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Types of abortion

There are 2 types of abortion methods:

Both are free. You may have a choice between a surgical or medical abortion, but this is not always possible.

If you are under 9 weeks pregnant, your GP or doctor will advise you to have a medical abortion.

Medical abortion

A medical abortion involves taking 2 medicines to end the pregnancy. You will not need surgery or an anaesthetic.

No one will know about your abortion. We will not tell your own GP or any other doctors without your consent.

What happens during a medical abortion

Surgical abortion

A surgical abortion involves having surgery to end a pregnancy.

All surgical abortions happen in a hospital. You will be booked into hospital as a day case.

You will not normally have a surgical abortion if you are under 9 weeks pregnant. But your doctor can advise it in special circumstances depending on your medical history.

What happens during a surgical abortion

Buying abortion pills online

It's against the law to buy abortion pills online.

Buying abortion pills online could be harmful. It is difficult to know if the pills bought online are genuine. Customs may also seize and confiscate them.

Before doing anything, freephone our My Options support service on 1800 828 010. We can help you find suitable care for free and in confidence.

My Options

Urgent advice: Contact your GP urgently if:

  • you have taken an abortion pill without medical supervision

Bring with you any information and the packaging that came with the pills. This will help your GP or doctor to diagnose your problem and treat you.

Page last reviewed: 14 August 2025
Next review due: 14 August 2028