An unplanned pregnancy can send anyone into a panic. We know how overwhelming it can be, but don’t let fear make any decisions for you! Make sure you get all the facts on abortion in Florida, so you can make an informed and empowered decision!
In this article, we’re exploring the Florida abortion law and the importance of ultrasounds in your unplanned pregnancy journey!
We provide free ultrasounds at Esteem Women’s Center!
Is Abortion Legal in Florida? Do I Need an Ultrasound Before Abortion in Florida?
As of March 2023, abortion is legal in Florida for up to 15 weeks of pregnancy[1]. Additionally, an ultrasound is required prior to abortion in Florida. Aside from the law, we strongly recommend receiving an ultrasound. Keep reading to find out why!
Why Do I Need an Ultrasound?
You may be wondering why you’d want an ultrasound, especially if you’re thinking about terminating the pregnancy. The answer is that ultrasounds provide the insight needed to make an informed and empowered decision for an unplanned pregnancy! They determine two key things about your pregnancy: viability and gestational age.
What is Pregnancy Viability?
A viable pregnancy means that the pregnancy is progressing properly. For example, at about six weeks, the embryo should have a heartbeat[2]. The goal is to rule out a nonviable pregnancy, such as a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy—in either case, abortion isn’t needed.
What is Gestational Age?
How far along am I? Your ultrasound can answer that question! It’s important to know how far along you are (also known as your gestational age), as Florida law prohibits abortion beyond # weeks. If you intend to travel out of state for an abortion, be aware that the surrounding areas may prohibit abortion beyond a certain point in your pregnancy as well. Additionally, you can’t take the abortion pill past 10 weeks of pregnancy[3].
Consider receiving a free ultrasound at Esteem Women’s Center! If your ultrasound determines that you’re too far along for abortion, our compassionate client advocates will help you explore all of your pregnancy options, so you can make the best choice for your health and future!
Free Ultrasounds in St. Augustine, FL
No matter where you are in your unplanned pregnancy journey, you aren’t alone! Our trained ultrasound technicians are here to provide the support and vital information needed to make an informed decision.
We offer free pregnancy tests, free ultrasounds, and a safe, compassionate space to explore your pregnancy options.
Don’t wait to get the care you deserve! To schedule your appointment, please call or text (904) 494-8443!
Please be aware that Esteem Women’s Center does not provide or refer for abortion services. This article is not meant to be a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Our limited ultrasound examination is strictly for the purposes of confirming your pregnancy, detecting fetal cardiac activity, and estimating gestational age. We cannot diagnose any medical problems you may be experiencing, pregnancy-related or otherwise.
Sources
- Florida Pro-Life Laws. Americans United for Life. (2022, November 10). Retrieved from https://aul.org/law-and-policy/state-spotlight/florida/
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, September 3). Slide Show: Fetal Ultrasound. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/multimedia/fetal-ultrasound/sls-20076294?s=3#
- Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. (2021, December 16). Mifeprex (Mifepristone). U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/mifeprex-mifepristone-information