens at the initial consultation?

A16. This involves you having several separate meetings with the doctor and in-house counsellors. You will meet with the doctor to start with who will discuss the abortion process with you. He or she will examine you and carry out an ultrasound scan to determine how many weeks pregnant you are.

This will determine the type of abortion you have.

He or she will complete and sign the legal document required by The Abortion Act 1967.

You will then meet with a second doctor at the clinic who will talk to you about your reasons for an abortion and if satisfied, will also sign the legal form.

You will then be referred back to a counsellor who will explain how the process works and will answer any questions you may have. He or she will complete any paperwork and will provide you with information about the clinic.

The next step is to book an appointment for your abortion.

Find out more in our preparing for an abortion section.

FAQS Index:

Abortion FAQs

1. My pregnancy is unplanned, should I consider an abortion?
2. Does abortion hurt?
3. Why is abortion such a controversial issue?
4. I am thinking about having an abortion; what do I need to consider?
5. Is there more than one type of abortion?
6. I am under 16; do I have to get my parents permission to have an abortion?
7. How much does an abortion cost?
8. What reasons do women give for having an abortion?
9. Should I have my abortion on the NHS or at a private clinic?
10. Does counselling help?

12. How do I arrange an abortion on the NHS?
13. How do I arrange an abortion at a private clinic?
14. What is a ‘late term abortion?’
15. How safe is an abortion?
16. Will having an abortion make me infertile?
17. What happens at the initial consultation?
18. What are the risks of an abortion?
19. What can I expect after my abortion?
20. What is the aftercare?
21. Will I be able to have a baby some point in the future even though I have had an abortion?