"Amazing care during such a difficult time"

I was shocked and scared to find out I was 21 weeks preganant during a consultation at my local NHS clinic. They told me a termination was technically still legal but I would have to go out of county to be treated. They didn't know how soon I would be seen so obviously I was stressed that it would take me over the 24 week limit before I could be seen. Luckily BPAS in Richmond could see me 10 days later. My first appointment was on the Thursday- i was seen 5 minutes after my appointment time and looked after by some lovely, kind nurses. I first had to have another scan to confirm the gestation and it was as expected. I then had to confirm lots of medical questions and complete the paperwork. I was then sent back to the waiting room whilst they got electronic consent of 2 registered doctors in the UK. About an hour later, I went back in with the 2 lovely nurses to have the Dilapan (cervical dilators) inserted. It wasn't painful, just uncomfortable and I was kept informed at all times of what was happening. 4 were inserted and I was sent to have a drink and relax for 20 minutes. I went back to the hotel and didn't do much for the rest of the day- there was mild cramping and a bit of bleeding but nothing too bad. The next day, I was due to have the D and E surgery. I arrived at 08:30 and didn't actually have the procedure until 1:30pm. You are told to expect to be at the clinic all day so it wasn't an issue at all. I was sent upstairs and given a cotton gown and slippers and put my clothes and belongings into a locker. Another lovely nurse took me into the pre-op area where the anaesthetist inserts the cannula into your hand- he was lovely and chatty too. I was also given an antacid to prevent any sickness. I was then wheeled into the theatre and listened whilst my details were read to the surgical team. The anaesthetist then told me I was about to go to sleep... next thing I know, I wake up in the recovery area. I couldn't believe it was over and done with. There was no pain, just a bit of cramping like a period. I then sat in a reclining chair for about half an hour and was offered biscuits and squash and a magazine. They also take your blood pressure. I felt absolutely fine and was helped to get my clothes and belongings. The final step was being given some antibiotics and pain relief to take home. I genuinely cannot believe how smooth the process was. Finding out I was pregnant so late on made me feel ashamed but each member of staff was so understanding and caring, you are absolutely supported in your decision whatever your situation. Every member of staff through the whole process was kind and friendly which makes the situation a lot less terrifying. The nurses even made a point of coming to say goodbye as I was leaving. I can't thank you enough for taking care of me. I feel so lucky and grateful to live in a country where women have this kind of help available to them.