This section covers information, counselling and linkage to additional care or services, any or all of which may be needed or desired before, during and/or after the abortion procedure or process.

The provision of scientifically accurate and easy-to-understand information to all women undergoing an abortion, and non-directive voluntary counselling to anyone who requests it, is a core element of good-quality, human rights-compliant abortion services (see Chapter 1, section 1.3.2). The provision of information and counselling (where desired), as well as access or referrals to other related services, starts pre-abortion but should continue across the continuum of care. In addition, everyone should be provided with all the necessary information to make an informed decision regarding the use of contraception.