Surgical Abortions - Children By Choice

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Surgical abortions

SUMMARY

A surgical abortion is a safe and common procedure when carried out by trained health professionals. The procedure itself is quick, but your appointment will take longer to allow for preparation, recovery and support. This guide explains each step so you know what to expect and how to prepare.

If you are unsure where to start or need support at any stage, our counsellors can help.

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Before arriving at the clinic

Shower before your appointment and remove jewellery and make-up
Most people will be asked not to eat or drink for about six hours beforehand
A support person can usually come into the clinic with you, but may not be able to stay during the procedure
After the procedure, your support person will be contacted to collect you and take you home safely

Administration

On arrival, you will register with your details and provide your support person’s contact number
You must have a support person to collect you before leaving; it is not safe to leave alone after an anaesthetic
In private clinics, payment is usually required before the procedure; concessions may be available for concession or healthcare card holders
Bring your Medicare card so eligible costs can be billed to Medicare
You may need pre-operative blood tests to check blood group and haemoglobin level
Bring photo ID such as a driver’s licence or birth certificate

Counselling on the day

Some services provide a brief counselling or intake conversation on the day
This usually involves confirming informed consent, recording your history and answering questions
If you want more time to talk through your decision, it is best to arrange this before the procedure
Free, confidential counselling is available across Queensland

Preparation for surgery

You will be asked to change into a surgical gown; your clothes are stored safely
Bring socks or a cardigan to stay comfortable in air-conditioned clinics
Many people bring headphones, music or something to read while waiting

Consultation with the doctor

The doctor will review your medical history and explain the procedure
You will be asked to sign a consent form, confirming you understand the process and risks
An ultrasound (abdominal or transvaginal) may be done to confirm gestation and rule out ectopic pregnancy
This is a good time to ask questions or discuss preferences

Anaesthetic choice

All surgical abortions are performed with anaesthetic; the exact method varies by service and your clinical needs.

Common options:

Local anaesthetic: numbs the cervix (less common)
Twilight sedation with local anaesthetic: most common; you are drowsy and relaxed
General anaesthetic: you are fully asleep; slightly higher risks but safe for most people

Your doctor and anaesthetist will recommend the best option based on your health, gestation and preferences.

Surgery

For pregnancies up to 14 weeks, gentle suction is used to remove the contents of the uterus (vacuum aspiration)
The procedure itself typically takes under 10 minutes; you will spend 3–4 hours at the clinic including preparation and recovery
After 14 weeks, a procedure called dilation and evacuation (D&E) may be used; the cervix is dilated more widely and multiple appointments may be required
Complications are rare; you will be monitored in recovery and usually offered food or drink before going home

Leaving the clinic

Most people leave within a few hours once nurses confirm it is safe
You must have someone to take you home; do not drive for 24 hours after an anaesthetic
Services provide an after-hours contact number in case you have concerns once home

Post-operative care

Bleeding and cramping are common afterwards; spotting may last up to two weeks
Paracetamol usually helps manage pain; follow the clinic’s pain relief advice
To reduce infection risk for two weeks, avoid: tampons, sex, swimming and strenuous exercise
Many services provide antibiotics; take them as directed
Seek medical help if you have fever, heavy bleeding, severe pain or unusual discharge
A follow-up check is usually recommended 1–2 weeks later, either at the clinic or with your GP

Pre-appointment checklist

Medicare, concession or healthcare card (if you have one)
Photo ID
Payment for the procedure (if required)
Any pre-operative test results requested by the clinic
Thick sanitary pads and a fresh pair of underwear
Contact details for your regular doctor
Any medications you take
Someone to pick you up from the clinic
Confirmed your fasting instructions with the clinic
Phone and charger; something to keep you comfortable while waiting

What are the risks?

Surgical abortion is very safe when performed by trained clinicians. As with any medical procedure, risks can include:

Retained tissue and bleeding: occasionally the uterus is not fully emptied, causing heavier bleeding and cramping; further treatment may be needed
Infection: uncommon and usually treated with antibiotics; seek help if you have fever, abdominal pain or unusual discharge
Other rare risks: injury to the cervix or uterus, incomplete procedure

There are no known long-term effects on future fertility from having either a medication or surgical abortion. If you are concerned about side effects or recovery, speak with your GP or the clinic.

Costs and access in Queensland

Fees vary by gestation, anaesthetic and provider type
Public hospitals may provide care at no cost for eligible Medicare card holders, although availability varies by location
Private clinics often provide same-day testing and care, and generally cost more

For detailed pricing and funding options

To check public pathways in your area:
Queensland Government – Termination of pregnancy

Find a Health Service

Where to get help

If you need information, decision-making support or help navigating services, Children by Choice can support you before and after a surgical abortion.