Gynaecology procedures
Most gynaecology services are offered at the Gynaecology Procedures Unit at Christchurch Hospital.
Abortion services
Abortions are available on the West Coast for pregnancies up to 12 weeks. If your pregnancy is more than 12 weeks you will be referred to the Gynaecology Procedure Unit (GPU) at Christchurch Women’s Hospital.
Early medical abortion via Telehealth
This option is for you if you are 9 weeks or less pregnant and meet the criteria to take the medication at home. The medications are sent to you, or alternatively we can make arrangements for you to pick them up. You will receive a follow up phone call from the Gynaecology Procedure Unit.
Early medical abortion outpatients
This option is for you if you are are 9 weeks or less pregnant and do not wish to have a telehealth abortion or do not meet the criteria. You will see a doctor at Te Nikau Hospital & Health Centre and will receive a follow up phone call from the Gynaecology Procedure Unit.
Surgical abortion
This option is if you are 12 weeks or less pregnant. Itis performed with sedation and local anaesthesia. You will have an initial virtual appointment with a doctor from Te Nīkau Hospital & Health Centre before you come to Te Nīkau Hospital for the procedure.
Information on the types of abortion available (internal link)
You can self-refer for an abortion or via your healthcare provider or sexual health clinic.
Contact us
phone: 03 378 6386
hours: Monday to Thursday 8am to 4pm.
If the phone call goes to an answering service leave the following details:
- your name
- date of birth
- address and contact phone number
- New Zealand Residency status
- next of Kin and contact number.
We know it can be hard to make a decision about what to do, and we are here to provide support. Counselling is available should you wish to explore feelings and issues related to an unplanned pregnancy and the options available.
Counselling services are focused on supporting you with your decision. This is a professional, confidential and free service.
Counselling sessions are available providing time for discussion of options, procedures and anxieties. You are not required to have counselling, but it is available.
Pre-decision counselling is also offered if you are unsure of your decision. Post abortion counselling is also available.
Qualified Pregnancy Counsellor/Social Workers are based in Greymouth, Westport and Hokitika. They provide pregnancy counselling to everyone from Karamea to Haast.