There are many myths about pregnancy termination. Here are some of the most common that we have heard, along with the facts.

See Frequently Asked Questions also, which answers the most common questions we receive about termination.

Myth
If I use contraception properly, I won't get pregnant.

Fact
Although unplanned pregnancies can occur from not using or misusing contraception, many women also get pregnant because the contraception they were using failed, or they were not fully informed on the correct use of their chosen contraception. No contraception is 100% effective.

Myth
If I have more than one termination, I will not be able to have children in the future.

Fact
There is no medical reason why having more than one termination will mean you cannot have children in the future.

Myth
The incidence of breast cancer is higher in women who have had a termination.

Fact
This assumption has never been substantiated clinically in research. There is no medical proof that having a termination will increase the risk of developing breast cancer. This myth is often put forward by 'pro-life' groups.

Myth
I will be psychologically damaged if I have a termination.

Fact
For most women there is no on-going psychological damage from having a termination. The range of emotions experienced includes grief, sadness and sometimes guilt. The most common emotion experienced is relief.

Myth
The chances of complications from a termination are very high.

Fact
Termination of pregnancy is a very simple procedure if performed by qualified staff in an appropriate setting. The chance of complications is low - approximately 1%. These complications are generally easily treated, and do not have a permanent physical effect. Termination of pregnancy is the most commonly performed surgical procedure in Australia.

Myth
If I am under 16 years of age, I cannot have a termination without my parent's/guardian's consent.

Fact
From 14 years of age, a termination can be performed without a parent's consent.

Myth
The doctors aren't trained in performing a termination - any doctor can perform the procedure.

Fact
In licensed premises, doctors are trained in performing the termination. Preterm has been established for 25 years, and specialists in the procedure have trained the operating doctors. Preterm exceeds the strict standards to comply with our Accreditation status through the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards and licensing requirements.

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