NOW

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be able to have a safe pregnancy after having an abortion?

Yes. An abortion will not stop you from becoming pregnant in the future.  The staff of the NOW program use every precaution to minimize the risk of complications that would interfere with future fertility.

Will it hurt?

The average procedure takes about ten minutes. There will be a nurse practitioner by your side who will give you medication to help you relax, as well as a strong narcotic for pain. This is given through a tiny injection into a vein. We will adjust the dosages of both these medications to keep each client as comfortable as possible. Most people report a sensation of menstrual-like cramps and some people report no pain at all. The majority of our patients report that the procedure was not nearly as uncomfortable as they had imagined.

Will I be put to sleep?

You will not be asleep for your procedure, but you will be given medication that will help you to relax and may make you feel sleepy (sedated). Studies have shown that it is safer to have an abortion while sedated, rather than fully asleep.

Will I have to take time off from work or school?

Following the procedure, we advise our patients to take the remainder of the day to rest or pamper themselves as they see fit. Some people wish to return to their usual activities immediately, while others resume their schedule the following day.

What if I have more than one abortion?

There is no research or statistical data to support the belief that having more than one abortion will damage or affect fertility. Most people who have abortions do so before the 12th week of pregnancy, and these first trimester abortions are very low risk. The abortion procedure has very minimal impact to the cervix and uterus.

Will I bleed after my abortion?

There is a range of bleeding that can happen after an abortion. Some people don’t bleed at all, while others may bleed for 1 to 2 weeks afterwards like their menstrual period flow. Some people can bleed or spot for several weeks after their abortion. For all individuals, their next regular menstrual period will come between 4 to 6 weeks after their abortion. You will be given instructions on what to expect after your abortion.

Can I wear a tampon after my abortion?

We recommend that you don’t put anything into your vagina for two weeks after your abortion to help prevent infection. This means that you should use pads instead of tampons for any bleeding. You should also NOT have vaginal sex, baths (okay to shower!), swim in hot tubs or pools, douche or put anything foreign into your vagina. If you do any of these things, you will increase your chance of getting an infection.

Can I have sex after my abortion?

Not for two weeks. We recommend that you don’t put anything into your vagina for two weeks after your abortion to help prevent infection. Also, you can get pregnant after your abortion if you are not using a birth control method. Our counsellors can talk to you about birth control choices that would work for you.

Do I need permission from my parents to have an abortion?

No, you do not. As long as you understand the information you are given and feel comfortable making decisions, you do not need permission.

Can I bring someone with me for my appointment?

We encourage you to bring someone you are comfortable with to any and all parts of the appointment. The only part of the appointment they cannot be present for is the procedure itself. You will need someone to take you home after the procedure. If at any time you do not want your support person present for part of the appointment just let the staff know.