Ending a pregnancy
Last updated on June 30, 2022An abortion is a medical procedure and an essential part of health care in B.C. A safe abortion is a medical right in B.C.
Last updated: June 30, 2022
On this page:
- Every person has a medical right to an abortion
- How to access an abortion in B.C.
- Types of abortion
- I want to talk to someone
Every person has a medical right to an abortion
An abortion is a medical procedure. Under the Access to Abortion Services Act and Canada Health Act, every person has a medical right to abortion.
You can self-refer to abortion care
You don't need a referral from a health care provider to access abortion services in B.C. You don't need parental consent to have an abortion.
How to access an abortion in B.C.
To access abortion services in B.C., you can either:
Call or visit HealthLink BC
HealthLink BC provides free, confidential health information and advice.
Call: 811 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Translators are available
Telephone for the Deaf: 711
Video Relay Services (VRS) sign language interpretation is free for people who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech-impaired.
Talk to your health care provider
Your family doctor or nurse practitioner can give you advice on pregnancy options.
Your local health authority can help you find abortion services in your area.
If you can't talk to your family doctor or nurse practitioner, Options for Sexual Health can help you access abortion services.
If you have to travel outside your home community to access abortion services, you may be able to get your travel costs reimbursed.
Types of abortion
Two types of abortion are available in B.C.:
- Medical abortion (the abortion pill)
- Surgical abortion
Which type of abortion is right for you depends on several factors, including your personal preference.
Medical abortion
Medical abortion pills are free and available from pharmacies throughout B.C. You need a prescription from a doctor or nurse practitioner.
Medical abortion is covered under PharmaCare for B.C. residents.
Surgical abortion
A surgical abortion is provided through abortion clinics, doctors and hospitals.
Surgical abortion is covered under the Medical Services Plan (MSP) for B.C. residents.
I want to talk to someone
VictimLinkBC provides information and referral services and immediate crisis support to victims of family and sexual violence.
The B.C. Women's Hospital's Pregnancy Options Service offers free, non-judgmental and compassionate support and information.
Call: 1-888-875-3163 Monday to Friday, 7:30 am to 4 pm