Termination of pregnancy is a right. It is a choice. And it is healthcare.
Reproductive healthcare should always begin with listening.
Every person has their own circumstances, values, relationships, hopes and plans for the future. When it comes to pregnancy, there is no single experience, and there is no single decision that is right for everyone.
For some, pregnancy is something they have been hoping for. For others, it may come as a surprise, at a time that does not feel right. And for some, continuing a pregnancy simply isn't the right choice for them.
Whatever brings someone to a conversation about their pregnancy options, they deserve to be met with compassion, respect and evidence based medical care.
Understanding your options
If you are considering a termination of pregnancy, understanding what is available can help you make an informed decision that feels right for you and your circumstances.
There are two main options: medical termination and surgical termination. Both are established, effective methods of ending a pregnancy, and the most appropriate option will depend on factors such as how far along the pregnancy is, your medical history and your personal preferences.
Medical termination
Medical termination involves taking prescribed medication to end a pregnancy. In Australia, it is generally available up to nine weeks of pregnancy, subject to an individual medical assessment.
The process uses two medications, mifepristone and misoprostol, which work together to end the pregnancy and help the uterus expel the pregnancy tissue.
For many people, medical termination offers the option of managing the process at home, with appropriate medical guidance and support. It involves cramping and bleeding, which can be similar to or heavier than a menstrual period, and follow up is important to confirm the termination is complete.
Surgical termination
Surgical termination is a procedure performed by a trained healthcare professional, usually using gentle suction to remove the pregnancy tissue.
It is performed in an appropriate clinical setting, with pain relief and sedation options depending on the procedure and service. Surgical termination may be suitable at different stages of pregnancy, depending on the circumstances.
Some people prefer the predictability of a procedure in a clinical setting, while others prefer a medication based approach.
Neither option is inherently the right choice for everyone. What matters is having accurate information, the opportunity to ask questions and access to care that considers your individual needs.
Care without judgement
Every pregnancy comes with its own circumstances. You may know what feels right for you, feel uncertain about your options, or experience a mix of emotions. There is no right or wrong way to feel.
Sometimes, you may want to talk through your options. Other times, you may simply need a safe space to ask questions and understand what is available to you, without pressure or judgement.
We believe these conversations should be guided by listening, compassion and clear, balanced information. Our role is not to influence your decision, but to support you in making an informed choice that feels right for your circumstances.
At Next Practice Prahran, appointments for medical termination are available with selected GPs: Dr Kieran Hadler, Dr Nisha Iyer and Dr Lauren Healy.
Your appointment may include discussing your pregnancy options, assessing your suitability for medical termination, explaining what to expect and arranging appropriate follow up care. If medical termination is not the most suitable option, we can also discuss alternative pathways and referral options.
You do not need to have everything figured out before making an appointment. You are welcome to ask questions, take the time you need and talk through your options at your own pace.
Reproductive healthcare is healthcare
There is no one way to feel about a pregnancy or a termination. Experiences can be straightforward, complex or somewhere in between. What someone needs emotionally may be different from what someone else needs, and that deserves to be respected.
Access to reproductive healthcare means having the information, support and medical care to make decisions about your own body and future.
It means being able to ask questions without shame, explore your options without pressure and receive care that recognises you as a whole person.
If you are navigating a pregnancy and would like to understand your options, you are welcome to make an appointment with us at Next Practice Prahran.
We will listen, talk through the options available to you and help you understand the next steps, at your own pace.
