What Are My Abortion Rights?

Facing an unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming. Understanding your legal rights on top of that can make everything even more complicated. Whether you are processing the news or weighing your options, you deserve clear and compassionate information.

This guide walks you through the most important questions about abortion rights and pregnancy decision-making, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

Is Abortion a Constitutionally Protected Right?

Abortion is not a constitutionally protected right in all 50 states. 

Following the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2022 decision overturning Roe v. Wade, there is no longer a federal constitutional right to abortion. States now possess the authority to legalize, regulate, or ban abortion. 

Click the button below to learn more about the abortion laws in your state.

Can You Be Forced to Get an Abortion?

No one has the right to force you to have an abortion — not a partner, a parent, a family member, an employer, or anyone else. Coercing someone into an abortion against their will is illegal in the United States and is considered reproductive coercion.

This protection works in every direction. Just as no one can force you to end a pregnancy, no one can force you to continue one (within legal limits). You alone make the final decision about your pregnancy.

What to Do Before Considering Abortion

Making a fully informed decision is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. That means gathering information, giving yourself time to reflect, and exploring every option before moving forward.

Here are two essential steps.

Step 1: Get an Ultrasound

Before making any decision about your pregnancy, you need to receive an ultrasound to find out how far along you are and whether the pregnancy is viable.

• Gestational Age: This refers to how far along you are in your pregnancy. It’s critical because the abortion pill is only FDA-approved for pregnancies up to 10 weeks gestation (70 days or less since the first day of your last menstrual period).¹

• Viability: An ultrasound determines whether your pregnancy is viable and growing inside the uterus by detecting the fetal heartbeat. If a heartbeat can’t be detected, it may mean a miscarriage (spontaneous loss of pregnancy) is occurring. This requires alternative medical care.

It could also mean the pregnancy is growing outside the uterus, known as an ectopic pregnancy. This is a life-threatening situation that requires emergency care.

Pregnancy Decision Line can connect you with a local pregnancy center that provides free ultrasounds. Call now to get started. 

*Important note: Please be aware that this article is not meant to substitute for medical advice or treatment. The purpose of a limited ultrasound exam is to identify a pregnancy inside the uterus, detect the fetal heartbeat, and estimate how far along you are. If there is no detectable heartbeat, it may indicate a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy is occurring. If a fetal heartbeat cannot be detected during your appointment, the pregnancy center staff will provide appropriate referrals for follow-up care and treatment.

Step 2: Explore All Three Pregnancy Options

Once you’ve confirmed your pregnancy’s viability and gestational age, the next step is to genuinely explore all three options: abortion, adoption, and parenting. Even if you feel pulled in one direction, learning about each path can help you feel more confident in your final decision.

Abortion

If you’re considering abortion, it’s important to:

• Receive an ultrasound first (to confirm viability and gestational age)
• Understand your abortion rights in your state
• Understand the different types of abortion and how they work
• Understand the risks of abortion
• Consider how this decision could affect you mentally and emotionally

This decision should never be made under pressure or out of fear. Take time to ask questions and get answers from medical professionals before moving forward.

Adoption

Adoption means carrying the pregnancy to term and placing the child in the care of another family. There are three types: open, semi-open, and closed adoption. Each offers a different level of ongoing contact between you, the adoptive family, and the child.

Adoption is a deeply personal decision. Speaking with an adoption attorney or agency can help you understand the process, your rights before and after birth, and how to find a placement that fits your values. 

Asking questions is not a commitment to an adoption plan. Our pregnancy center partners can help you explore adoption and refer you to an adoption agency for more information. 

Parenting

If you’re considering parenting, it helps to think honestly about your:

• Financial situation
• Support network
• Living circumstances
• Personal and professional goals

A lot must be considered, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Pregnancy Decision Line can connect you with a local pregnancy center that offers free parenting classes and referrals for community resources, including health insurance, housing, prenatal care, and more. 

Unplanned Pregnancy? Pregnancy Decision Line Can Help. 

Understanding your abortion rights is the first step. Making a fully informed decision means seeking guidance from medical professionals and considering all of your options. 

Pregnancy Decision Line can connect you with a local pregnancy center that provides:

• Free Services: Pregnancy tests and ultrasounds.
• Compassionate Support: A safe space to ask questions and explore your options without pressure.
• Personalized Guidance: They can answer your questions and help you explore each of your pregnancy options, so that you can make an informed, empowered decision.

You don’t have to have it all figured out to reach out. Ready to take the next step? Give us a call to get started.

*Important Note: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Abortion laws vary by state and are subject to change. Please consult a licensed medical provider or legal professional for guidance specific to your situation.

Additionally, Pregnancy Decision Line does not provide or refer for abortion services.