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Deciding to have an abortion

An abortion is a very safe procedure with a low risk of complications. 

Some people may be sure they want to have an abortion. Others may find it more difficult to make a decision.

The decision to have an abortion is yours alone. But you should discuss your options with a healthcare professional.

Where to get support

Call My Options, our free unplanned pregnancy support service, on freephone 1800 828 010.

From outside the Republic of Ireland call 00 353 59 916 5066.

Unbiased information and support is also available from:

  • some GPs that provide abortion services (call the My Options team for information on which GPs or doctors offer these services in your local area)
  • family planning clinics
  • women's health clinics

You may also want to speak to your partner, friends or family. But you do not need to discuss it with anyone else and they do not have a say in the final decision.

When you can have an abortion

Under 18 years

If you are under 18 years old, you are encouraged to involve your parents or another supportive adult.

If you are over 16 years old and you choose not to involve an adult, a doctor can still offer you an abortion.

But this is only if they are confident that you understand the information and you can give consent. This is so that they know that you can make your own decision.

If you are aged 15 or under and you choose not to involve your parents or another supportive adult, a doctor can still offer you an abortion.

But only if:

Confidentiality

If you decide to have an abortion, you have the right for your information to remain confidential.

But your doctor must report to Tusla - The Child and Family Agency if:

  • you are under 15 and have had sex
  • you are aged 15 or 16 and having sex with someone who is at least 2 years older than you
  • you are under 17 and the doctor believes you are at risk of sexual abuse or harm
  • you are under 17 and the doctor believes you have been sexually abused or harmed

Individual circumstances

We understand that people ask for abortions for many different reasons.

If something has happened or there is something that your GP or doctor should be aware of, please let them know.

This could include if:

  • you have been a victim of rape
  • you are an asylum seeker
  • you are homeless

Your GP or doctor can provide you with the right kind of support and guidance that you need.

If you have been raped, the Rape Crisis Centre can provide you with free support and information. Freephone 1800 77 88 88 (Rape Crisis Centre).

Cost of an abortion

An abortion is free if you live in the Republic of Ireland and have a PPS number.

If you live outside the Republic of Ireland, you can have an abortion in the Republic of Ireland. But you will have to pay for it.

Where to go for an abortion

Page last reviewed: 28 October 2022
Next review due: 28 October 2025