In-Clinic Abortion Procedure Information and Instructions

Michigan has a law that requires you to receive some written information at least 24 hours prior to your appointment. We cannot see you for your appointment if this is not done. Please see “Michigan’s Informed Consent Law” below for how to access this information to ensure we can see you for your visit.

At this visit, health care staff, including a physician, will speak with you about your medical history, all of your options, and your birth control needs in the future. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and will be given information about what to do in an emergency.  

Based on your care needs, testing and a physical exam will be done. This will include an ultrasound, hemoglobin, Rh testing, and a pelvic exam. Testing for STIs and other blood work may also be done. For more information about what to expect during an in-clinic abortion, please visit Planned Parenthood.org. 

You will be offered medication to relax you and assist with pain management. If you choose not to or are unable to take this medication, you will be offered Ibuprofen. If you take anything other than Ibuprofen, you will need to secure transportation home as you won’t be allowed to drive. 

You will likely have light bleeding after the procedure. Please dress comfortably. It is best if you can wear full brief underwear as you will likely need to use a maxi pad and clothing that is easy to pull on and pull off. 

It is preferred that children do not accompany you to this appointment due to the longer visit length. If you need to bring children, a separate person is required to care for them while in the waiting area.

Michigan’s Informed Consent Law

The state of Michigan has a law that requires you to receive some written information at least 24 hours prior to your appointment. We cannot see you for your appointment if this is not done. There are two ways to access this information. You may pick up a paper packet at any Planned Parenthood health center in Michigan or or you may access the information on the state of Michigan’s website and bring the time stamped, printed acknowledgement form to your appointment.

To access the information online, go to Michigan.Gov/MDHHS website. Type ‘Informed Consent for Abortion’ in the search box and then, click on the link for Informed Consent for Abortion. Click on Michigan's Informed Consent for Abortion Law and follow the instructions. You must follow all steps. Once you follow the instructions, you need to print as a PDF the confirmation form that lists the date and time at the bottom. If you do not have it at the time of your appointment, you will have to reschedule your abortion appointment for another day.

To access the information from a Planned Parenthood of Michigan health center, visit any of our health centers and tell the staff person you are there to pick up a 24-hour informed consent packet. They will date the packet when you pick it up. If you pick it up too late or do not have it for your appointment, you will have to reschedule your abortion appointment for another day.

Other important information

If you are 18 years or older, you must bring a picture ID that clearly states your date of birth. We will not be able to provide services without it.

Patients under the age of 18, unless an emancipated minor, need the consent of one parent or a judicial bypass to obtain an abortion in Michigan. If you have parental consent, your parent or guardian must be at the appointment with you. We will need your birth certificate, as well as a picture ID for your parent and yourself (school ID is ok).  

We strongly encourage you to speak with a parent about your decision. If you are unable to do so, you can request a judicial bypass from a judge. This service does not cost you anything. The process for judicial bypass can vary by county, contact the circuit court in your area to get specific instructions. If you receive a judicial bypass we will need that paperwork as well as a picture ID (school ID is ok) to see you for your appointment.

It is illegal under Michigan Law to coerce a person to have an abortion. You will be asked questions about coercion at the time of your appointment. 

Fees, Payment, and Insurance

If you need financial assistance, please call us at 1-800-230-PLAN so we can discuss your options.

If using insurance, please bring a photo ID and your insurance card to your appointment.

If you have questions regarding what services are covered by your insurance, please contact your insurance company. We will bill your insurance for the services you receive where applicable. We do our best to provide the highest quality care to our patients, however your insurance company has the best expertise regarding coverage. Some insurance plan coverage types may require a referral for your visit with Planned Parenthood of Michigan. Please contact your insurance company to determine if your desired service is subject to referral.  

Please call us at 1 800 230-PLAN (7526) with any questions.