Abortion is a very safe procedure, and it almost always works -- over 99% of the time. It's also very common. Overall, 3 in 10 women in the U.S. will have an abortion by the time they’re 45 years old.

Planned Parenthood leads the country with the most up-to-date medical standards and guidelines for health care, including abortion. We regularly review new medical research and get updates from groups like the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Having an unintended pregnancy is very common, and many people decide to have an abortion. Only you know what’s best for you, but good information and support can really help you make the decision that is best for your own health and well-being.

People who are pregnant have 3 options:

• Parenting

• Abortion

• Adoption

Making a decision about a pregnancy is personal. Accurate information and support helps, but only you can know what’s best for you.

It’s important to take the time you need to make the best decision for you. It’s also a good idea to talk to a nurse or doctor as soon as you can so you can get the best medical care possible. The staff at your local Planned Parenthood clinic is always here to provide expert medical care and support, no matter what decision you make.

The cost of abortion varies and depends on whether or not you have health insurance that will cover some or all of the cost. Your abortion may be free or low-cost with health insurance, but some insurance plans don’t cover abortions. You can call your insurance provider directly to find out their policies.

If you’re worried about cost, call us at 1-800-230-7526 to see if we can get you health care that you can afford.

Some states require parental notification for those under 18. To learn more about your local laws, you can call us at 1-800-230-7526 or reference this list of parental notification laws by state. 

A judge may be able to excuse you from the parental notification requirement through a “judicial waiver.” It's important you contact us right away if you need a judicial waiver because we can answer your questions about it and it can take added time to get through the process.

If you have questions, call 1-800-230-7526.