Frequently Asked Questions About Abortion

The first step is to contact the clinic to schedule an information appointment.

At this initial visit, an ultrasound is performed to confirm how many weeks pregnant you are, and the available methods of voluntary termination of pregnancy (IVE) are explained.

This way, the patient receives all the information needed to make an informed decision.

The experience depends on the method used:

– Surgical abortion: performed under anaesthesia (local) or sedation.

With sedation, you don’t feel pain during the procedure; with local anaesthesia, you may notice mild discomfort, similar to a cramp, but never intense pain.

– Medical abortion: the at-home process causes cramps that are stronger than those of a heavy period.

To control them, we prescribe a regimen of strong pain relievers and complementary measures such as local heat.

No. Both medical and surgical abortion, when performed in an accredited clinic and with appropriate medical supervision, do not affect future fertility.

After the procedure, it is important to attend the follow-up visit to confirm there are no complications such as infections, which ensures the preservation of reproductive capacity.

Yes, one companion is allowed. At the first information visit, the companion can wait in the waiting room or, if the patient requests it, enter the consultation.

On the day of the surgical procedure, it is recommended to come accompanied, although the companion must wait outside the clinic during the procedure for privacy reasons for the other patients.

If sedation has been chosen, it is essential that this person picks up the patient at the end.

Yes. The decision is personal and can be changed at any time before the procedure.

The purpose of the first visit is to provide information and answer questions.

If, after receiving the information, you prefer not to continue or to wait longer, the clinic respects this without any pressure.

In general, the entire process, from first contact to the follow-up visit that confirms medical discharge, is usually completed within 2 to 3 weeks.

The goal is for the procedure to be efficient, safe, and allow the patient to return to their routine as soon as possible.

In most cases, the greatest difficulty is not physical, but emotional.

Uncertainty before the first appointment and the weight of the decision often cause anxiety.

However, by going to a specialised and safe centre, many patients feel immediate relief when they receive professional support and a trusted environment.

Medical abortion is carried out through the administration of medication (mifepristone and misoprostol) that causes the pregnancy to end and be expelled, usually at the patient’s home, within the first 9 weeks of pregnancy.

Surgical abortion is performed at the clinic, using uterine aspiration (MVA), with local anaesthesia or sedation, and is the recommended method when the pregnancy is beyond that time frame or if you prefer a faster procedure.

Both are safe and effective when performed in an accredited centre.

In some cases, yes.

If the ultrasound and medical assessment confirm that the pregnancy is within the legal and clinical timeframes, and the patient wants it, it may be possible to have the abortion on the same day.

This depends on the medical team’s availability and compliance with all legal requirements (signing the informed consent form).

Confidentiality is a legal and ethical obligation. Spanish regulations on induced abortion set very strict data-protection protocols.

At the clinic, personal information is kept separate from medical information through an internal coding system, which guarantees patient anonymity.

No one in your personal circle or in other administrations can access this information without a court order.

Yes, medical abortion is a safe procedure as long as it is done within the recommended weeks and under medical supervision.

Although the process takes place at home, you will have a direct contact phone number available 24 hours a day to handle any issues.

If you experience pain that is more intense than expected or any unusual symptoms, you will be advised to come to the clinic immediately or go to an emergency service.

In general, yes.

The process causes cramps that are usually more intense than those of a heavy period. Your uterus is contracting.

Intensity varies from one woman to another, but it is significant pain. That’s why we will give you a clear schedule of strong pain relievers so you can manage it as effectively as possible.

Applying local heat can also help, for example with a hot water bottle on the abdomen or lower back.

When the procedure is done in the early weeks (up to week 9 of pregnancy), what is expelled is mainly the gestational sac along with decidual tissue, bleeding, and clots.

The embryo is still very small and not fully formed, so in most cases it is not distinguishable from the rest of the clots.

Medical abortion is highly effective, between 95% and 98.5%.

In the small percentage of cases where it is not completed, the process is completed in the clinic safely via uterine aspiration (surgical abortion).

This additional treatment is covered, although if sedation is needed, it may involve an extra cost.

Yes, the follow-up visit at 15 days is essential.

It is not an administrative formality, but the only way to confirm by ultrasound that the abortion has been completed correctly and that there are no retained products in the uterus.

For patients living abroad or who must return to their country, remote follow-up can be coordinated, always with clear medical instructions.

No. Surgical abortion is a minor, safe and quick procedure.

It is called “surgical” because it is performed in an operating room, which ensures the highest standards of sterility and medical safety.

The procedure is carried out vaginally, so it does not require external incisions and leaves no visible scars.

No. At the clinic we use Manual Vacuum Aspiration (MVA), a modern method that is less invasive than traditional curettage.

Unlike scraping, aspiration removes the uterine contents more gently, which supports a fast recovery and minimises post-procedure discomfort.

Yes, we recommend coming with someone and, if you choose sedation, it is mandatory.

After the procedure, you cannot drive or go home alone on public transport, as your reflexes may be affected by the medication.

For safety and privacy reasons, the companion must wait outside the clinic and pick up the patient after discharge.

The operating room procedure lasts between 10 and 20 minutes.

However, the total time at the clinic is usually 2 to 4 hours, as it includes preparation, the procedure, and the recovery and observation period afterwards.

In more advanced pregnancies, the stay may be longer and is organised on an individual basis with the medical team.

If the appointment is only for the medical consultation and ultrasound, fasting is not necessary.

However, if there is a possibility of having the surgical abortion on the same day, a strict fast of at least 6 hours is mandatory (no food or liquids, including water).

The essential document is a valid official ID (DNI, passport, or NIE). In addition:

– Private route: only the ID document is required.

– Public route (CatSalut): the Individual Health Card (TSI) and the authorisation form issued by the corresponding CAP or ASSIR are also required.

Yes, you may come with one companion, always respecting the privacy of other patients.

At the first information visit, the companion can wait in the waiting room and, if desired, enter the consultation.

On the day of the surgical procedure, they must remain outside the premises and pick up the patient at the end.

For cases handled through CatSalut, the visit is fully covered by public healthcare.

Via the private route, the first visit (which includes medical assessment and ultrasound) costs from €100.

However, this amount is deducted from the final price if the procedure is carried out at the clinic.

Estimated calculations from mobile apps or based on the date of the last period are only approximate.

The medically and legally valid gestational age is the one determined by the ultrasound performed at the clinic.

This test acts like a “precision measurement” and may show differences of a few days compared to the prior estimate, which can influence the choice of method and the cost of the procedure.

Yes, it’s normal. After an abortion it is common to have intermittent bleeding, similar to a period, for 10 to 20 days.

What matters is not the duration but the amount: the warning sign would be very heavy bleeding (soaking two large pads per hour for two hours in a row).

In that case, you should contact the clinic’s emergency service immediately.

Yes. After an induced abortion it is common to experience a mix of feelings such as relief, sadness, calm, or guilt.

This emotional up-and-down can be due both to the impact of the decision and to hormonal changes.

If distress persists or feels difficult to manage, it is recommended to talk to trusted people or consult the medical team, who can guide you towards support resources.

It is recommended to wait 15 days or until the follow-up visit to resume penetrative sex.

This period allows the cervix to close and reduces the risk of infection.

It is important to remember that ovulation can occur before the first period, so a new pregnancy is possible if an effective contraceptive method is not used.

Yes, the 15-day follow-up visit is essential.

Even if there are no symptoms, the ultrasound performed at this appointment is the only way to confirm that the uterus is completely empty and that there are no retained products.

This check ensures the process has been completed safely and protects the patient’s health.

Complications are uncommon, but it’s important to recognise warning signs.

These include very heavy bleeding (soaking two large pads per hour for two hours in a row), a persistent fever of 38°C or higher, severe abdominal pain not controlled with pain relievers, or foul-smelling discharge.

If any of these symptoms occur, you should contact the clinic’s emergency service or go to a hospital.

Your period usually returns between 4 and 6 weeks after the procedure.

However, ovulation can happen before your first period, so there is a risk of becoming pregnant right away if you don’t use protection.

After an abortion, you can start an effective contraceptive method immediately, whether hormonal contraception, DIU or implant, depending on medical advice and the patient’s choice.

The use of tampons or a menstrual cup is not recommended during the first two weeks after the procedure, or until the medical team authorises it.

During this period, it is preferable to use pads to reduce the risk of infection while the uterus and cervix finish healing.

The general recommendation is to avoid intense exercise (running, weightlifting, high-impact classes) during the first two weeks to support recovery and avoid heavy bleeding.

Gentle activities such as walking can be resumed sooner, depending on how the patient feels.

The main advantages are speed, discretion, and the simplicity of the process.

Via the private route, you do not need to go first to primary care (CAP) to obtain a referral, which significantly reduces waiting times.

Everything is managed within the clinic itself, in a more efficient and confidential setting.

No. Unlike the public route, no referral is required in the private route.

The patient can contact the clinic directly, where the appointment, initial assessment, and the entire process are handled in an integrated way.

No. Abortions performed in a private centre are recorded only in the clinic’s internal medical record, which is protected by data-protection regulations.

This information is not shared with the public health system and therefore does not appear in the patient’s general medical record (La Meva Salut).

Yes. The quoted price is fixed and includes the first visit, the medical procedure, materials, the team’s fees, anaesthesia fees, and the follow-up visit afterwards.

There are no unexpected additional costs.

Yes. Legislation requires both accredited private centres and public hospitals to comply with the same quality and safety standards.

The clinic has official accreditation from the Generalitat de Catalunya (code E08804241), which ensures rigorous medical protocols, safe facilities, and a qualified professional team.

At the CAP or ASSIR appointment, it is enough to say: “I’m pregnant and I want to request an induced abortion”.

No further explanation is required if you don’t want to give one.

It is a recognised right and healthcare staff are required to start the process confidentially and professionally.

Yes. The referral form allows you to choose between public hospitals and accredited clinics contracted with CatSalut, such as >CGSants.

The patient has the right to decide which centre they want to use.

Yes. CatSalut coverage is complete and includes the first visit, necessary tests, the procedure (medical or surgical), anaesthesia or sedation, and the follow-up visit afterwards.

The procedure is completely free for the patient.

The process is fast.

In general, from the CAP or ASSIR appointment to the abortion itself, it takes around one week.

Regulations ensure care is provided without unjustified delays.

Accredited clinics offer a more specialised and efficient setting than large hospitals.

At CGSants, care is personalised and confidential, with a faster pathway and a discreet environment.

In addition, an emergency phone line available 24 hours is provided for post-procedure follow-up.

In Spain, induced abortion is legal without needing justification up to 14 weeks of pregnancy.

It is also permitted up to 22 weeks if there are serious risks to the woman’s health or life, or severe fetal anomalies.

After 22 weeks, abortion is only legal in cases where fetal anomalies incompatible with life or extraordinarily severe and incurable illnesses are detected, always after evaluation by a clinical committee.

No. Spanish law recognises a woman’s right to end a pregnancy during the first 14 weeks without having to justify any reason.

You are not required to provide explanations or give reasons; the decision is personal and is fully protected by law.

No. The most recent reform of the Abortion Law eliminated the mandatory waiting period.

Once you have received full information at the clinic and signed informed consent, you can schedule the procedure without legally imposed waiting times.

No. Since the legal change, women aged 16 and 17 have full capacity to decide and sign informed consent without requiring authorisation from parents or legal guardians.

The procedure is carried out with the same confidentiality guarantees as for any adult.

Informed consent is a legal document that ensures the patient has received clear information about the procedure, available methods, risks, and consequences.

Signing it does not imply an irreversible commitment but confirms that the decision has been made freely and with full understanding.

Yes, but under specific conditions established by law.

Between weeks 14 and 22 of pregnancy, abortion is only legal in cases of serious risk to the woman’s health or life, or serious fetal anomalies.

At our clinic, we handle the indication of serious risk to the woman’s health, which requires an opinion (that is, a professional judgement) issued by a specialist in psychiatry who is different from the clinician performing the procedure.

No. The European Health Insurance Card only covers medical emergencies in public health system facilities.

As this is a private clinic, the cost of the procedure must be paid by the patient.

It is recommended to check whether travel insurance or a national private health policy provides reimbursement coverage.

The process is simple: only a valid official ID document from your EU country is required (national ID or passport).

This identification is sufficient to open your record and receive medical care at the clinic.

Yes. The medical team is used to caring for international patients and communicates fluently in English and French.

All relevant clinical information and medical instructions are provided in a language the patient clearly understands, ensuring safety and understanding at every step.

The minimum stay depends on the method chosen with the medical team:

– Surgical abortion: it is recommended to stay in Barcelona for 2 to 3 days.

– Medical abortion: ideally plan 3 to 4 days to allow the necessary visits.

Before arranging your trip, it is advisable to contact the clinic for personalised guidance.

Yes, in most cases it is safe to fly after an abortion, as long as the initial recovery has been appropriate.

For surgical abortions, it is recommended to wait at least 24–48 hours before flying. For medical abortion, it is best to stay in the city for a few days to complete the recommended follow-up visits.

If any unusual symptoms appear, it is better to postpone travel and consult the medical team.

If the patient is no longer in Spain, the follow-up visit can be carried out by video call with the medical team.

You will receive clear instructions to confirm that the procedure has been completed correctly and, if necessary, follow-up can be coordinated with a trusted doctor in the country of residence.

Yes. Spanish law guarantees the right to end a pregnancy for any woman who is in Spanish territory, regardless of nationality or residency status.

No specific medical visa is required; you only need to meet the usual entry requirements as a tourist.

Yes. The clinic follows World Health Organization (WHO) protocols, recognised as an international standard.

The same safe techniques are used, such as uterine aspiration (MVA), and the same medication (mifepristone and misoprostol) as in leading clinics across Europe and North America, ensuring high-quality, safe medical care.

It is recommended to contact the clinic first before buying plane tickets.

This allows you to coordinate dates, pre-book an appointment, and ensure the medical team’s availability.

Once the schedule is confirmed, it is recommended to proceed with purchasing flights to avoid unexpected issues.

Yes. In Spain, the right to end a pregnancy does not depend on immigration status.

A woman without a health card can access an abortion at a private clinic, covering the cost of the procedure.

Confidentiality is guaranteed, and medical information is not shared with other institutions nor does it affect the patient’s legal situation in the country.

The length of stay depends on the method chosen:

– Surgical abortion: it is recommended to remain in Barcelona at least 2 to 3 days.

– Medical abortion: ideally plan a stay of 3 to 4 days, as it involves at least two medical visits.

Yes. All essential documentation, including informed consent, is provided in English to ensure full understanding of the procedure.

In addition, the medical staff explains each point in detail to ensure the patient signs with complete understanding and confidence.