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08 Van Riebeeck House Victoria Street,Germiston, GA 1400
073-729-4308
Two types of abortion are currently available:
Surgical abortion is a low-risk procedure most commonly used for first trimester (one to 28 weeks) abortion in South Africa. Known as suction aspiration or suction curette, it involves removing the lining and contents of the uterus (womb). A range of other surgical techniques are used for abortion later in pregnancy.
Medication abortion is a low-risk alternative to surgery that is used for terminating pregnancies earlier than seven to nine weeks (depending on the clinic). Mifepristone (RU486), also known as ‘the abortion pill’, is the most widely known medication used for this procedure. It is available in many clinics in Australia and is up to 98 per cent effective when used in the first nine weeks of pregnancy.
THE PRACTICE
Abortion In South Africa
There is no accurate figure for the number of abortions performed in South Africa as there is no specific data collected in all provinces.The estimated number is 80,000 per year. Approximately 34% of Australian woman aged 20-29 who have ever been pregnant have had an abortion. Limited information available suggests the Soth African abortion rate is decreasing, possibly due to increased uptake of very effective long acting contraceptives such as implants and intrauterine devices (IUDs).
Where can I have an abortion?
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A number of private abortion providers are listed in online under ''Abortion services'.
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Allied women's clinic provides medication abortion (abortion pill). Our nurses may also be able to assist you find a provider in your area.
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General Practitioners: A few GPs, mostly in rural areas, provide medication abortion. Your local doctor or community health centre might be able to help you find a provider near where you live.
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Some public hospitals also provide a limited number of free abortions.
Types Of Abortion
More than 28weeks pregnant
The law allows for abortion if at least two doctors agree that the abortion is appropriate in all the circumstances. In making their decision, the doctors must consider all relevant medical circumstances and the woman's current and future physical, psychological and social circumstances. It is very uncommon for an abortion to be performed at this stage of pregnancy and the usual reason is for fetal abnormality.
Do I have to have counselling first?
No, you don't.
If you would like to have counselling, you can do so through your doctor. Your doctor can also refer you to a specially trained counsellor. At Family Planning Victoria we offer one hour pregnancy choices information sessions with a nurse. These sessions provide factual information about all the options available to support you in making your decision.
