You may want to continue with the pregnancy and become a parent, adopt, foster or Whangai. To read more on adoption, Whangai or fostering please visit Adoption | Oranga Tamariki — Ministry for Children
We can help you. We can provide first and second trimester pregnancy care and order all the necessary tests and ultrasounds. If you decide to have an abortion we will assist you with this. If you choose to continue with the pregnancy we can help find you a midwife.
A early medical abortion can be done up to 10 weeks of pregnancy. The process is similar to having a natural miscarriage and most woman consider this to be a more gentle approach when compared with a surgical abortion.
This process involves taking two different types of pills. An early medical abortion can be done from the comfort of your own home and is a safe way to end a pregnancy
The initial tablet is called Mifepristone. This tablet stops your body from producing progesterone – the hormone needed for the pregnancy to continue growing. Some women may have no symptoms after taking mifepristone. Some may experience light period cramps and light bleeding. Both experiences are normal. Most women can continue with normal daily activities after taking mifepristone.
The second medication is called Misoprostol. Take this medication 24-72 hours after the first medication. The four misoprostal tablets are placed between your cheeks and gums. This medication dissolves slowly over an hour. There will be a chalky residue in your mouth at the end of this hour, this is normal, you will need to swallow the chalky residue with a glass of water.
Misoprostol causes contractions of the uterus and starts the bleeding process. Within 30 minutes to 6 hours you will experience period type symptoms with cramps and bleeding. This is your body expelling the pregnancy from your uterus, very similar to having a misscarriage. This is a good day to relax at home with a support person. Taking regular paracetamol and ibuprofen will help with the cramps.
Some people really struggle with making a decision. Seeking support from your partner, family or friends may be helpful. You can also access free counselling to discuss your feelings and options related to an unplanned pregnancy. The women’s health hub can help inform you of all your options, so that you can make an informed decision
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