Five Things to Know Before You Travel Out of State for an Abortion
If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy and considering an out-of-state abortion, there are essential details you need to know before you plan your trip and procedure.
Before you schedule your out-of-town abortion appointment or medical abortion, consider obtaining a free ultrasound with us first. This can save you time and money and will help you to make the most informed choice possible.
What do I need to Know Before I Travel for an Abortion?
1. Age
The age of your pregnancy will determine whether or not you are eligible for an abortion in Florida. If you are past 6-weeks gestation, you will not be able to obtain an abortion in Florida. The gestational age of your pregnancy will determine not only where you are eligible to get an abortion but also the type of abortion you are eligible for since options like a medical abortion (aka the abortion pill) are only available for women under 10-weeks gestation. If you are further along in your pregnancy seek this type of abortion, you greatly increase your risk for serious medical complications.
2. Location
It is critical to rule out an ectopic pregnancy before seeking an abortion. An ectopic pregnancy, which is when the embryo attaches and grows outside the uterus, is life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. If you seek an abortion with an ectopic pregnancy, you place yourself at serious risk for medical complications. With that said, you can still get ectopic pregnancy care in Florida because ectopic pregnancy care is NOT an abortion. You cannot be denied medical help for an ectopic pregnancy.
3. Viability
Roughly 26% of pregnancies end in miscarriage. If your pregnancy is not viable and you miscarry naturally, you will not need an abortion. Miscarriage care is legal at any gestational age in Florida, and you can never be denied care for a miscarriage.
4. Abortion Costs and Risks
The cost of an abortion can vary greatly depending on your situation. Travel costs on top of the cost of the procedure itself can add up quickly, so it’s important to know those costs in advance. Additionally, an abortion procedure comes with a number of potential risks, some of them severe, that are worth taking into consideration before you travel.
Risks for a medical abortion (the abortion pill) include:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
Risks for a surgical abortion include:
- Uterine perforation (which is when a surgical instrument pokes a hole in your uterus)
- Uterine scarring (which can cause painful periods and future infertility)
- Cervical damage
- Infection
5. Your Options
Before you travel for an abortion, take the time to slow down and learn about all your options. There may be options and resources you have not yet considered, and you want to make sure you are not making a decision out of desperation but rather out of strength. An informed decision is an empowered decision.
Next Steps
Schedule an Ultrasound
An ultrasound is required before you can have an abortion as it is the only way to determine the gestation age, location, and viability of your pregnancy. Learn more about the benefits of an ultrasound HERE or contact us to schedule your free pregnancy confirmation ultrasound.
Talk to a Professional
Facing an unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming, and it might seem like abortion is the best option to make this all go away. But you’re not alone in this, and you have options.
At First Coast Women’s Services, we’re here to offer support and free resources—including limited ultrasounds—that can help you make an informed decision. Text us today at 904-262-6300 to schedule a free, confidential appointment with a nurse to talk about your options.