
Abortion. The word alone stirs up countless emotions.
There is no question that the decision to have an abortion is emotionally driven and deeply personal. With so many fears and unknowns that accompany an unplanned pregnancy, it might feel like having an abortion would be the easiest thing to do. But it’s not as simple as you might think.
In the state of Florida, while abortion is legal, specific restrictions govern the procedure. There are steps you need to take to protect your health and laws that need to be considered before choosing abortion.
5 FLORIDA ABORTION RESTRICTIONS YOU NEED TO KNOW
1. State Directed Counseling
Abortions are medical procedures that come with emotional and physical risks. It is necessary to be fully prepared before jumping into any decision that will impact your health.
At A Woman’s Place Medical Clinic, our staff is ready to listen and support you through all of your pregnancy options. We will educate you, care for your specific needs, and even help you have challenging conversations with loved ones.
2. Abortion Costs
There are different types of abortion procedures and fees based on the stage of pregnancy. When you make an appointment at one of our four locations, you will receive free education and services to give you the medically accurate information you need.
Our no-cost services include:
- Medical-grade pregnancy testing to accurately confirm pregnancy
- Limited obstetrical ultrasounds
- Pregnancy consultation and education
- STD/STI Testing
You are more than a number to us. We care for your mind, body, and spirit in a safe and confidential environment.
3. Required Parental Consent for Minors
Florida law requires something called “actual notice.” This means that a parent or legal guardian must be informed directly by a physician of a minor’s intent to have an abortion.
So now here you are, facing life’s curveball head-on, and it’s terrifying. This unexpected turn is scary enough, now throw in having to tell your family, and the anxiety levels skyrocket.
The best thing you can do is take one step forward and make an appointment with our compassionate staff. With their support, you will be prepared to have those uncomfortable conversations with the people you love.
4. Required Ultrasound
An ultrasound exam is required by law before having an abortion procedure.
Our trained staff provides free limited obstetrical ultrasounds to check for a viable pregnancy and accurately determine gestational age. Remember, the gestational age of the fetus impacts the cost and type of abortion procedures you may be eligible for. It is vital to know how advanced your pregnancy is.
5. No Third Trimester Abortions
The decision to have an abortion is painfully difficult, but it is one that needs to be made within a specific timeframe. With the exception of life or health endangerment, no abortions will be performed after 24 weeks of pregnancy.
Because time is of the essence, if you’re considering having an abortion, immediately contact the trusted staff at A Woman’s Place Medical Clinic.
We're here for you
The most empowering thing you can do right now is equip yourself with medically accurate information.
At A Woman’s Place Medical Clinic, you will meet with trained professionals who understand the dynamics that accompany an unplanned pregnancy. We are a safe, supportive, confidential place to get the information you need. Although we do not perform or refer for abortions, our staff will provide care that supports your specific needs.
While it might feel like you’re alone in this decision, you’re not. We’re here for you without judgment, only support. Don’t let fear stop you from getting the help you need. Take a deep breath and make your appointment at one of our four Tampa Bay locations.
Resources
Guttmacher Institute: Florida State Facts About Abortion
The 2021 Florida Statutes - “Actual Notice”
The 2021 Florida Statutes - Third Trimester