Abortion

An abortion ends a pregnancy using medicines or a medical procedure. Good abortion care is centred on the person, confidential, based on reliable information and tailored to the stage of pregnancy, health, preferences and local regulations.

• Contact a qualified healthcare professional as early as possible. Earlier care often offers more treatment choices and a lower risk of complications.
• You should have time and unbiased information to make a decision. No one should force you to have an abortion, continue the pregnancy, choose adoption or use contraception.
• A medical abortion usually uses mifepristone followed by misoprostol. A procedural abortion often uses vacuum aspiration.
• Cramping and vaginal bleeding occur with both methods. Bleeding is often more noticeable with medication, and part of the process takes place at home when appropriate under the care plan.
• Very heavy bleeding, fainting, severe one-sided pain, shoulder pain, fever or increasing pain may indicate a complication or an ectopic pregnancy.
• An abortion performed correctly does not generally reduce future fertility and does not increase breast cancer risk.
• Ovulation can happen before the first period. Contraception can usually be started immediately or soon afterwards if you wish.
• Laws, gestational limits and available care vary by country. Ask a recognised local healthcare provider to confirm the current care pathway in Curaçao.