How to Get an Abortion in Florida: Your Guide to Reproductive Freedom

Florida is one of many states in the United States that restricts access to safe and legal abortion providers. However, a person who wishes to have an abortion in Florida still has a right to do so, and this guide aims to help you understand how to access reproductive healthcare in Florida. In this guide, you will learn which abortion providers are available to you, what to expect during an abortion procedure, and what to do if you are facing barriers to accessing care.

When is Abortion Legal in Florida?

Abortion is legal in Florida up to 24 weeks from the last menstrual period (LMP) or until viability, if a physician determines that continuing the pregnancy would threaten the life or health of the woman. After viability, an abortion may only be performed if necessary to preserve the life or health of the woman. The decision to have an abortion is made solely by the woman in consultation with her physician. The state of Florida regulates abortion providers, but cannot place undue burdens on a woman’s access to care.

Which Abortion Providers are Available in Florida?

Here are some of the abortion care providers in Florida:

  • Planned Parenthood of South, East, and North Florida
  • A Woman’s World Medical Center
  • Family Planning of South Central Florida
  • Carafem
  • All Women’s Health Center of North Tampa

You can also access a list of abortion providers in your area by visiting the National Abortion Federation website.

What to Expect When You Decided to Have an Abortion in Florida?

When you arrive at an abortion clinic, you will be given a medical exam and counseling to determine whether the procedure is appropriate for you. The abortion procedure varies depending on factors such as how far along you are in your pregnancy and the type of abortion you will have, which will be determined by you and your healthcare provider.

Some of the different types of abortion available in Florida are:

  • Medication abortion (up to 10 weeks LMP)
  • In-clinic abortion (up to 24 weeks LMP)

It is important to remember that the decision to have an abortion is entirely yours. You will not be pressured into having the procedure and you can change your mind at any time during the process.

What are the Barriers to Accessing Abortion in Florida?

There are several barriers to accessing abortion care in Florida. These include:

  • Restrictive legislation, such as waiting periods and mandatory ultrasounds
  • Lack of access to transportation to a provider
  • Financial barriers, such as lack of insurance coverage and the high cost of care

How to Overcome These Barriers?

You can overcome these barriers by:

  • Looking for a provider who offers financial support or sliding-scale fees
  • Seeking support from an abortion fund
  • Utilizing telemedicine to access medication abortion

The National Network of Abortion Funds and the Women’s Reproductive Rights Assistance Project both provide financial assistance and support to those seeking abortion care.

Conclusion

Access to reproductive healthcare is a fundamental right, and it is important to know your options when you are seeking abortion care. A person who wishes to have an abortion in Florida still has a right to do so, and this guide aims to help you understand how to access reproductive healthcare in Florida. Remember that you have the right to make an informed choice about your reproductive health, and that there are resources available to help you access the care you need.

  • What is the legal limit for an abortion in Florida? 24 weeks LMP or until viability
  • What are some types of abortion available in Florida? Medication abortion (up to 10 weeks LMP) and In-clinic abortion (up to 24 weeks LMP)
  • What are some barriers to accessing abortion care in Florida? Restrictive legislation, lack of access to transportation, and financial barriers
  • How can I overcome these barriers? Looking for financial support, seeking support from an abortion fund, and utilizing telemedicine

References:

– The Guttmacher Institute, “Abortion in Florida,” https://www.guttmacher.org/fact-sheet/state-facts-about-abortion-florida

– Planned Parenthood of South, East, and North Florida, “Abortion,” https://www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-south-east-north-florida/patient-resources/abortion

– National Abortion Federation, “Find a Provider,” https://prochoice.org/think-youre-pregnant/find-a-provider/

– National Network of Abortion Funds, “Get an Abortion,” https://abortionfunds.org/need-abortion/

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