As states around the country limit and eliminate access to abortion, we in New York are striving to ensure that all people receive the care they require. Prohibiting abortion does not eliminate the necessity for it. Instead, it delays or prohibits access to abortion, particularly for those struggling to make ends meet. Reproductive health care allows people to plan their futures and participate fairly in society. This includes birth control, abortion, and prenatal and postpartum care. Inside, you'll find information about your abortion rights under New York law, as well as resources for individuals seeking care.

Note: This article is not a replacement for legal advice.

What are your rights to abortion in New York?

When a person decides to end their pregnancy, they deserve safe and inexpensive abortion care – as soon as possible and as late as needed.

In June 2022, the Supreme Court overruled Roe v. Wade, effectively abolishing the federal constitutional right to abortion. In response, numerous states have prohibited or severely restricted abortion care. However, New York law safeguards abortion rights.

Throughout their pregnancy, the legislation allows them to receive care as needed. Healthcare practitioners may provide abortion care to patients 24 weeks after the start of their pregnancy without justifying. The New York State Department of Health (DOH) defines pregnancy as beginning with the implantation of a fertilized egg. This means that under the law, 24 weeks from the start of pregnancy equals 27-28 weeks from a person's last menstrual cycle.

After that, they may give abortion care if a patient's health or life is in danger, or if the fetus is not viable. The DOH defines "health at risk" generally as any factor that has an impact on a person's well-being.

What Are the Types of Abortion?

Abortion is generally classified into two types: surgical and nonsurgical. Non-surgical abortion lasts up to ten weeks and is generally known as the Abortion Pill (RU-486). In New York, surgical abortion is an in-patient treatment that can be performed for up to 24 weeks.

A surgical abortion performed without first testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or infections (STIs) may result in problems. If bacteria from an STD or STI enters your uterus through your cervix during an abortion, it may result in pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). As a result, getting an STD/STI screening before undergoing a surgical abortion may help preserve your reproductive health.

Everyone's experience with abortion is unique. If you are still coping with unresolved issues, such as anxiety or sadness, following your abortion, our trained advocates are available to speak with you in a confidential, judgment-free setting. You can make a free appointment with them at any time.

Confirm Your Pregnancy

The great majority of abortions occur before the twelfth week of pregnancy. However, the rate of miscarriage in the first trimester is shockingly high. The probability of miscarriage occurs in 15-20% of all pregnancies. An ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy could help you make an informed decision regarding abortion. If you decide to do it, you may consult with a doctor, who you may find by searching “abortion clinic around me”.

Are There Side Effects?

Most abortion providers will offer patients a document outlining the physical symptoms and side effects that may occur after having an abortion. However, a physician may not address the emotional consequences of this decision. Though major medical problems are uncommon, some women describe unresolved emotions of guilt, regret, or worry in the weeks and months after their abortion, while others have experienced longer-term bouts of melancholy.

How Often Can I Take Abortion Medication?

Abortion medicines (mifepristone and misoprostol) are effective at terminating pregnancies up to 10 weeks gestation. Each unplanned pregnancy is treated only once. Only individual circumstances determine the frequency with which a person can use abortion medication.

If you become pregnant again, you have the option of getting another abortion. A healthcare provider can go over the possibilities for your specific scenario.

If you are experiencing recurring unwanted pregnancies, talk to your doctor about long-term birth control choices.

Many contraceptive methods are available to avoid unplanned pregnancies.