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Abortion

If you are thinking of an abortion...

Article by : SpunOut.ie

Whatever the reason, many young women decide not to go ahead with pregnancy and choose to have an abortion. This is a serious decision in your life and should not be taken in a hurry. Abortion is a very emotional subject and it is very important that you get support and help if you decide to have one.

Consider all your options: 

  • You should talk to someone you trust.
  • If you are under 16, your parents need to be involved. Over 16s can refer to Positive Options - a directory of organisations that offer advice and counselling to women who find themselves with an unexpected pregnancy.

The first reaction is to panic:

  • Don't panic: take time to talk to someone who can be there for you, maybe a family member or close friend.
  • Remember that abortion is not the answer for everyone.

Abortion is not legal in Ireland, but the government’s Referendum on Abortion Legislation in 1992 decided that a woman’s right to travel for abortion and information on abortion is now ensured. In Northern Ireland, abortion is only allowed under strict and very limited conditions. Abortion is legal in the UK.

  • You will have to travel to the UK or another country where abortion is legal. 
  • You must sign a form consenting to the abortion.
  • Most clinics won’t operate after 22 weeks of pregnancy.

If you decide to have an abortion:

  • Make all the arrangements for the operation before you travel abroad. Find out how much time you'll need to be in the other country and whether you'll need to organise somewhere to stay.
  • The cost of an abortion depends on the clinic and the method used.
  • After an abortion you might have cramps (like period pains). You will bleed for anything from one to three weeks. 
  • Don’t use tampons or have sex until you’ve had a check-up six weeks after the operation. This will help prevent any infections. This check-up is very important.
  • It’s very important to get counselling after the abortion. The Irish Family Planning Association offers free counselling for women who have had an abortion.

See the help section for supportive information and contacts details of support organisations.

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