Medical Abortion (pregnancy termination with the Abortion Pill)
Medical termination is sometimes called the "Abortion pill" or "non-surgical abortion", because we use medication rather than surgery to terminate the pregnancy.
Medical abortion is a safe and generally effective method for terminating early stage pregnancies between 5-9 weeks gestation (63 days).
Medical abortion is a two-step process
The first stage involves taking a tablet which blocks the hormone necessary for the pregnancy to continue. This is followed by a second medication taken 24-48 hours later, which causes the uterus to contract and the pregnancy to be expelled.
Timing
Can be taken up to 9 weeks (63 days) gestation. We use ultrasound to check gestation and location of the pregnancy.
Cost
Please call the Clinic for an accurate quote.
If you hold valid Medicare card, rebates are available.
Medical abortion within 9 weeks gestation is a low-risk, non-surgical procedure with a high 98% success rate.
No Medicare?
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MS2 step medical abortion medication is heavily subsidised by the Australian PBS system so medical termination is unfortunately much more expensive for non-medicare holders.
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If you do not have a Medicare card, please contact us to discuss pricing (if you have travel health insurance, it may cover you).
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Reciprocal Medicare?
Please check that your Reciprocal Medicare card is valid, as this will affect the cost of both your consultation and the medication.
We can also provide Medical Abortion by tele-medicine (ie, online video/phone). It is a safe, effective, accessible & convenient alternative if you are unable to come to the clinic. But its not without risk or discomfort. If you can get to the Clinic, it is a quicker, easier and more economical option. We recommend you come to the clinic in person if possible.
What to
expect
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You will be given two sets of medications which together, cause effects similar to a miscarriage.
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The first set of medications (Mifepristone) are taken at the clinic or at home and second set of medications (Misoprostol) taken at home 24-48 hours later
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You can take the second step (misoprostol) within a 24 hour window timed to fit in around work or other commitments. The cramping and bleeding will usually start within 1 hour of taking the medication and the cramps can be strong initially. You should plan to rest at home for at least 3-6 hours after taking the misoprostol. You may need to take a day of work if the cramping is prolonged, we can provide a medical certificate if needed.
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You should expect bleeding and cramping (ranging from mild to severe) which can last up to 3 weeks
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A follow up visit is required 2-3 weeks later to assess completion of the abortion. Your doctor will discuss with you the best way of arranging follow up. Follow up appointments can be arranged in person at the clinic or via telehealth.
Support & Recovery
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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.
Medical abortions can be undertaken completely in the privacy of your own home. - we call this a 'tele-abortion'. Click here to find out more >>>
Side effects & complications
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Bleeding and cramping as described in 'what to expect'.
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Nausea and vomiting, Fever and chills are common side effects of misoprostol (the second step).
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Complications are rare but there is a chance that the medical abortion will be unsuccessful ( approx 2%) requiring a surgical procedure.
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Surgical procedures (D&C or STOP) are not included in the cost of the medical abortion and will incur an additional private fee.
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Our nurses and doctors can provide you with more information about risks and complications.
How to prepare for the day
Please have something light to eat and a few glasses of water before the appointment and aim to have a semi-full bladder for the appointment...
Medical Abortion FAQ's
Is medical abortion legal?
Do I need a referral?
What happens beyond 9 weeks?
Is it safe? Will it hurt?
These and more abortion FAQ's answered...
More articles, info, resources
Is abortion legal in Australia?
Safe spaces in NSW
What is the abortion pill - aka medical termination?
Abortion - Day of Action
Check out our Blog...