Abortion in the United States: FAQ Part 1

If you are seeking to terminate your pregnancy, it’s likely that you have many questions. No matter your reason for seeking abortion care, here are some basics. Stay tuned for Part 2.

Where is my nearest provider?

While it may seem like a question that can be answered with a simple Internet search, finding your nearest abortion provider can be a bit more complicated. Crisis pregnancy centers, or CPCs, often appear in search results. While they may seem to offer abortion care or referrals, their primary purpose is to dissuade people from getting abortions by shaming, misleading, and even outright lying.

CPCs try to make themselves look as much like real abortion providers as possible, so it’s important to be on the lookout for these fake clinics. In order to verify that a clinic is legitimate, check the National Abortion Federation’s directory. You can also get in touch with your local abortion fund, and they can help you find a reputable provider.

How long do I have to wait?

Many states have a waiting period (usually 24 hours but sometimes longer) between a counseling session and actually getting an abortion. Some states require the counseling session to be done in person, while others allow it to be done over the phone. Your clinic and/or local abortion fund can help you navigate this process.

What if I’m under 18?

Most states require some sort of parental involvement if you are under 18 years old. Most require parental consent, but some only require that your parents be notified. A few allow another adult relative to give consent. Most states also have a way around these laws; this is usually done with a judicial bypass (asking a judge for permission). Most of the states that require parental consent for a minor to obtain an abortion have exceptions for medical emergencies, and some allow minors to get an abortion in cases of incest, abuse, neglect, or assault. Here is a helpful chart you can use to determine what the laws are in your state.

Women Help Women believes that all people should have access to medically and scientifically accurate information surrounding all aspects of abortion and contraception and believes women should have agency over their own reproductive choices. Our organization provides accurate information about what exactly a medical abortion with pills is, the pills’ effectiveness,  how to use the pills, and what to expect after using abortion pills. If you are pregnant and do not want to be, get in touch with us online at www.womenhelp.org or by email at info@womenhelp.org.