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Abortion services

We specialise in abortion treatments, advice and support for women considering their pregnancy options.

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We're the leading independent provider of sexual and reproductive health services in the UK.

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A client from England shares her story

9 December 2017

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    "Although this was not a situation I ever wanted to be in, I cannot fault any of the staff from start to finish."

    A client who chose to have a medical abortion shares her story. She has two young children and unexpectedly found out she was pregnant.

    "I am 35 years old, happily married with a 5 year old and 3 year old. I found out I was 6 weeks pregnant 3 days ago (Wednesday). It was a hard decision but made the call to Marie Stopes after an afternoon of careful consideration.

    "A very professional yet sympathetic lady took my details and said I would get a call within an hour time frame the next day to go through some medical questions and to arrange an appointment for the procedure. An appointment was made for Friday for a medical termination. I was given clear instructions and felt reassured."

    The painkillers obviously did their part, I could tell something was happening but wasn't in any discomfort.
    Anonymous
    Client from England

    After our client booked her appointment, she attended one of our small, clinics hosted in a local GP surgery.

    "I arrived at a local GP practice (not my own) and was greeted by a nurse who carried out the procedure. My husband wasn't allowed in the room but he didn't mind and I understand why.

    "I was asked my weight and height, blood pressure and iron levels were taken. The procedure was explained to me in a methodical but reassuring way. I had to sign consent and was asked if I was sure of my decision. I was given codeine, antibiotics and anti sickness tablets before taking the 1st pill. I had already taken 800mg ibuprofen before I arrived."

    "Shortly after this I had to insert 4 pills into my vagina. I found this the hardest as I knew this would be the end of the pregnancy. I was worried they would fall out on the way home but the nurse reassured me to just reinsert if this happened before I started bleeding.

    "I was worried about the pain and seeing the outcome. Within 2 hours I started to bleed but no pain. The painkillers obviously did their part, I could tell something was happening but wasn't in any discomfort."

    "The procedure was explained to me in a methodical but reassuring way."

    After she left the clinic, our client returned home to pass the pregnancy.

    "We had to collect the children and they were totally unaware. I also had to take more antibiotics the same evening.

    "It's Saturday now and obviously I'm still bleeding but this has slowed down. I haven't taken any more painkillers. I have been given 2 pregnancy tests to take in 3 weeks and 4 weeks time and can call for advice at any time.

    "Although this was not a situation I ever wanted to be in, I cannot fault any of the staff from start to finish. I know it must be routine to them but they make you feel like you're their only concern. I hope by writing this so soon after my experience it may help someone in the same situation."