Frequently Asked Questions
Listed below are some questions we are frequently asked.
Emotional Aspects
What are the psychological effects of having a termination of pregnancy?
Studies have shown that, for the majority of women, there are no negative psychological outcomes from having a termination of pregnancy. There may be some feelings of sadness, relief or guilt - normal grief responses - which are experienced without great impact on the woman's on-going psychological wellbeing. For some women, the termination may trigger emotions and reactions from issues that were present prior to the pregnancy. For example, the termination may bring up feelings of grief from a previous significant loss, or of childhood issues the woman experienced relating to grief, loss or abandonment.
What emotions can I expect to feel after the operation?
For a couple of weeks, hormone levels will continue to decline, but remain in the body. Therefore some women feel a bit up and down during this time. Other emotions experienced may include grief, sadness, regret, and guilt, however the most common feeling experienced is relief.
Who can my partner talk to?
Where partners are involved, it can be a difficult time for them too. As ultimately it is the woman's choice regarding her decision to continue or terminate a pregnancy, many men feel isolated and left out - feeling they have no control over what happens regarding the pregnancy. It is important that men have someone to talk to as well. Preterm also offers counselling for men - either with their partner, or separately where appropriate.
Why doesn't my partner understand what I'm going through?
For the male partner, although they are involved in the pregnancy, they cannot possibly know what it is like for you and what is happening to your body, because it will not happen to them. Some men are very understanding and supportive, but ultimately may find it hard to fully understand what you are going through. Hormones also impact on your emotions, so you may have a lot of feelings that may not seem to fit with how you usually respond to stressful situations. Therefore your partner may again find it more difficult to understand what you are going through.
Everyone else seems to know what's best for me - how can I decide?
Many women feel pressured by others when faced with an unplanned pregnancy. For example, advice from friends, parents, partners etc may all impact on your decision-making process. Counselling can help you have the space you need to make your own decision.
Practical aspects
Will the procedure hurt? How will I feel physically?
Most women choose to have a termination of pregnancy under anaesthetic or sedation, which greatly reduces any discomfort felt during the procedure. Under General Anaesthetic, you are unconscious, so you won't feel anything during the procedure. Under Intravenous Sedation (twilight sleep), most women feel like they are asleep and don't remember the procedure. Some women are aware of what is going on, but are not fully conscious. Under Local Anaesthetic, you are awake, and the cervix is numbed. Most women feel a little discomfort, like when having a Pap smear. For some women, the procedure under Local Anaesthetic is a little more uncomfortable. Nitrous oxide ('happy gas')/oxygen mix is available to help you relax. After the procedure some women feel a little bit nauseated, or may have some period like cramping.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure itself takes approximately 10-15 minutes. However, with assessment and recovery time, depending on the type of anaesthetic, you can expect to be in the clinic from 2-4 hours.
How much does it cost?
Costs depend on the type of anaesthetic, how many weeks pregnant you are, and your financial situation. Women with a pension card, student card or health care card are given a reduced rate, as are women with private health insurance. For a breakdown of prices, please phone Preterm.
Do I need a referral from a doctor?
No. By all means, if you have seen a doctor, bring your referral letter, however it is not essential.
How many weeks pregnant do I need to be?
You need to be at least six weeks pregnant. This is worked out from the first day of your last normal period, not from when you think you may have conceived.
When is Preterm open?
Preterm operates on Tuesday through to Saturday. Appointments are made from 7.30am to 6.00pm Monday to Friday, and Saturday 7.30am to 3.30pm.
How do I make an appointment?
An appointment is made by phoning the clinic or by dropping in to the clinic. When making the appointment, the counsellor will ask some medical details, and work out which type of anaesthetic you would like to have, and how many weeks pregnant you are. Appointments can take 5 -10 minutes to make, so there can be some waiting at times on the phones.
What if I don't know how pregnant I am?
If you don't know how far pregnant you are, you can come in to Preterm for an assessment, or go to your local doctor for a referral to have an ultrasound, which gives a more accurate measure of the pregnancy gestation.
Will I be able to have children in the future if I wish to?
There is no medical evidence to show that having a termination of pregnancy of itself will effect your ability to have children in the future. Most women, when ready, are able to have children. In fact, it is possible to fall pregnant soon after a termination, so continued contraception is advisable. Preterm places a strong importance on post-termination care to help avoid any complications. We will give you information sheets about any possible problems to look out for, and encourage you to contact us or your local doctor if you have any concerns.
I don't live in NSW. Can I have a termination?
Yes. Exactly the same criteria applies for anyone who lives in NSW. We can help you with information about nearby accommodation if required. If it is possible, have a friend/partner accompany you for the day, especially if you are having a general anaesthetic or intravenous sedation.
I am not an Australian citizen. Can I have a termination of pregnancy?
Yes. The same criteria applies for anyone who lives in NSW, except for the payment options. Payment for the procedure is 'upfront'. Under some circumstances, a rebate applies from your private health care fund. Please contact Preterm for more information. An interpreter can be provided at no cost to you (but this must be organised in advance of the day of the termination).