Medical Abortion vs Surgical Abortion
IMPORTANT NOTE: This comparison is for 'in-clinic' medical abortion (NOT Tele-Abortion) which is similar to the medical abortion process, but quite different in many respects. It is important to note that in the case of Tele-Abortion, you will be responsible for having the tests done locally, and unlike in-clinic surgical or medical abortion, there is LIMITED MEDICARE REBATE available for Tele-Abortion.
Surgical Abortion
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Performed between 6-17 weeks of pregnancy
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Requires a more complex, longer procedure after 14 weeks of pregnancy
Timing
Process
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Procedure performed in our operating room
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Performed under intravenous sedation (twilight)
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Pregnancy tissue is gently removed from the uterus
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Procedure generally takes 10-15 minutes but you will be in our clinic for a total of approximately 3 hours (including recovery time)
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You will need to take a dose of antibiotics at home (Clinic 66 will provide the prescription)
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May only require one clinic visit
Supports & Recovery
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It is ideal to have a support person to accompany you to the clinic and take you home after the procedure
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You are unable to drive 24 hours after sedation
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Afterwards, you will remain in our recovery room with ongoing nursing care until you have fully recovered and are able to go home
Side Effects
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May feel tired/vague for the rest of the day due to the sedation used
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May experience bleeding and mild cramping, lasting less than 2 weeks (similar to a period)
Cost
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For all patients upfront cost is $950. Patients that hold a valid Medicare card will be able to claim a Medicare benefit, which will be paid electronically into their nominated bank account.
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Surgical termination of pregnancy beyond 12 weeks have higher fees. Please call 0294113411 to discuss fees for midtrimester abortion
Medical Abortion
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Ideally performed between 5-7 weeks of pregnancy
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Can be performed up to 9 weeks of pregnancy
Timing
Process
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Two sets of medications which together, cause effects similar to a miscarriage
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First set of medications (Mifepristone) taken at the clinic or at home, and second set of medications (Misoprostol) taken at home 24-48 hours later
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Leads to cramping (ranging from mild to severe) and bleeding which can last up to 3 weeks
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Follow up visit is required 3 weeks later, and possible repeat ultrasound assessment to ensure the termination is complete
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Suited to women with a BMI over 40, as does not require an anaesthetic
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It is highly recommended that you have someone to support you at home for at least the first 24 hours after taking the second set of medications
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Clinic 66 doctors can provide you with medications to assist with pain and cramping
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We will follow you up to ensure that the process is complete and to ensure your health, wellbeing, and satisfaction with the outcome.
Supports & Recovery
Side Effects
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Cramping (ranging from mild to severe) and bleeding which can last up to 3 weeks
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Nausea and vomiting, fever and chills are common druing the second step of the medical termination process
Cost
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For patients on a weekday, with a medicare card:
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Upfront cost = $480
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If you have a valid medicare card rebates are available, if you do not have a medicare card, please contact Clinic 66 for further information and an accurate quote.
Complications
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Complications are rare but include bleeding, infection and need for further surgery
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Our nurses and doctors can provide you with more information about risks and complications
Complications
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Complications are rare but there is a chance that the medical procedure will be incomplete or unsuccessful, and will need a surgical procedure to complete the termination
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Our nurses and doctors can provide you with more information about risks and complications