I found out I was accidentally pregnant and chose to pursue a medical abortion. My usual GP was booked out for weeks, so I booked an appointment with a GP who I have seen a couple of times for contraceptive healthcare in the past.
I recall the appointment went as follows:
Me: I have had a positive pregnancy test, so I need to confirm.
GP: Ok! Do you know the date of the first day of your last period?
Me: Yes, ____.
GP: Great. And you want to continue with the pregnancy?
Me: No, I want to access a medical termination.
GP: I don't do that. We need extra training to prescribe the medication.
Me: I was under the impression that that was no longer the case in NSW. It's totally fine for you to refuse on personal grounds, but they changed the training requirement.
GP: Yes, I just don't do it... because it would be ending a life.
Me: ...
GP: You know you can choose adoption? If you have a good support network you should really consider adoption.
Me: I'm aware. I want to terminate.
GP: Okay well I can give you the blood test and ultrasound referrals, and you should google abortion clinics.
I then asked the GP to check if any GPs in the practice prescribe MS2-Step. They called reception who confirmed that none will.
Yes, they were allowed to refuse on personal grounds. However, they did not provide a referral to another doctor. I believe they did not provide unbiased medical care, in my opinion they perpetuated a deep and profound social stigma which left me feeling vulnerable during a very high stress health journey.
I am just grateful that I was not conflicted in my decision at all, as I can only imagine how those words would have felt, and potentially changed my mind towards making a life altering decision.
"Abortion stigma from GP"
About: GPs in the Watson Electoral District GPs in the Watson Electoral District PARRAMATTA 2150
Posted by echonq58 (as ),
Do you have a similar story to tell?
Tell your story & make a difference
››