What to expect when you go to a clinic in the Netherlands?
You phone the clinic and make an appointment.
You first talk with someone about the way you got pregnant and how long ago this happened, about your medical history, your decision to have an abortion and about the method of birth control you are planning to use in the future. They explain the abortion procedure and what to expect, answering all questions you may have.
You have a pelvic exam or an ultra sound to determine how long you have been pregnant.
In the Netherlands you have to wait 5 days between your first appointment and the abortion (determined by law).
If you are pregnant less than 18 weeks (starting to count from the first day of your last period) you normally get a local anaesthesia before dilating the opening of the cervix. A tube is inserted in the vagina through which the uterus is drained.
The pain is comparable to having a heavy period.
After the operation you rest in a separate room to recover. You can go home as soon as you feel capable.
After three weeks you have a follow-up visit to check if everything is alright.
If you have been pregnant for 18-22 weeks (starting to count from the first day of your last period) the procedure is more complex and often has more impact psychologically.

Tip: Don’t go to the clinic on your own. Bring someone who can support you!