Abortion options in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, every woman has the right to safely and legally terminate an unwanted pregnancy. Abortion in the Netherlands is allowed up to 22 weeks of pregnancy and can be performed in a hospital as well as in specialised abortion clinics, such as the Bloemenhove clinic in Haarlem and Amsterdam.

Choices

Depending on the gestational age, different methods are available:

• Abortion pill: Suitable up to 9 weeks of pregnancy. This treatment can be completed at home after an initial visit to the clinic.
• Suction curettage: A procedure in which the pregnancy is removed with a thin tube. This method is suitable up to 12 weeks of pregnancy and takes place under local anaesthesia or sedation.
• Second-trimester treatments: Between 13 and 22 weeks, a medical procedure is used with instruments and usually sedation.

The choice of treatment depends on how far advanced the pregnancy is.

Anonymity and access

A key advantage of abortion clinics is that treatments are carried out anonymously. Since 2023, no referral letter or legal reflection period is required, allowing women to make an appointment immediately. This lowers the barrier to seeking help, which is especially important for people who want to maintain privacy.

Safety and aftercare

The procedures are medically safe and do not affect future fertility. After treatment, aftercare is available, such as talks or advice on contraception. Women can go home the same day unless additional observation is required.

Considerations

An abortion is a radical choice that can be emotionally taxing. The clinics therefore offer support in a safe environment, where women can make their choice in confidence. This also applies to minors: no parental consent is needed from the age of 16.

The Netherlands thus offers an accessible and empathetic system for women with unwanted pregnancies, so that they are helped with respect and care.

More information on treatments and how to make an appointment can be found on the Bloemenhove.nl website.