Abortions can only be carried out in NHS hospitals or licensed clinics and are generally free of charge, though some women do opt to pay for private care. Most are carried out before 24 weeks of pregnancy, and the earlier they take place, the simpler and safer they are.

As well as this medical treatment, there is a surgical option, which involves removing the pregnancy from the uterus via the cervix using either suction (up to 15 weeks) or forceps (between 15 and 24 weeks of pregnancy). 

The main risks associated with an abortion are uterine infection, some or all of the pregnancy remaining in the uterus and excessive bleeding. Women who have had a surgical procedure also have a risk of their uterus or cervix being damaged. If all goes smoothly, future fertility is unaffected.