If you are pregnant and considering abortion, it’s normal to have lots of questions.
This step-by-step abortion guide can help you get started. You can also contact an NJFPL health center near you to get answers to your questions.
Step One: Know Your State’s Laws
Abortion laws are different in every state. First, check to see whether abortion is legal in your state.
In NJ, abortion is safe and legal. You can have an abortion at any time during pregnancy.
The good news is that you can come to NJ for an abortion if it is illegal in your state. When you are in NJ, only the NJ laws apply for abortion.
Step Two: Make an Appointment
NJFPL supports abortion care in 24 health centers in NJ. Find the abortion care center you want to visit. Then, contact them to schedule an appointment.
Step Three: Know the Cost
If you have health insurance, it’s possible your plan may cover abortion. Call your health insurance company to determine the cost.
If abortion services aren’t covered by your health insurance plan, or you do not have insurance, or you do not want to use your insurance, don’t worry. Many abortion care centers have other options to help you cover the cost. Some health centers can help with travel costs to and from your appointment.
Step Four: Prepare
The next step is to prepare for your abortion service. In NJ, you have options to either take abortion pills or have an abortion procedure.
You can take abortion pills up to 11 weeks of pregnancy in NJ. Your provider will provide you with instructions for how to take the pills.
An abortion procedure takes place in a health center. It lasts about five to ten minutes, but you should expect to be at the health center longer for education, tests, procedure preparation and recovery.
Make sure you have menstrual products (pads) on hand, as you may experience cramping, spotting, or bleeding. Also, prepare to purchase over-the-counter pain medicines like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help reduce pain and provide relief and comfort.
Step Five: Recover
After the abortion is complete, you may have cramping and bleeding, which is normal. These symptoms may last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.
Your bleeding will gradually lighten and end with time. You may experience some pain or discomfort, which can be managed with pain medicines.
Please contact your provider if you are concerned and/or experience any other symptoms. If you have nausea, vomiting, fever or diarrhea for more than 24 hours after your abortion, it’s possible you may have an infection. In any case, it will help to contact your provider.
You may feel emotional after having an abortion, which is also normal. Whatever feelings you have, know that you are not alone and that NJFPL is here to support and help you.
NJFPL is dedicated to providing access to sexual and reproductive health services for all people regardless of their race, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, income or insurance status. Visit NJFPL today to find an abortion care center near you.
If you are experiencing any form of abuse and/or violence, please know that you are not alone. Help is available.
The New Jersey Coalition to End Domestic Violence offers lifesaving tools and immediate support 24/7 to empower victims and survivors of domestic violence to find safety and live free of abuse. Their toll-free 24/7 hotline is available at 1-800-572-SAFE (7233) or text LOVEIS to 22522.
The New Jersey Coalition Against Sexual Assault offers medical, legal, and support services for survivors of sexual violence. Their toll-free 24/7 hotline is available at 1-800-601-7200.
Your safety comes first, all calls are confidential. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.