State abortion laws vary greatly. According to the Guttmacher Institute, states differ on whether:
- Abortion must be performed by a licensed physician.
- Abortion must be performed in a hospital.
- A second physician must participate in the abortion.
- Abortion can be done after a certain time in the pregnancy.
- Partial-birth abortion is banned.
- Public funds pay for the abortion.
- Private insurance covers abortion.
- Providers have a say in their abortion practice options.
- Counseling prior to the abortion should include information on the Breast Cancer link, pain the baby might feel, and negative psychological effects of abortion.
- A waiting period must happen after counseling and before the abortion.
- Parental involvement is required for minors.
The abortion debate is a big one. It’s easy to see that we can’t agree as a nation as to what is safe or right to do. This leaves the patient needing to be an advocate for herself. Depending on your state’s laws, consider your own feelings on who is providing abortion, how you feel about fetal pain, and what risks are non-negotiable. If you would like a brochure on what questions to ask an abortion provider before the procedure, text us: 443-333-8856. Our services are free of charge, and we can provide a free pregnancy test and possibly an ultrasound to verify if your pregnancy is viable.