Our phone lines are currently very busy, but please rest assured that we are here for you.

There are a number of ways you can get in touch with us.

Close banner
UK Choose your country 

Other services

Find out about our vasectomy, contraception, and counselling services.

Read more

Who we are

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

Read more

MSI UK abortion clinic blue door with gold handle

Advice for partners, family & friends

Ways to be supportive

If someone close to you is considering abortion, there are many ways to support.

You may be unsure of exactly how to help, but just being there can make a big difference.

It may be a stressful time for you too, and it can help to know what’s involved before, during and after an abortion, so you know what to expect. Contact our advice line on 0345 300 8090 if you’d like to talk things through, or get more information for yourself.

Contact us today for a confidential chat
MSI UK clients talking inside abortion clinic

Supporting someone considering an abortion

Whether you’re a partner, family member or friend, you can be there to listen, support and offer reassurance.

The final decision to end or continue with a pregnancy lies with the pregnant person themselves. But many pregnant people are helped through the experience by having someone close to them, to talk to and share their thoughts and feelings with.

You can also offer practical support, such as going through the abortion information together, reminding them about questions they might want to ask, and supporting them with aftercare.

 

Learn more about aftercare

Five Top Tips

Create space and don’t be judgemental

Sharing an abortion experience can be nerve-wracking. If there is someone in your life who feels comfortable enough to talk to you about their experience, allow them to share their thoughts and feelings freely.

Have open and honest conversations

Open and honest conversations about abortion help women and girls feel informed, educated and supported when it comes to making their own choices about their own bodies. Let your friend or relative share their hopes, fears or worries with you.

Try not to offer advice that hasn’t been asked for

Abortion is a very individual experience. Some people feel fine whereas others may feel confusion or sadness. Don't try to tell the person who is sharing their experience what to think, do, feel or how to act. It’s hard to understand what they're going through and what works for one person might not work for someone else

Offer to travel to an appointment with them

Some people may prefer to attend appointments by themselves but offering to travel with your friend or relative shows that you support their choices and lets them know that they aren’t alone, even if they decline.

Respect their privacy

Abortion is not something to be ashamed of, but it is important to respect people’s privacy and keep the information they have told you to yourself. It is up to them when, how, and if they choose to talk about their experience.

Man talking to MSI UK nurse in a clinic

Attending an appointment with someone

Our clients can attend their appointment with one adult; however they will need to wait in the waiting area during your appointment. 

We offer two different types of abortion – medical and surgical. The type your partner, relative or friend has will depend on their gestation (how many weeks pregnant they are), medical history and personal choice.

Some people experience different emotions afterwards, such as relief or sadness. As someone close to them, you can talk to your loved one about how they are feeling and offer emotional support.

Looking for more information about abortion services?

You’ll find answers to the questions people ask most about abortions here. If you can’t find out the information you need, please call us on 0345 300 8090.

Making the right choice for you

Before deciding whether to go ahead with an abortion, it can help to be as informed as possible. We’ve collated some information about abortion we hope you’ll find useful here.

MSI UK nurse talking to a woman about abortion options

What to expect

We want you to feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible when you come for an abortion. So our team will be there to support you at every stage.

Read more
MSI UK three smiling call agents looking at screens

Abortion and your rights

In England, Scotland and Wales, you can legally have an abortion up to 23 weeks and 6 days. If you live in Northern Ireland, Ireland or the Isle of Man, you can also travel here for an abortion.

Read more
MSI UK call agent looking at two screens

A guide to costs

More than 95% of our clients have their abortion funded by the NHS. You can also pay to have one privately if you prefer, or if you’re not eligible for NHS funding.

Read more

Share this page

    Get in touch

    We specialise in abortion treatments, and personalised family planning advice and support for women and men across the UK.