Telehealth Medical Abortion – How does it work?

The information contained on this page is related to Western Australian laws and regulations. If you are located outside WA, contact your state’s Family Planning Association.  

What is a Telehealth Medical Abortion? 

A telehealth medical abortion involves utilising either video or phone consultations to facilitate the process of terminating a pregnancy.  

In Western Australia these services are accessible for people who are up to and including 9 weeks (63 days) gestation.   

Who is eligible for a telehealth medical abortion? 

To be eligible for a telehealth medical abortion, you must be suitable for a medical termination as assessed by a healthcare provider and be within two hours of a hospital in case of complications from abortion medications.

How does a telehealth medical abortion work? 

1. Initial consultation  

A telehealth medical termination starts with a consultation with a clinician either over the phone or via video call. In this first appointment your doctor can discuss all choices in relation to your pregnancy. This includes options for terminating the pregnancy or continuing the pregnancy, either with the intention to parent or planning for adoption.  

A referral for an ultrasound and blood test may also be provided during this appointment via email or other electronic platforms. These tests are often needed to confirm the pregnancy and establish how far along you are in your pregnancy.  

2. Medication appointment 

A second appointment is usually required, typically once the results of any investigations (e.g. ultrasound and/or blood tests) have been received. During this telehealth consultation, the clinician will provide a detailed explanation of the medications, their use and what to expect during a medical abortion.  

If appropriate to proceed, you will then receive a prescription for MS-2 Step (the abortion medication). This is usually sent via a text/email to your phone or can be arranged to be sent directly to the pharmacy for collection. The prescription can be filled at any pharmacy with stock available – it is recommended to call ahead to confirm availability, as some pharmacies may need advance notice to order the medication for you.  

Additionally, you will also receive scripts for pain relief and anti-nausea medication, along with written information about the procedure, what to expect and any potential complications to look out for. 

Alternatively, some clinicians may choose to send the medications to you directly via express postage if this option is more suitable.  

3. Medical Abortion Procedure 

When you are ready to begin the procedure, take the first step (containing mifepristone) at a convenient time for you. The second step (containing misoprostol) must be taken 24 to 48 hours later. Once you have taken the second step, you can expect cramping and heavy vaginal bleeding (possibly with large blood clots) to begin about one to four hours later and continue over several hours. Other common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, headaches and fever, which typically last for about a day following the second step. 

Complications are rare but serious. Those experiencing complications (e.g., excessive bleeding and severe pain) will need to attend their nearest Emergency Department. 

If you would like any advice related to the medication or are experiencing side effects, you can call 1800 4 Choice (1800 424 642) and speak to an experienced abortion care nurse Mon – Fri 9am-5pm or you could call Health Direct on 1800 022 222, which is a 24-hour health information service. 

4. Follow-up Appointment 

A week after taking the first step, you will need to have a blood test to check if the procedure has been successful. You will need to have a follow up telehealth appointment with your clinician to confirm that the medical abortion was successful and to check for any complications. Your clinician will also discuss contraception options with you and can provide a referral to a counselling service, if needed. 

Which services provide telehealth Abortions in Western Australia? 

Many providers of medical abortions can provide telehealth services. To find services that can provide telehealth medical abortions please visit the 1800 4 Choice interactive map at map.4choice.org.au or call 1800 424 642 to speak to our staff who will help you find a telehealth service provider.