Pregnancy

Pregnancy Testing

If you think you may be pregnant, you can carry out most pregnancy tests from the first day of a missed period, if you are not using any hormonal contraception.

If you don’t have regular periods; do not know when your period is due, or use hormonal contraception, the earliest accurate time to do a test is three weeks (21 days) from the last time that you had unprotected sex.

Tests done less than 3 weeks from the last unprotected sex are not accurate.

Pregnancy testing can be provided at our service to people aged under 18; this is free and confidential. Some doctors surgeries may provide free pregnancy testing. You can also buy a test from a pharmacist or supermarket.

Deciding What To Do

If you are pregnant and are unsure as to whether you want to continue with the pregnancy your GP can discuss this further with you.

There is some useful information on Brook’s webpage “Making A Decision About Pregnancy” that suggests things you may want to think about, to help you make a decision.

Termination (Abortion)

If you have a positive home test and are unsure if you want to continue with the pregnancy, you can self-refer to a local termination service.

Termination can be medical (tablets) or surgical.

Counselling can be provided if needed, to help you make a decision.

The termination can be confidential from your partner/parents.

Termination of pregnancy is free of charge on the NHS, and any age can access this.

Continuing a Pregnancy

If you choose to continue your pregnancy, you will be supported by your local NHS midwifery team. Find more information on your NHS pregnancy journey, including how to refer yourself into the service, on the NHS.uk website.