FAQ

Is the clinic accessible by public transport?

Yes, Choices South West is located about an eight minute walk from the Dunsborough bus stop, which is on bus route 815 and South West Coachlines’ route from Perth via Bunbury, Capel and Busselton. See the Public Transport Authority website and South West Coachlines to plan your journey.

What is an abortion?

A termination (historically known as an abortion) is a way of ending a pregnancy. There are two methods of termination; surgical and medical.

A surgical termination is a simple procedure using gentle suction to remove the pregnancy tissue from the uterus. It is performed under general anaesthetic at a specialised clinic or hospital by a qualified doctor. The procedure is commonly known as a D&C.

A medical termination is when medication is used to end a pregnancy. It provides an alternative to a surgical termination for women during the early weeks of pregnancy, ideally around 4-7 weeks. Medical terminations are only available at specialised clinics and hospitals and legally can only be done up to 9 weeks (63 day pregnancy).

I’ve decided to have a termination... what next?

If you live in Western Australia and decide to have a termination, you will need to obtain a referral from a doctor who will discuss the risks of continuing pregnancy and risks of a termination. If you don’t have a referral, speak to us. The doctor should also offer you a referral for counselling before and after a termination. It is up to you if you want to have counselling.

Do I need a referral?

Yes, preferable but we understand sometimes its hard to get one on time. If this is not possible please contact us on 08 9746 3300. Please complete the confidential online enquiry form.

How soon can I get an appointment?

Although we will occasionally have busy periods, we will be able to book you in for a consultation within a matter of days. Having a termination is time sensitive. If you are experiencing difficulty or time delay with your GP- get in touch.

A theatre day is held once every 2 weeks , depending on Anaesthetist and theatre staff availability. This is usually on a Wednesday.

You will be given the appropriate information at the time you make an appointment.

How much does it cost?

Fees differ depending on whether you require a medical or surgical termination, and if you have a valid Medicare card.

See the Fees page for a guide.

First and foremost, a woman’s access to services and support is our top priority. If you are concerned about affordability, please speak to us.

I’m under 16, do I need parental consent?

If you are under 16 years of age and still living at home, a parent, legal guardian or adult friend must be informed that you are considering a termination. While the parent or guardian must be given the opportunity to participate in the counselling and consultation process between you and the doctor, the final choice is yours. In special circumstances you can apply to the Children’s Court for an order to proceed with a termination without parental involvement.

[Family Planning Association of Western Australia (Inc) February 2012]

Is the procedure confidential?

All our procedures are completely confidential, as are any counselling appointments you attend at South West Women’s Health and Information Centre.

Is terminating a pregnancy legal?

Terminations are legal in Western Australia under 20 weeks of pregnancy if a woman has given informed consent and if the procedure is carried out by a qualified doctor.

At 20 weeks of pregnancy and beyond, two medical practitioners from a panel of six appointed by the Minister for Health, must agree that the pregnant woman or foetus has a severe medical condition that justifies a termination. For further information on the law as it differs state to state read here: https://www.aph.gov.au/about_parliament/parliamentary_departments/parliamentary_library/pubs/rp/rp9899/99rp01

Will there be protestors outside the clinic?

Fortunately, no. And there is a new law introduced to prevent protestors.

We are located within the Dunsborough Medical Centre that has GPs, nurses and admin staff working.  Your appointment and procedure is completely confidential so only the medical professionals will know the reason for your visit.

Your GP or Choices South West will need to establish your blood group [if you do not know it] by a blood test.

In the event of rhesus negative blood group, an anti D injection [into the muscle of the upper arm] is required within 72 hours of the surgical termination of pregnancy.

Refer to this link for more info on blood group types:

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/ConditionsAndTreatments/blood-groups

What are the risks involved?

A termination is considered to be a safe, low-risk procedure, particularly if done in early pregnancy (up to 12 weeks). In later pregnancies the risks rise, however they are still low.

There is usually some bleeding and it is quite common to have cramps (like period pain) for a short while afterwards, and painkillers can help. Some women feel tired or sick after the procedure so it’s advisable to plan to rest afterwards. If you are experiencing excessive bleeding or severe pain, contact us as soon as possible.

Infection is uncommon, especially if you follow instructions given to you by the doctor and hospital. These may include avoiding tampons, vaginal intercourse and baths for around two weeks after the procedure.

In some cases, further treatment (a procedure or dose of medication) may be required. There is also a small chance of damage to the uterus or cervix during a surgical termination. While still very small, this risk is greater if the procedure is performed after 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Is there a chance for the surgical termination to fail or be incomplete?

There is a small chance of retained tissue and continued pregnancy, however this is very rare. Our doctor will check the success of the procedure at a follow up appointment.

Will the procedure affect my fertility and future pregnancies?

There is no evidence to suggest that a termination has any effect on future fertility or future pregnancies. However, there are a small number of possible, but rare, complications involved with the procedure - the doctor will discuss these with you in more detail.

It is important to have a check up two weeks after the procedure to ensure you’re making a full recovery.

Which contraception is best for me?

There are a number of contraception options available for women.

The contraception that is right for you will be as individual as your circumstances. Our consulting doctor will discuss these with you and recommend an appropriate contraception option for you to consider.

For general advice and information on contraception, visit our contraception page to find a device that suits you.

Can an IUD be inserted during the procedure?

Yes, if you wish to have an IUD inserted for future birth control, we can do this after your surgical termination while you are asleep. Ask us - or your GP - for a prescription, and bring the device with you to the day surgery unit

Am I asleep when I have the surgical termination?

Yes you are. You will be given a General Anaesthetic, and can expect to be at the hospital for about 3-4 hours from start to finish.

After the procedure you may still be a little drowsy and you will need someone to drive you home. This is a requirement as it is also illegal to drive for 24 hours after a general anaesthetic.

Is a termination painful?

Surgical termination:

No, a surgical termination is not painful as you are under an anaesthetic during the procedure.

Once the anaesthetic wears off, you may or may not experience some mild discomfort, similar to menstrual cramps for a day or two. It’s a good idea to have some Panadol or Nurofen on hand if required. Note; some people cannot take anti-inflammatory medication so check with us first or the pharmacist. If your pain is not relieved by these simple measures and is worsening contact us.

Medical Termination:

The pain can vary, but generally having some Neurofen or Panadeine and a heat pack on hand will help with this.

How long does it take?

Please see our page on medical and surgical termination for details.

How will I feel?

Although a termination is a simple procedure, it is important that you know it is completely normal to feel more emotional than usual afterwards. It is normal to experience some grief after a stressful decision, even for partners. This shouldn’t last for long, if it persists see your doctor or contact us for access to counselling services.

We have partnered with South West Women’s Health and Information Centre to provide free counselling services to you so that you have access to any emotional support you may need before or after termination.

Do I need a follow-up examination?

It’s essential you have a follow-up with Choices South West or your regular GP two weeks after the procedure. This is to check the success of the procedure, to ensure you’re not experiencing complications and check your mood and general wellbeing. If travel is an issue, you can have the follow up with our nurse over the phone.

This is also a good time to discuss contraception with your doctor, to prevent future unplanned pregnancy.

When can I return to work?

Depending on your job you may be able to return to work the following day. If you have had surgery remember DO NOT drive a motor vehicle or operate machinery for 24 hrs. Do not sign any important documents and make any big decisions. Avoid alcohol also.

 If your work involves a lot of stretching or lifting we would recommend you wait three days before returning to work. We are able to provide you with a medical certificate for your employer if you require one.

When can I have sex again?

It is recommended that you do not have vaginal intercourse for two weeks after your termination. This is to avoid any infection or falling pregnant again straight away if you are not using any contraception.

When can I use tampons?

You will not be able to use tampons immediately after or for 7 days after the procedure. This is so we are able to monitor any bleeding and also to avoid infection.

How do I know if I am getting an infection ?

If you feel unwell or suspect symptoms of infection please contact us. Symptoms of infection include;

• increased vaginal discharge that is smelly

• loss of appetite, feeling nauseous.

• an increase in vaginal bleeding

• abdominal pain

• night sweats or fevers

Infection may present with one or many of these symptoms, get in contact with us immediately if you are concerned.

How soon can I exercise after termination?

Avoid any strenuous exercise for one week, like contact sports, jogging, horse riding and swimming. 

When should I start my contraception?

You can fall pregnant again after a termination even before your next period is due, so start contraception immediately. If you decide to use the pill, start it immediately after the operation and don’t wait for your next period, and use additional precautions for the first packet (one month) if you are having sex. And most importantly, remember that the use of condoms will protect you from sexually transmitted infections.

What counselling is available?

We’re here to give you non-judgemental counselling, and all the information you need to make the decision that is right for you.

We partner with South West Women’s Health and Information Centre to offer the opportunity to access free counselling before and after a termination.

The counselling offered is pro-choice and will help you explore all options and support you in whatever decision you make; whether to terminate or continue with the pregnancy and or adopt.

We can also do a GP mental health care plan if you need access to a psychologist.

I became pregnant because of a sexual assault or forced sex by my partner- can you help me?

Finding support after a sexual assault or being coerced into sex is important to help you get through what is a confusing and overwhelming time.

Here are some things you can do straight away:

• Ensure safety – if you are still in danger contact emergency services on 000 or try to get somewhere safe

• Talk to someone you trust such as family, friend, youth worker, teacher,  counsellor or doctor

• Medical support – access medical help as soon as possible. Get to a hospital or health care centre to seek care.

For more support visit https://au.reachout.com/articles/sexual-assault-support

Sexual assault support services

National sexual assault support

1800 RESPECT - www.1800respect.org.au

Provides confidential sexual assault and family and domestic violence counselling via phone and web chat. Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 

Phone: 1800 737 732