Dr. Patricia Lohr:

The best evidence we have for the role of contraception in reducing subsequent unintended pregnancies is receipt of the method at the time of the abortion. A number of studies have been done, looking at different models of contraceptive counselling before the abortion. None of the variations, whether specialist counselling or dedicated counselling, has been associated with the reduction in subsequent unintended pregnancies or abortion, particularly in the long term. We know that when women receive the method and start it straight away, that is associated with reduced risk. The only way that can happen is if the contraceptive counselling happens before the abortion. Every woman in our service is asked whether she wishes to use a method of family planning. If she does, we engage her in a discussion about which method of contraception would be right for her and we aim to provide it at the time of the abortion so that she is immediately and optimally protected.