Abortion
Abortion is a safe and legal option in Canada. You have free access to this option throughout your pregnancy.
Two methods of abortion are available: the medication method and the instrument method.
Abortion by medication
Most clinics in Quebec offer medication abortion up to nine weeks of pregnancy. For this method, clinics may require two or three appointments.
The first drug, mifepristone, stops the development of the pregnancy. Some people may experience slight bleeding at this time. Daily activities can continue.
The second drug, misoprostol, is taken 24 to 48 hours after taking the mifepristone (follow your doctor's instructions). It is advisable to stop all daily activities on the day you take the misoprostol, as its role is to expel the tissues of the pregnancy.
Bleeding and cramping will begin within four hours of taking misoprostol. Slight bleeding may occur up to seven days after taking misoprostol.
A second appointment is required after the abortion to ensure that the intervention went smoothly and that you are feeling well.
Abortion by instruments
Abortion by instruments is carried out safely in a clinic using the dilatation-aspiration method. This method is available throughout the pregnancy. Some modifications to the procedure are necessary depending on the stage of pregnancy.
The instrument method requires one or two trips to a clinic. This medical procedure, which lasts around 15 minutes, is not surgery, as there are no incisions or sutures.
In the operating theatre, the medical team administers strong intravenous analgesics to reduce the pain associated with the cramps.
A speculum is placed at the entrance to the vagina. The cervix is anaesthetized and then gradually dilated so that tissue can be removed from the uterus. If necessary, a curettage is performed: using an instrument called a curette, the doctor removes the residual pregnancy tissue.
The patient is then taken to a rest room for about an hour, after which they can return home accompanied by someone they trust.
You may not drive for 24 hours following the intervention. You should also abstain from all activity for the rest of the day.
The experience of terminating a pregnancy varies from person to person. Many emotions can arise at any time during your decision to terminate a pregnancy. Since it can be complex and difficult to navigate these moments alone, don't hesitate to contact us on our helpline or chat service to talk confidentially with one of our counsellors. Rest assured that they will respect your pace, your uncertainties and your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is abortion free?
If you have a health insurance card (RAMQ) or are covered by the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP), abortion is free, regardless of the method you choose.
Some private or group insurance plans may cover all or part of PT. Contact your insurer for more information.
If you aren’t covered by the RAMQ or IFHP and don’t have private or group insurance, you’ll have to pay the full cost of the procedure. Prices vary depending on the method you choose and where you have the abortion. Ask the abortion clinics directly for their rates.
For more information about the costs of PT, please contact us.
I'm 15 and want to have an abortion. Do I have to tell my parents?
If you’re 14 or older, you have the right to have an abortion without informing your parents. However, your parents' consent is required if you need to receive care for 12 hours or more.
If you are under 14, parental authorization is required for any medical procedure.
What’s the difference between emergency oral contraception (EOC) and the abortion pill (medication abortion)?
Emergency oral contraception (EOC), also known as the morning-after pill, is used to prevent pregnancy.
Depending on the manufacturer (Plan B or Ella), EOC can be prescribed between three and five days after unsafe sex. No prescription is required, and it is available from pharmacies at your own expense.
EOC affects the menstrual cycle. It delays ovulation and reduces the likelihood of fertilization.
The abortion pill (medication abortion) is used to terminate a pregnancy. This method requires an appointment with a health establishment that offers abortion services.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Does abortion cause infertility or increase the risk of cancer?
Abortion is safe and has no impact on your fertility or on the development of cancer.
Age and sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs), such as chlamydia, are the two most important factors affecting fertility. Abortion plays no role.
References on abortion
- Fédération pour le planning des naissances du Québec (FQPN) (feminist group that defends rights and educates the public about sexual and reproductive health)
- Ta Raison (abortion awareness and education campaign)
- IFHP (Canadian government site on immigration)
- Sex & U (Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada website on sexual health)
- Action Canada (Pro-choice organization defending sexual health and rights in Canada)
- My Post Care
