Abortion

Abortions are a safe and legal way to end a pregnancy. There are two types of therapeutic abortion: surgical abortion (an internal procedure) and medical abortion (using medication).

Surgical abortions are the most common abortion procedure in Canada.

Medical abortions are typically offered early in pregnancy – up until seven weeks from the first day of a person’s last menstrual period.

Both are safe procedures. Most abortions are performed within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. 

Does it cost money to have an abortion?

In Nunavut, abortions are free for beneficiaries, and non-beneficiaries have to co-pay a fee for travel each way.

Will I have to travel to get an abortion?

In Inuit Nunangat, most abortions take place in a hospital. This means that you might have to travel outside of your community to get an abortion. To get a referral, visit your local health centre.

Support

Remember, only you can decide which option is best for you. If you have questions about your options, call Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights: 1-888-642-2725 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week).

Or if you live in the Northwest Territories or the Kitikmeot region of Nunavut, call Northern Options for Women (NOW) at 1-888-873-5710.