Can I Take the Abortion Pill if Abortion is Illegal in My State?
The overturn of Roe v. Wade sparked a sudden end to or retraction of abortion rights in more than half of U.S. states. If you’re facing an unwanted pregnancy, you already know how terrible this decision has been for pregnant people and those who love them. But you still have options. You may be able to access the abortion pill via telehealth if you’re still relatively early in pregnancy. But is it legal? And how do you do it? Here’s what you need to know about telehealth abortion in a post-Roe era.
Rules governing the abortion pill where abortion is illegal
If you’re in a state that limits or bans abortion, it likely also limits access to the abortion pill. While laws vary a lot (and the variation helps intensify confusion about pregnant people’s rights), this generally means that:
- A doctor cannot prescribe you an abortion pill.
- A pharmacist cannot fill a prescription for an abortion pill.
- It might be illegal for you to take the abortion pill.
The third prohibition is the hardest to enforce, and varies from state to state. As long as you don’t tell someone you’re taking the pill, it’s nearly impossible to enforce a ban on taking it.
How to access a telehealth abortion where abortion is illegal
Telehealth abortions open access to abortion pills across state lines. You’ll meet briefly with a doctor, then receive pills in the mail. Two of the most reliable sources of abortion pills include:
The earlier you can reach out, the better because there’s often a long wait for abortion pills. And in general, abortion pills work best through the end of the first trimester. So if you think you might be pregnant and don’t want to be, schedule an appointment today.
Learn more about options for getting around restrictive abortion laws.
