Getting Ready for your Appointment
First, complete forms that we email you on the day you receive them. More forms may arrive 48 hours before the appointment. See further steps below for each procedure type. Read this page in full.
Guidelines to enter clinic (for everyone)
Bring only what you need and what brings comfort. We’ll provide a lock & locker. You must store bags, coats, and other items.
If you have cold or flu symptoms, a mask is required.
Plan to be here for 2-3.5 hours.
Show government photo ID. Clients with OHIP should show their health card, which covers all fees.
Do not wear scented products.
To support future abortion providers, Choice in Health may invite a learner to take part in your appointment, such as a midwifery student or a physician pursuing a specialization in abortion care. Check with staff if you have any concerns.
If you are having a surgical abortion and you would like to include them in the procedure room, then we will do our best to facilitate your request. This will be dependent on the care planned by the medical team and is not guaranteed, and does not include accompaniment during your assessment, ultrasound or recovery time. If your support person is caring for children at the appointment, then they will not be able to join you during the procedure.
To minimize clinic traffic, your support person must arrive with you; and meet you after the appointment if they choose to exit. They should follow all guidelines above and read our Guide for Support People before coming.
ONE person can join you in the clinic
YOU CANNOT DRIVE YOURSELF TO/FROM THE CLINIC.
FASTING -> We recommend that you eat lightly the day of your procedure and start fasting (no food or water) one (1) hour before your appointment time.
CLOTHING -> Bring socks; and a short-sleeved/sleeveless dress or long shirt that covers you to your knees. If your top is short, bring a long skirt too. You’ll wear this for your procedure and recovery, when light bleeding is normal, so clothes may stain.
NAILS -> If possible, please ensure that 1 fingernail is free of all product.
The procedure takes ~ 5 minutes. You’ll be awake with local sedation. Generally, health care providers require an individual receiving any surgical procedure and/or sedation to have a responsible adult, aged 18+, available by phone or in person throughout their appointment; and to accompany them while leaving. We encourage you to arrange this support if you are having a surgical procedure, but we recognize that this will not be possible for all clients. We will provide your care if you come to your appointment alone.
Prepare for a Surgical Procedure
Read carefully. If you skip any steps, your appointment could be cancelled.
Prepare for a Medication Procedure
Stay hydrated so you can provide a urine sample.
You will receive the information and medications to complete your abortion at home. Clients who may face barriers to accessing health care or other supports are invited to pick up a package with additional supplies before leaving. There is a white cabinet in the corridor as you approach the front waiting room, where you can read more information and take a package if you need one.