There are 2 types of abortion in Aotearoa New Zealand. They are:
- medical abortion (taking medicines to end your pregnancy)
- surgical abortion (minor operation).
The type of abortion available to you will depend on:
- how many weeks pregnant you are
- your medical history
- what is available in your region.
Up to 10 weeks of pregnancy, you may be able to have a medical abortion at home.
DECIDE has detailed information on:
- abortion types
- when in your pregnancy different abortion types are available
- information about abortion
- access to abortion providers.
DECIDE
About your first appointment
Before your first appointment, we will order a blood test to be completed before you come in.
The first appointment is not your procedure.
At your first appointment you can expect:
- optional counselling
- an ultrasound
- medical assessment
- vaginal swabs (self-test)
- a booking for your next appointment — your procedure date.
You will need to come to Wellington Regional Hospital for your appointments.
Counselling services
Counselling is optional — but we highly recommend people use it. Abortion counselling supports you to make a decision about your pregnancy when you are unsure about your options.
Our professionals offer support if the option of abortion is chosen and you are feeling alone with the decision. It can be difficult to tell other people, and this is where a neutral supporter can be helpful.
There are other hospital departments that may be able to offer extra support for you during your time with us.
Pacific Health and Whānau Care Services provide cultural support for Pacific and Māori patients and their families. Talk to us if you would like this extra support and we can arrange referral.
We also offer a counselling phone service — however, you may still need to come into the hospital if necessary. Our team will speak to you confidentially on the phone to make sure you access the most appropriate services.
Post-abortion counselling is also there for you and your whānau. Call us and we will make a follow-up counselling appointment.