An abortion is the removal or expulsion of an embryo or foetus from the uterus. It may be induced or spontaneous (miscarriage).

Call the 24/7 toll free number 0800 22 333 or email advice@srhmatters.org for more information on abortion.

Types of Abortions

There are 2 types of abortions.

1. Spontaneous abortion refers to a natural process by which the embryo is expelled. It is also referred to as a miscarriage.
2. Induced abortion refers to termination of pregnancy through intervention.

Spontaneous Abortion or Miscarriage

A large percentage of the product of the union of an egg and a sperm does not get implanted in the uterus and therefore the uterus often has to expel it. This may occur very early on with the woman only experiencing a larger than usual blood flow around the time of her expected menstrual period, or it may occur later.

When it occurs later, the event is commonly called a miscarriage, but technically it is a spontaneous abortion if it occurs before twenty weeks of conception Spontaneous abortions can be the body’s way of preventing the birth of a defective child. Sometimes they may also occur due to maternal health problems.

Induced Abortions

These result from a planned interruption or termination of pregnancy. Medical and surgical methods may be used for induced abortions. Call the 24/7 toll free number 0800 22 333 or email advice@srhmatters.org for more information.

Therapeutic Abortions

This term refers to abortions that are thought to be necessary because of fetal anomalies, rape, or to protect the health of the mother when the birth of a child might be life threatening or may be physically or psychologically damaging to her.

Elective or Voluntary Abortions

Termination of the embryo at the woman’s request for reasons other than fetal anomalies or maternal risk is often referred to as elective or voluntary abortion. Such abortions often result from social problems, such as teenage pregnancy, non-marital births, and economic difficulties such as insufficient income to support a child, inappropriate timing or failed contraceptive usage.

If you want to discuss any of the above issues with a health professional , or want advice or suggestions , please call the toll free number 0800 22 333 or email the Panel Specialist at advice@srhmatters.org and get an answer within 24 hours.