Preparing your questions beforehand can help you understand the options that may be available to you, what the procedure may involve, potential risks and what to expect during recovery. Your doctor can then provide information and advice based on your individual circumstances.
Which Abortion Method May Be Suitable for Me?
Abortion generally involves either a medical or surgical method. Ask your doctor which abortion methods are available at your stage of pregnancy and which may be medically suitable for you.
Your doctor can explain which method may be considered in your circumstances and what each option involves. Questions you may want to ask include:
- How do you determine which abortion method may be suitable for me?
- What does each available method involve?
- How long does the process or procedure take?
- What should I expect with each option?
- Are there circumstances that could make one method unsuitable for me?
How Should I Prepare Before the Abortion?
Ask your doctor what you need to do before the abortion, as the instructions can differ according to the planned method and your own medical history. You will need to share relevant information about your health with your doctor as you ask these questions.
- What consultations or counselling will I need beforehand?
- When can the abortion take place?
- Will I need an ultrasound or other tests?
- Should I avoid food, drinks or any medication?
- Will I need someone to take me home?
What Will Happen During the Abortion Itself?
Once an abortion method has been identified, ask your doctor to explain how it will be carried out and what you are likely to experience. This is particularly important because some parts of the process may take place at the clinic, while others may take place at home.
Questions you may want to ask include:
- What are the main steps involved in the recommended method?
- Which parts of the process will take place at the clinic and which will take place at home?
- How long will the abortion take?
- How long should I expect to remain at the clinic?
- What might I feel during the abortion and how will pain be managed?
- If I undergo a surgical abortion, will I receive anaesthesia or sedation?
- What will happen immediately afterwards?
What Are the Possible Risks and Side Effects?
As with any medical treatment or procedure, it is important to understand potential risks as well as expected effects.
Ask your doctor to explain which symptoms can normally occur during recovery and which could indicate a complication. This distinction can be particularly useful once you return home.
Questions may include:
- What bleeding, cramping or other side effects should I expect?
- How long should these effects usually last?
- Which symptoms should prompt me to contact the clinic?
- Which warning signs require urgent medical attention?
- Where should I seek help outside clinic hours?
Will an Abortion Affect My Future Fertility?
An abortion that proceeds without complications does not usually affect your chances of becoming pregnant in the future. However, for your own peace of mind, you can ask your doctor whether the recommended method or any risks relevant to your health could have implications for future pregnancy.
Because fertility can return soon after an abortion, this discussion can also help you plan for another pregnancy or choose contraception if you do not wish to become pregnant again immediately.
Questions you may want to ask include:
- Is the recommended abortion method expected to affect my future fertility?
- Are there any complications that could affect my ability to become pregnant?
- How soon can fertility return after the abortion?
- When would it be medically appropriate to try for another pregnancy?
- What contraceptive options could I consider if I do not want to become pregnant again soon?
What Follow-Up Care Will I Need?
Before the procedure, find out whether you will need a follow-up appointment and what it will involve.
Depending on your circumstances, follow-up care may be used to assess your recovery or address symptoms and concerns. Ask when you should return, whether any further tests may be needed and whom you should contact if you have questions before the scheduled follow-up.
Keep any aftercare instructions provided by the clinic somewhere easily accessible once you return home.
Get Clearer Guidance About Your Abortion Options With Dr Jen Shek Wei
Considering an abortion can raise practical and medical questions, from understanding the available options to knowing what to expect during recovery. Preparing your questions beforehand can help you have a more focused discussion with your doctor and better understand the information provided.
At SWJEN Clinic for Women, you can discuss your pregnancy and any questions or concerns with Dr Jen Shek Wei, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist. With over 40 years of experience in women's health, Dr Jen takes an individualised approach to care, giving patients the opportunity to discuss sensitive concerns and receive medical guidance based on their circumstances.
If you are considering an abortion and would like to speak with a doctor about your circumstances and the options available to you, book an appointment with us.
