abortion clinic Archives - SENG'S OG PRACTICE

Facing an unwanted pregnancy and considering abortion can bring about a whirlwind of emotions, from fear and uncertainty to sadness and guilt. For some, the decision may feel clear-cut, while for others, it may be full of complexity and conflicting sentiments. This is why it is important to make an informed decision in consultation with a reliable abortion clinic in Singapore.

Abortion clinics play a crucial role in providing essential services, support, and confidentiality to individuals facing unwanted pregnancies in Singapore. Understanding the significance of these clinics and the range of services they offer is critical for anyone seeking reproductive health care, especially in the context of termination of pregnancy in Singapore. Read on to find out more about abortion clinics, the services they provide, and why they are important in the reproductive healthcare landscape.

What is an Abortion Clinic?

Abortion clinics are specialised medical facilities dedicated to providing a range of reproductive healthcare services, with a primary focus on offering safe and legal abortions. Healthcare professionals trained in reproductive medicine, staff these clinics, ensuring that patients receive quality professional care.

The Importance of Specialised Clinics for Reproductive Healthcare

Under the Termination of Pregnancy Act in Singapore, an abortion procedure can only be carried out by an authorised gynaecologist at an MOH-approved abortion clinic. These specialised abortion clinics provide a regulated environment for anyone seeking a termination of pregnancy in Singapore. They ensure that the procedures are conducted by qualified medical practitioners adhering to approved medical protocols. Additionally, these clinics offer a range of support services, tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient, as listed below.

Services and Care Offered

Consultation

A Medical history assessment for potential risks and contraindications, comprehensive physical examination to detect any underlying health conditions, and ultrasound scans to confirm the pregnancy and determine the gestational age are some of the health screenings that will be carried out by a qualified gynaecologist at the initial consultation. Most clinics are also equipped with laboratory facilities to carry out further testing as required.

Pre- and Post-abortion Counselling

Pre-abortion counselling is a mandatory requirement in Singapore. All registered abortion clinics offer counselling services to help patients navigate their options, address any concerns or questions they may have, and provide emotional support throughout the decision-making process and beyond. After pre abortion counselling there is a mandatory 48hr cooling off period, the patients can then decide whether they want to proceed or not proceed with the abortion.

Medical and Surgical Abortions

Abortion clinics provide both medical (medication-induced) and surgical abortion procedures. Both procedures are carried out by registered and qualified medical practitioners.

A medical abortion is a non-surgical procedure that uses medication to end a pregnancy. It does not require anaesthesia or surgery and is considered a first line option for terminating an unwanted pregnancy in Singapore. One can perform a medical abortion within the first nine weeks of gestation.

Surgical abortion is another procedure commonly used for the termination of pregnancy in Singapore. This method involves the use of approved medical instruments to end an unwanted pregnancy. The specific procedure involved will vary depending on the gestational age of the pregnancy. For pregnancies between 9 and 12 weeks, the suction and aspiration (vacuum aspiration) method is used, while for pregnancies exceeding 12 weeks, a combination of medical and surgical approaches may be used.

Contraception Counselling

These reproductive clinics also provide information about various contraceptive methods as well as provide access to contraception to prevent future unintended pregnancies.

STI Testing and Treatment

Many abortion clinics provide screening, testing, and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), promoting sexual health and well-being. Check with your chosen clinic to see if they offer this service.

doctor's hands with gloves, singapore abortion clinic

Supportive Care

Abortion clinics strive to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their reproductive health needs. The qualified staff at these centres ensures that patients receive compassionate support and guidance throughout this challenging period.

Confidentiality and Privacy

Confidentiality and privacy are paramount at abortion clinics, especially in the context of sensitive issues like unwanted pregnancy and the termination of pregnancy in Singapore. This commitment to confidentiality creates a safe environment for the patient, away from the prying eyes of the public.

Professionalism

All registered abortion clinics conform to medical regulations and display professionalism in their provision of care. From the initial consultation to post-procedure follow-up, patients can expect to receive respectful, compassionate medical care from qualified healthcare professionals who prioritise their well-being above all else.

Comprehensive Abortion Care at Seng’s OG Practice

From providing comprehensive reproductive healthcare services to upholding confidentiality and privacy, our staff at Seng’s OG Practice is committed to ensuring you receive quality pre-and post-abortion care within the confines of our clinic. If you are going through an unwanted pregnancy in Singapore and would like to consult with a qualified gynaecologist, contact us today to book your appointment with Dr Seng.

The decision to have an abortion is a deeply personal one, and the experience can be both emotionally and physically demanding. While the abortion procedure itself is safe and effective, it is also important to prioritise both physical recovery and emotional well-being in the following days and weeks . Read on to understand what an abortion entails, why post-abortion care is crucial for a successful recovery, and how a Singapore abortion clinic can assist with the process.

Understanding the Procedure

Abortion is a medical procedure that ends a pregnancy before a foetus reaches 24 weeks of gestation (before the foetus reaches a stage of viability). There are two main types of abortion methods: medical abortion and surgical abortion.

Medical abortion involves taking medication to terminate the pregnancy. It is one of the safest methods available to end a pregnancy up to 9 weeks of gestation. This can be done as soon as pregnancy is detected and under the medical advice and supervision of a qualified gynaecologist at a Singapore abortion centre.

Surgical abortion involves a minor procedure called suction and aspiration (vacuum aspiration) and is performed by a registered healthcare provider. However, this method is only recommended for pregnancies between 9 and 12 weeks in gestation. A specialist will recommend a combination of medical and surgical methods if the pregnancy is 12 weeks or more.

Both are performed as day procedures and generally do not require hospitalisation when performed during the first trimester. In the rare instance where a medical practitioner deems it necessary to monitor a patient closely, the patient will be required to stay overnight at a Singapore abortion clinic. However, if the gestation period has exceeded 12 weeks, the procedure may be more complicated and will necessitate prolonged hospitalisation.

Importance of Post-Abortion Care

Regardless of the type, post-abortion care is crucial for ensuring the physical and emotional health of the patient. Medical practitioners recommend a 5-step abortion care plan for the optimal benefit of the patients.

1. Monitoring for any physical complications: This includes checking for excessive bleeding, infection, or signs of an incomplete abortion.
2. Offering emotional support and counselling: Pre- and post-counselling sessions are mandatory steps for an abortion in Singapore . All MOH-registered Singapore abortion clinics have access to qualified and registered counsellors, and all patients will be referred to a counsellor before they undergo an abortion procedure. This helps individuals process their feelings of guilt and desolation and cope with any emotional challenges that may arise. If the patient under consideration is unmarried or below the age of 16, they must be referred for counselling at the Health Promotion Board Counselling Centre.
3. Addressing specific contraceptive needs: This may include providing birth control options, discussing future reproductive plans, or offering referrals for additional resources.
4. Providing other reproductive health services: This may include STD (sexually transmitted diseases) screening and gynaecological cancer screening.

Providing access to community support groups

Physical Recovery After an Abortion

The physical recovery process after an abortion varies from person to person. Some of the common symptoms experienced by patients after a Singapore abortion are:

Bleeding and cramping: You may experience bleeding and cramping similar to a menstrual period. This typically lasts for a few days to a week. However if you experience excessive bleeding, which is continuous and heavy bleeding that soaks 2 or more maxi-size pads in an hour, rush yourself to the emergency room for immediate care.

Breast tenderness: Hormonal changes may make your breasts feel swollen and tender.

Fatigue: It is normal to feel tired after an abortion. Take it easy and allow your body time to rest.

Managing Physical Symptoms

There are several things you can do to manage your physical symptoms and promote healing:

Rest: Get plenty of rest in the days following your abortion. Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting.

Diet: Eat a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. This will help your body recover and replenish nutrients.

Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort and cramping. Speak to your healthcare provider about any pain management drugs they may prescribe.

Heat therapy: Applying a heating pad to your abdomen or lower back can help relieve cramps.

Follow-up appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. This is important for monitoring your recovery and will help address any concerns.

Emotional Healing and Psychological Well-Being

The emotional impact of an abortion can vary greatly from person to person. Some of the most common emotions experienced by patients who have undergone abortion include grief, guilt, relief, anger, sadness, and confusion. It is absolutely important to allow yourself to feel your emotions and acknowledge that they are valid.

Managing Emotions

Some of the recommended methods of managing emotional responses are as follows:

Talk to someone you trust: Talking to a friend, family member, therapist, or counsellor can provide emotional support and help you process your feelings.

Join a support group: Connecting with others who have had similar experiences can be a source of comfort and help you feel less alone.

Practice self-care: Engage in activities that you find relaxing and enjoyable, such as spending time in nature, listening to music, or reading a book.

Be patient with yourself: Healing takes time. Be patient with yourself, and don’t rush the process.

Self-Care and Self-Compassion

Self-care practices are essential for both physical and emotional healing. Make sure to get enough sleep, aiming for 7-8 hours of shut-eye each night, eat a healthy diet, and engage in moderate exercise regularly. Exercise can help improve your mood and energy levels.

Other beneficial activities may include practising relaxation techniques—activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can help reduce stress and anxiety—and, most importantly, make sure to avoid negative self-talk.

Holistic Post-Abortion Care at Seng’s OG Practice — Singapore Abortion Clinic

Post-abortion care is not just about physical recovery but about holistic healing. From the time of finding out about the unwanted pregnancy until the decision to abort, a patient goes through a range of spiralling emotions from moral and ethical considerations to societal stigma. When it comes to abortion, there is no right or wrong answer, and the decision should be made by the woman involved, based on her circumstances. At Seng’s OG Practice, we take a holistic and empathetic approach to patient care. We ensure that your emotions are acknowledged and that you receive comprehensive pre- and post-abortion care at our Singapore abortion clinic. Call us; our specialists are here to help.

Misinformation and misconceptions often surround the topic of abortion in Singapore. These myths often result in fear, stigma, and even discrimination against those who choose to have an abortion. While abortion is a personal decision that an individual arrives at after much consideration, dispelling these myths with accurate information and understanding is crucial for the benefit of all. Read on to gain more insights on abortion myths and facts.

What is an abortion?

Abortion is often defined as the termination of a pregnancy by the expulsion of the foetus or an embryo. It is a safe medical procedure performed by trained medical professionals at an approved abortion clinic in Singapore. There are two main types of abortion:

Medical abortion: Doctors generally perform medical abortions until 9 weeks of pregnancy using a combination of two medicines taken at 24-hour and 48-hour intervals. Patients often start the procedure at a medical clinic and complete it at home.

Surgical abortion: This involves a minor surgical procedure called suction and aspiration to terminate the pregnancy by dilating the opening to the uterus (cervix) and placing a small suction tube into the uterus. The suction tube removes the foetus and related pregnancy material from the uterus.

Both types of abortion are highly effective and safe when performed by a qualified healthcare provider at an MOH-approved abortion clinic in Singapore.

Myth #1: People use abortion as a contraceptive method.

Abortion is not a contraceptive method. It is intended to end an existing pregnancy, not prevent one. While some individuals may experience unintended pregnancies more than once, abortion is not a replacement for regular contraception. Various effective birth control methods are available to help individuals prevent unwanted pregnancies.

Myth #2: Abortion causes long-term mental health issues.

Abortion does not cause long-term mental health problems. While some individuals may experience brief feelings of sadness or grief after an abortion, these feelings typically resolve within a few weeks. The Ministry of Health Singapore mandates compulsory counselling before and after an abortion, to help patients cope with long-term mental health issues.

Myth #3: Abortion is never medically necessary.

In some cases, abortion in Singapore may be medically necessary to protect the health or life of the pregnant woman. This can include medical conditions that are contraindicated in pregnancy or severe foetal abnormalities. In these cases, continuing the pregnancy can pose significant risks to the mother’s health and well-being.

#4. Myth: Abortion is a dangerous procedure.

Modern abortion procedures are safe and effective when performed by a qualified healthcare provider. As per international research, the total number of abortion-related complications is estimated to be about 2% when carried out by a qualified medical professional.

#5. Myth: Abortion is only about choice, not health.

While the right to choose is an essential aspect of abortion access, it is important to recognise that abortion can also be a crucial healthcare decision. Pregnancy and childbirth can pose significant health risks for some individuals. Additionally, the social and economic burdens of an unwanted pregnancy can have a detrimental impact on the general well-being of the individual or family. Therefore, access to safe and legal abortion is a vital part of ensuring women’s health and reproductive justice.

Empathetic Care at Seng’s OG Practice Abortion Clinic Singapore

Access to accurate information is crucial for empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their reproductive health and well-being. At Seng’s OG Practice, our dedicated team is here to ensure every patient has access to accurate information and counselling prior to deciding on the best course of action for their pregnancy termination. Our professionals ensure the utmost confidentiality of all our patients as they navigate this challenging decision. Call us to find out how we can help you!

Abortion Clinics: Services, Support and Confidentiality