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Introduction
If your pregnancy is unwanted, it is for you to decide whether you want to carry it to full-term or not.
Many different aspects play a part in your decision. We realise it is difficult to consider every possibility thoroughly, but in the end the choice is up to only you.
When you have decided to end the pregnancy, it is important to know what you have to do.
First , you should see your GP for confirmation of your pregnancy and to discuss your request for an abortion. Then you can call us for an appointment.
If your GP is unable or unwilling to cooperate, we can inform you on how to proceed. The Dutch Abortion Act requires a minimum of five days between your first request for abortion and the actual treatment. In the case of a very early pregnancy (i.e. up to 16 days late in your menstrual cycle) these five days are not compulsory.



Your appointment
You should arrive at our clinic on the appointed day and time, after which you will be registered.
Although we try to avoid any unnecessary delay, you should allow for a stay of three to four hours in our clinic.
You are expected to bring the following:enlarge picture by mouse click We recommend a light breakfast and no coffee prior to the treatment.

The process inside the clinic
After registration you will consult with both a nurse and a doctor.
If you prefer, your partner can be present to support you. In these talks you can discuss all matters, e.g. the various motives involved in your choice for a termination; your future contraception method, taking into account any earlier difficulties you may have experienced.
If you prefer the pill, you should start taking it (depending on the type of pill) not later than five days after treatment. The contraceptive injection is usually given immediately after treatment. If you want an IUD, it can be placed right after the treatment.
After the preliminary consultation, the doctor may find a physical examination necessary in order to establish the exact term of your pregnancy. If you decide to request the procedure, the rest of the process will be explained to you.

The procedureenlarge picture by mouse click
The abortion itself is a relatively simple medical operation. The method used is a vacuum-aspiration. First, the uterus is locally anaesthesized. Then a thin tube is inserted into the vagina, through which the uterus is emptied. There is a limited loss of blood. The pain you may experience is comparable to menstrual pain. Women who are Rh-negative receive an anti-Rh injection, if necessary.

Risks
Like any other form of surgery, an abortion carries a risk. The risk is limited by careful treatment and the absence of a total anaesthesia. Serious side-effects, such as hemorrhaging, perforation or infertility, are rare.
Carrying a pregnancy to full-term involves a greater risk of these complications.

After the procedure
For about half an hour, longer if needed, you will stay in the recovery room for observation. Then you can leave, preferably accompanied by your partner (or friend or family member).
You are advised to rest that day and the following. However, serious problems are not expected.

For a few weeks after the treatment some blood loss is normal; sometimes it increases after a few days, with perhaps some blood clots and menstrual pain. There may be a brownish flow until your next period.
We advise you not to use tampons in the first week after the treatment, not to bathe (a shower is fine) and to avoid sports.
At home take your medication as prescribed; to reduce the risk of infection, a short-term antibiotic treatment is often included. You also receive a letter to inform your GP.
Your first period is expected after four to six weeks.

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The check-up
A few weeks after treatment you will need a check-up. You will be examined to see if you have completely recovered.
For the examination you can come to our clinic or see your own doctor.
In the latter case, your doctor is asked to fill in the check-up form and return it to our clinic. You can consult your doctor if you have any complaints or difficulties.
You may also wish to discuss your future method of contraception. In the event of any complaints or problems resulting from the treatment, you can always contact our clinic.

Professional confidence and privacy
The whole procedure is subject to professional confidence, meaning that no relevant information is passed on to others (this also applies in the case of minors).
The legally required registration of medical acts is strictly anonymous and therefore untraceable to any person. The Dutch Abortion Act requires this protection of privacy.

Expenses
Women who live in Holland and are registered here are not charged any expenses. The costs are covered by a Dutch medical insurance (AWBZ). If you are from abroad, you must pay in cash. The amount depends on the duration of your pregnancy. Information on fees and prices is available at the reception.

To conclude
We hope that this leaflet has answered most of your questions and that you will have confidence in our high standard of care. Should you have any comment or remarks, you can apply to: Mildred House is required, as are all Dutch medical institutions, to provide you with information on how to submit any complaints you may have to the proper authorities.
It is available on your request.