16 Oct How to Find an ‘Abortion Clinic Near Me’
Since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, each state now makes its own laws about abortion. This means that in some states, abortion is still legal, while in others, it’s restricted or banned. If you’re looking for an abortion clinic near you, here’s what you need to know to find the right care.
Step 1: Check if Abortion is Legal in Your State
Before searching for an abortion clinic, it’s important to check whether abortion is legal in your state. Some states allow abortion under certain conditions, while others have banned it altogether. Go here for an up-to-date look at abortion laws by state.
If abortion is legal where you live, you can easily search online for terms like “abortion clinic near me” or “best abortion provider” to find top-rated clinics in your area.
Step 2: What if Abortion Isn’t Legal in Your State?
If abortion is not legal in your state, you’ll need to travel to another state where it is legal. However, the closest state by distance might not always be the best choice. Each state has its own laws, and some may have restrictions such as waiting periods or limits on how far along in pregnancy you can be to get an abortion.
For example, if you live in Georgia and need an abortion, North Carolina is the nearest state where it is legal. But North Carolina only allows abortions up to 12 weeks and requires a 72-hour waiting period. This means you would need to visit the clinic twice—once for the initial appointment and then again after the waiting period. If you are over 12 weeks pregnant, you would not be able to get an abortion there at all. In this case, you might need to travel to a state like Illinois, where clinics offer abortions up to 18 weeks with no waiting period, allowing you to complete the process in one visit.
Step 3: Research Clinics and Laws
Finding the right clinic may take a little research. Start by looking at nearby states where abortion is legal. Check the rules for each state to make sure they provide care for how far along you are in your pregnancy. Some states have waiting periods or other requirements, so make sure to look up these details as well.
You can also search online for terms like “best abortion clinics in [state or city]” to find clinics that you can contact. Be sure to consider your travel options, whether by car, bus, train, or airplane, and factor in travel time and costs.
Step 4: Plan Ahead
Since finding an abortion clinic may involve traveling, it’s important to plan ahead. Consider the time and costs of traveling to a state where abortion is legal. Make sure the clinic can provide care for how far along you are in your pregnancy and see if they require multiple visits.
By doing some research and planning, you can find a clinic that meets your needs and get the care you need.