1. Will it hurt?

What women feel during an abortion varies a lot. Many women say the abortion procedure is uncomfortable rather than painful. Most women have some strong period-like cramps that ease off a short time after the abortion. We offer medications that help reduce pain and anxiety.

2. Will this affect future pregnancies?

Unless there is an extremely rare complication from the procedure, the abortion will have no effect on future pregnancies in any way. In fact, you are fertile again right after an abortion and it is possible to get pregnant again right away. We can help you decide about birth control options when you are here.

3. How much bleeding will I have?

The amount of bleeding afterwards varies from none to something like a period. Often it is like the end of a period, stopping and starting again, lasting from a day or two to several weeks. Please see our After your abortion page on how to take care of yourself after the procedure.

4. How long will I be in the clinic?

Most women are in the clinic for two to three hours.

5. How much does it cost?

If you have BC medical coverage (MSP) then there is no charge. If you do not have BC medical coverage then the cost is $500. See our Fees page for more information.

6. Do I have to make an appointment?

Yes. You must make an appointment for an abortion because we need to have some information ahead of time and there are some things we need to tell you as well. See our Making an appointment page.

7. Do I need a referral from a doctor?

No, but we strongly encourage you to get your pregnancy confirmed at a walk-in clinic or at your doctor's office. If you do see a doctor about this pregnancy, please call before your procedure with the doctor/clinic name & telephone number or bring this information on the day of your appointment.

8. Can I drive myself?

For safety reasons, you are not allowed to drive for 24 hours after your procedure. You can drive here, but someone else will have to drive you home or we will not be able to do the procedure.

9. Should I do a pregnancy test afterwards?

NO! Because the pregnancy hormones leave the body slowly, a pregnancy test can still be positive weeks after an abortion has removed the pregnancy.

10. What is the difference between a medical and a surgical abortion?

This document explains the difference between these two types of abortion.