Terminating a pregnancy in the Netherlands — the whole process

If you have already decided, this guide shows exactly what to expect — from the first phone call, through the journey and the procedure itself, to getting home. The whole trip, with the optional transport, usually fits into 20–24 hours.

In brief

The whole visit usually takes 3–5 hours
Most patients travel home the same day
Ultrasound, consultation, procedure and rest in a single visit
Medical documents handed to you in person only

Last updated: July 18, 2026

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Timeline

From the phone call to the journey home

1. First contact

You call or write — our coordinator answers your questions and books a date, usually within 2–5 days. Together you agree a pick-up point in Poland.

2. The journey to the clinic

If you are using our transport, a driver collects you from the agreed pick-up point in Poland. The journey to Utrecht takes 8–10 hours in a comfortable vehicle. You can bring someone with you.

3. Ultrasound and consultation

At the clinic the doctor performs an ultrasound, confirms how far along you are and agrees the method and type of anaesthesia with you. An interpreter is with you throughout the visit.

4. The procedure itself

Carried out under sedation or general anaesthetic — you sleep and feel nothing. The length depends on how far along you are: 5–10 minutes up to 12 weeks, 15–25 minutes after that.

5. Rest

You wake in the recovery room in a nurse's care. Tea, something to eat, a check on how you feel — this lasts from an hour to a few hours, depending on the procedure.

6. The journey home

You receive aftercare instructions and your medical records. The driver takes you back to Poland the same day — the whole trip usually fits into 20–24 hours.

Important

Things worth knowing in advance

No referral is requiredAn ID card or passport is enough — after 12 weeks, a recent ultrasound (no older than 7 days) as well.

Nothing to eat or drink from midnightBecause of the anaesthetic — do not eat or drink from midnight before the procedure.

No driving for 24 hours after the anaestheticIf you are making your own way here, arrange for someone else to drive on the way back.

Full preparation guide →

FAQ

Questions about how the process works

Do I have to stay overnight in the Netherlands?

Usually not — most patients travel home the same day. The whole trip fits into 20–24 hours.

Can I come on my own, without anyone accompanying me?

Yes, that is entirely possible. Nobody has to come with you — the clinic staff are with you at every stage of the visit.

Is the transport from Poland compulsory?

No, transport is entirely optional. Note that the transport we arrange runs from Poland only — from anywhere else you make your own way here.