Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTOP)

What is MTOP? 

Medical termination of pregnancy (MTOP, also known as medication abortion) is a safe, non-surgical method that is used for the termination of early pregnancy.

In Australia, this option is available up to 9 weeks (63 days) of pregnancy and has a high success rate of up to 98%.

The process involves two stages:

• First Stage: Taking a medication called mifepristone, which blocks the hormone necessary for the pregnancy to continue.
• Second Stage: 36-48 hours later, taking a second medication called misoprostol, which causes the contents of the uterus to be expelled.

Medication termination can be completed in your own home.

In Victoria, MTOP is available from general practitioners (GPs) who are registered and authorised to provide it in their clinics.

Fees

This service can be bulk-billed for patients who meet our existing bulk billing policy. For private patients the following charges apply:

• A gap fee of $45 for the first appointment
• A gap fee of $90 for the second appointment (long consultation)
• A gap fee of $45 for the third appointment (can be telehealth).

Process for MTOP

Patients usually need three appointments:

1. First Appointment:

The first appointment involves a discussion with the patient and ordering tests to confirm pregnancy. The patient will be referred for ultrasound and have bloods taken to confirm pregnancy.

2. Second Appointment:

At the second appointment, the GP will discuss the results with the patient. They will also talk about counselling, risks, and emergency care options for medical abortions. Then the MS2Step abortion medications will be prescribed and the patient will be referred to get to a blood test in 2 weeks time.

3. Third Appointment – mandatory follow up: 

At the third appointment, the GP will confirm completion of the termination of pregnancy process based on the blood test results, and conduct an assessment for side effects. This appointment will also include discussion around contraception. This appointment can be arranged via Telehealth and must be booked at the time of the second appointment.

Service information about MTOP

Learn more about MTOP at the links below:

• Better Health Channel: Abortion in Victoria
• Women’s Health Hub: Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTOP)
• My Options: know you options