Alabama is home to some of the strictest abortion laws in the United States. Except for life and health endangerment to the woman, abortion is illegal at all pregnancy stages, including surgical and medication abortion.
You would need to go out of state to get an abortion and the abortion pill. The states surrounding Alabama also have strict abortion laws. Florida is the closest in the region, and they ban abortions after 15 weeks of gestational age.
Read this article for steps to consider before traveling out of state for an abortion and what resources are available locally.
How Much Does Traveling Out of State for an Abortion Cost?
Not only is traveling out of state for an abortion an emotionally taxing effort, but you also need to consider the expense of travel and lodging and any days off work. Depending on how far you travel, you should consider the distance, accommodations, and the cost of meals and gas.
Additionally, you’ll want to consider the expense of the abortion. Without healthcare, abortions can be up to $500 for the medication abortion and several thousand dollars for a surgical abortion.
What Should I Do Before Getting an Abortion?
The good news is that you don’t have to travel out of state to find answers or support. At Etowah Pregnancy Testing Center, we offer no-cost pregnancy services, which you can take advantage of before making your decision.
Ultrasounds and Pregnancy Tests
If you haven’t already taken an at-home pregnancy test, we offer free pregnancy tests so you can confirm your pregnancy before taking any further action.
We also offer ultrasounds that can tell you the pregnancy’s age, location, and health. If the pregnancy is a miscarriage or located outside the uterus (an ectopic pregnancy), you’ll want to seek medical attention and receive treatment other than abortion.
The gestational age of the pregnancy (how long you’ve been pregnant) can tell you if you qualify for a medication abortion. The FDA approved the abortion pill method through 10 weeks (70 days from the first day of your last menstrual period).
Options Counseling
We offer no-cost consultations at our clinic, where you can learn about the risks of abortion, local resources available to you, and alternate options. At Etowah Pregnancy Testing Center, we provide a safe, confidential environment where you can discuss your questions and concerns and be empowered to make the best decision.
Where Can Women Find Help in Alabama?
Although abortion access is not available in Alabama, you have options and support. Here are just a few of the options available to you:
- Medicaid: If you qualify for Medicaid, this will help cover healthcare costs associated with prenatal care and birth.
- WIC (Women’s, Infants, and Children’s) program: If you choose to carry your pregnancy to term, WIC will help provide you with education and resources such as food and diapers. Children are eligible up to the age of 5.
These are only some available resources to you as a pregnant woman in Alabama.
Our center empowers you to make a pregnancy plan you feel confident with. Contact us today to make an appointment!