Abortion (Termination of pregnancy)

We offer a comprehensive TOP service. We aim to create an emotionally caring, private and confidential environment as this can be an emotionally traumatic experience. Counselling forms an integral part of our service - the counselling is informative, non-directive and according to the needs of the client. All information is kept strictly confidential!

Termination of pregnancy (TOP) is a term to describe abortion. Abortions in South-Africa were legalized in 1997. Women can go to any doctor, hospital or clinic to ask for an abortion. Trained medical personnel at approved clinics and hospitals like Reproductive Choices Clinic can perform TOP.  

We perform surgical and medical abortions at our clinic.

Medical Abortions  

What is a medical abortion abortion?

Medical abortion is when specific medication is administered to women for termination of pregnancy. We use the French Abortion Pills in our clinic. This specific medication is approved by the South African Medicines Control Council and must be taken strictly as prescribed.  

 When can a woman have a medical abortion?

 A woman can have a medical abortion as soon as her pregnancy has been confirmed. Medical abortions are only effective within the first 56 days of a woman’s pregnancy. This implies 56 days since the first day of her last menstrual period. The woman should be willing to have a surgical abortion if the medical abortion does not work. The women should be willing to return to the clinic 14 to 21 days later for a follow-up visit. 

How effective and safe is a medical abortion?

Medical abortion is effective in 95% of cases. When the abortion is not complete, the surgical procedure is performed at the follow-up appointment free of charge. Having a medical or surgical abortion will not affect a women’s chance of having a baby in future and is 100% safe. 

How does medical abortion work?

Two sets of medication is administered to terminate the pregnancy. The first medication is given orally to the women at the clinic and will weaken the attachment of the pregnancy to the womb. The second medication is taken 36 to 48 hours later at home. The second set of medication causes the womb to contract and bleed. This expels the pregnancy.  

When can a woman NOT have a medical abortion? 

A women cannot have a medical abortion if one of the following is present: 

•   An entopic pregnancy is suspected (a pregnancy outside the womb) 
•   Her adrenal glands does not function normally 
•   If she is taking long term corticosteroid medication. i.e. for asthma or blood thinning      medication 
•   She has a history of a bleeding disorder 
•   She has severe and uncontrolled asthma 
•   She has porphyria 
•   She has an intra-uterine device in her womb 
•   She has severe cardiovascular problems 
•   She has severe high or low blood pressure 
•   She cannot return to the clinic for her two week follow-up visit 
•   She cannot go to a clinic or hospital in case of emergency 
•   She has severe anaemia 

VERY IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER ONCE A MEDICAL ABORTION IS STARTED, IT NEEDS TO BE COMPLETED BECAUSE OF DAMAGE TO THE FOETUS. BOTH SETS OF MEDICATION, THEREFORE, NEED TO BE TAKEN CORRECTLY

Both the medical and surgical abortion is appointment based and includes a counselling session beforehand, a sonar and a two week follow-up appointment after the procedure. Partners or significant others for support are welcome to accompany the woman.

Surgical Abortions 

Terminations are performed between 6 and 18 weeks of pregnancy.  

The Procedure

Our doctors have appropriate training and experience. Sedation as well as local anaesthesia is administered and we advise patients not to eat a big meal 3-4 hours prior to the time of the procedure. The client can bring her partner/friend/family member to accompany her. To ensure quality care, prepare yourself to spend about 1-2 hours at the clinic. The procedure itself will only take about 15 minutes, but we need enough time to take an accurate medical history, do some tests, e.g. sonar. 

We use the latest vacuum aspiration method, which has been used in Europe for many years. This is considered to be a very safe and low risk method and does not affect the patient"s future fertility in any physical manner.

Between 12 to 18 weeks of pregnancy, the aspirotomy technique is used. We allow enough time to rest comfortably before leaving the clinic. 

Pre-operative Advice 

You can have a light meal before the appointment. Coffee or tea is provided after the procedure. Wear comfortable clothing, preferably two-piece, loose fitting outfit, socks, full panties and a sweater. We provide a sanitary pad. Full payment is required on the day of the procedure. Cash, credit or debit cards are accepted. We DO NOT contract to any medical aid. We can provide a specified account which you can then submit to the medical aid claims department after procedure has been paid in full. Counselling services are also offered to the partners or parents. Post-abortion counselling is available to all our clients should they require further support. 

PRICES 

Can I wear a tampon 
Tampons can increase the risk of infection and it is therefore not recommended. (usage can be resumed 2 to 3 weeks after checkup)

When can I have sex after the abortion 
You are not allowed to have sex after the termination as it can increase your change of getting an infection.(sexual activity can be resumed after the checkup 2 to 3 weeks after procedure)

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