Abortion in Hong Kong: Clinics & What You Should Know

Abortion is Legal in Hong Kong – Here’s What Else You Should Know, Including the Process, Costs, and a List of Abortion Clinics

Facing an unplanned pregnancy can be overwhelming, and you may want to consider termination of pregnancy (TOP), commonly known as abortion. Abortion is legal in Hong Kong under specific conditions, but there are regulations and procedures in place to ensure it is conducted safely and lawfully. There are two methods for terminating a pregnancy: medical abortion (abortion pills) and surgical abortion. For details on legality, procedure types, clinics and cost in Hong Kong, read our guide below.

Who Can Get an Abortion in Hong Kong?

Both Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID) holders and non-HKID holders can legally have an abortion in Hong Kong, provided they meet the legal requirements. Termination of Pregnancy (TOP) is regulated under the law and can only be performed under the following conditions:

• The procedure is performed within 24 weeks of pregnancy unless it is necessary to save the life of the pregnant person.
• Two registered medical practitioners agree in good faith that:
  • Continuing the pregnancy would pose a greater risk to the life, physical, or mental health of the pregnant person than termination.
  • There is a substantial risk that the child would suffer from severe physical or mental abnormalities if born.
• The procedure is conducted by a registered doctor at designated facilities, including public hospitals, the Family Planning Association of Hong Kong (FPAHK), or private hospitals.

For minors under 16 or victims of sexual offences who report the case within three months of the incident, doctors may presume that continuing the pregnancy would pose a risk and perform the procedure upon request.

The Abortion Process in Hong Kong

If you are considering an abortion, the first step is to consult a doctor. You can visit the Family Planning Association, a Maternal & Child Health Centre, or a private doctor to discuss your options. During the initial consultation, a nurse or doctor will collect your medical history and confirm your pregnancy. Counselling services may also be available to help you make an informed decision.

If you choose to proceed, the doctor will conduct a physical and pelvic examination to determine your eligibility for the procedure at the selected facility. Two registered medical practitioners must approve the procedure before it can be scheduled. The method of termination—medical or surgical—will depend on factors such as your gestation period, health and personal preferences.

It is important to note that abortion procedures can only be performed by registered doctors at designated hospitals or clinics. Illegal abortions or self-induced termination carry severe health risks and legal consequences.

Abortion Pills in Hong Kong

The main abortion pills administered in Hong Kong for medical abortions are Mifepristone and Misoprostol. Medical abortions are available for pregnancies of less than 10 weeks. The process involves taking 200 mg of oral mifepristone, which blocks the pregnancy hormone (progesterone) and prepares the uterus for expulsion. After 48 hours, 400 µg of sublingual misoprostol is administered, requiring the person to place two tablets under her tongue and allow them to dissolve for 30 minutes before swallowing.

If the abortion has not occurred within 4 hours of the initial misoprostol dose, a second dose of 400 µg of sublingual misoprostol is given. This method helps reduce the ongoing pregnancy rate while minimising gastrointestinal discomfort and other side effects. The process results in uterine contractions, progressive bleeding from the womb and eventual expulsion of pregnancy tissue, similar to a heavy menstrual period.

Follow-up visits are required to ensure the abortion is complete. In cases of incomplete abortion, surgical intervention may be necessary.

Cost of Abortion in Hong Kong

The cost of abortion in Hong Kong varies depending on whether you are a Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID) holder and the type of facility you choose. Public hospitals and the Family Planning Association (FPAHK) offer more affordable options for HKID holders, with fees typically ranging from around $3,800 at FPAHK to $120 per day in public hospitals.

Non-HKID holders generally pay higher fees, with FPAHK costs starting from $5,000 and public hospitals charge around $5,100 per day. Private hospitals and clinics, which provide quicker services, charge significantly more, with prices starting from around $22,000 or higher depending on the procedure and facility.

Prices are approximate and subject to change, so it’s important to check with the respective facility for the most up-to-date pricing.

Public Hospitals That Perform Abortions

Public hospitals only perform abortions under medical necessity. Facilities include:

• Queen Mary Hospital: Performs abortions up to 20 weeks.
• Other public hospitals: Only under medical emergencies.

For more information, refer to the Maternal and Child Health Centres website.

Private Hospitals and Clinics in Hong Kong

If you’re seeking abortion services in private hospitals or clinics in Hong Kong, here’s a list of options that provide high-quality medical care. Note that costs and services may vary, so it’s important to contact the hospitals directly for details and the most updated information.

Family Planning Association of Hong Kong (FPAHK)

One of the most affordable options for abortion services, FPAHK offers both medical and surgical abortions for pregnancies up to 10 weeks. The process includes counselling services, a consultation to determine the appropriate procedure, and follow-up care. Costs for HKID holders typically start from around $3,800, while non-HKID holders pay from $5,000. If you cannot receive the procedure at FPAHK for any reason, the doctor may refer you to a public hospital.

10/F., Southorn Centre, 130 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2575 4477, www.famplan.org.hk, [email protected]

Gleneagles Hong Kong Hospital

Located in Wong Chuk Hang on Hong Kong Island South, Gleneagles provides cutting-edge medical technologies and clinical services for over 35 specialities. It offers private and personalised medical services in a modern setting.

1 Nam Fung Path, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong, 3153 9000, Whatsapp: 6452 3581, gleneagles.hk

Hong Kong Adventist Hospital – Stubbs Road

This private hospital is known for its advanced medical equipment and high standards of care. It offers a range of minimally invasive and complex surgeries, as well as other specialised services in a modern facility.

40 Stubbs Road, Central, Hong Kong, 3651 8888, www.hkah.org.hk

Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital

Established in 1922, this hospital is one of Hong Kong’s leading private hospitals, offering over 30 speciality centres and state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic services.

2 Village Road, Happy Valley, Hong Kong, 2572 0211, www.hksh.com

Matilda International Hospital

Located on The Peak, Matilda International Hospital is known for its personalised care and global reputation in women’s health, general surgery and maternity care.

41 Mount Kellett Road, The Peak, Hong Kong, 2849 0111, www.matilda.org

Union Hospital

Situated in the Eastern New Territories, Union Hospital provides comprehensive medical services, including minimally invasive procedures, day therapy and surgical services, in a comfortable and modern facility.

18 Fu Kin Street, Tai Wai, Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong, 2608 3388, www.union.org

CUHK Medical Centre

A non-profit teaching hospital under The Chinese University of Hong Kong, CUHK Medical Centre offers a wide range of medical services with a focus on efficiency and patient-centred care.

9 Chak Cheung Street, Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong, 3946 6888, www.cuhkmc.hk

Additional Support Services

If you are unsure about continuing with your pregnancy, the following organisations offer counselling and support:

The Birthright Society, G/F, Cheung Tung House, Tung Tau Estate(2), Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2337 5551, [email protected]

Mother’s Choice, multiple locations in Hong Kong, 3915 5750