Unplanned Pregnancy
At The Butterfly Clinic, we believe in the right to choose. We understand that decisions surrounding unplanned pregnancies are deeply personal and can be complex, and we are here to provide a compassionate and nonjudgmental environment for individuals seeking support. We respect your autonomy, dignity, and the importance of having control over your own body and future.
There are numerous avenues for women experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, including parenting, adoption, and abortion, and The Butterfly Clinic can provide relevant resources, support, and contacts for decision-making. Should you desire an abortion, our experienced, compassionate team provides medical termination services.
Medical Abortion also known as
Medical Termination
Medical termination of pregnancy, also known as a medical abortion, is a non-surgical procedure that ceases a pregnancy through two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol. At The Butterfly Clinic, we prescribe the MS-2 Step, and the medications are provided in a single package with two boxes.
Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, which is essential for maintaining a pregnancy. Inhibiting progesterone causes the lining of the uterus to thin, preventing the continued development of the pregnancy. Misoprostol causes uterine contractions, leading to the expulsion of the pregnancy tissue. It helps to empty the uterus and complete the abortion process.
Medical Termination
Eligibility
Medical abortions can only be prescribed to women who are under 9 weeks of pregnancy. Surgical abortion options are available in Australia for women otherwise.
If you are over 16 years old but under 18 years, we can prescribe a medical abortion if we believe you have a clear understanding of the medical abortion processes and are making an informed, mature decision. If you are under 16 and are seeking a medical abortion, we will require parental permission before we prescribe a medical abortion.
The following conditions may make you ineligible for a medical abortion, and our team at The Butterfly Clinic can discuss other options with you:
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Bleeding-related conditions
- High blood pressure
- Adrenal failure
- Allergies to mifepristone or misoprostol
- Long-term consumption of blood-thinning or steroid medications
Before Your Medical Termination
It’s important to be well-prepared for your medical termination. If you have just found out you are pregnant and haven’t yet had any tests, please make a usual 30 minute appointment to discuss your options and have all necessary tests arranged. We will then arrange a 1 hour appointment for the medical termination of pregnancy once the tests have been performed.
If you have already seen another doctor for your initial tests, you may book directly for a 1 hour appointment for the medical termination of pregnancy. You will need to send us a copy of your ultrasound confirming an intrauterine pregnancy, a blood test including haemoglobin and a recent STI test. These results will be reviewed by the doctor and then your appointment can be confirmed.
Bring a list of medications you are consuming and relevant details about any pre-existing medical conditions to your appointment at The Butterfly Clinic. Notify your doctor of any long-lasting contraceptive options you are using; IUDs must be removed before the procedure. Let your doctor know if you think you might have an STI, as these must be treated before a medical abortion.
Before your medical termination, it is important that you book a few days off work and consider the care of any children. You may also wish to organise for a close family member or friend to stay with you as you undergo the procedure. Make sure you are located close to a hospital in case any complications arise.
Medical Termination
Your Appointment
We want you to have a strong understanding of what will happen at your medical termination appointment to help you feel comfortable in our care.
- The appointment will commence with a review of your medical history to ensure you do not have any medical conditions that would interfere with a medical abortion.
- An ultrasound will then be conducted to ensure you are less than 9 weeks pregnant, as medical abortions are only suitable for this timeframe.
- You will have the opportunity to ask any questions regarding the procedure.
- Any IUDs will be removed, and STIs screening or treatment will be conducted if required.
- You will be provided with the abortion medications if you would still like to go ahead with the procedure. Pain relief medications will also be provided.
The Medications
Firstly, orally take (with water) the singular mifepristone tablet, located in the small green box. You may wish to consume this tablet at your Butterfly Clinic appointment, or in your home. After taking this medication, you may experience light bleeding.
After 24 to 48 hours, take the four misoprostol tablets, located in the purple box. These tablets should be placed between your cheek and gum and left to dissolve for 30 minutes. After this time, you can swallow any medication remnants with water.
Further information regarding how to take abortion medications will be provided in your appointment at The Butterfly Clinic, and instructions are also contained in your medication package. Please ask any questions or concerns at your appointment; our compassionate, understanding team is here to support you.
What happens next
After the Medications
Within a few hours of taking misoprostol, you can expect to experience cramping and bleeding as the uterus contracts to expel the pregnancy tissue. The cramping can range from mild to intense, similar to menstrual cramps.
As the contractions continue, you may pass clots and tissue. This can vary in size and may resemble a heavy period. The process of passing the pregnancy tissue can vary from a few hours to several days. Light bleeding may ensue for approximately two weeks after your abortion.
What to expect
Post Abortion
Post-abortion check-ups will be organised to ensure that the termination was successful, monitor your recovery, and address any concerns or complications that may arise. Complications occur in 2-5% of medical abortions, and further treatment may be required.
It’s normal to experience a range of emotions following an abortion. It can be helpful to seek emotional support from trusted individuals, support groups, or counselling services. The Butterfly Clinic can recommend relevant services to support your wellbeing and holistic recovery.
For support during your unplanned pregnancy, or to book a medical termination appointment, contact The Butterfly Clinic for compassionate care and empathetic guidance.
Embrace Your Journey
Empower yourself on your unique women's health journey, and let our compassionate specialists be your trusted allies in supporting your wellbeing. Schedule an appointment today.