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Abortion

In the United States, there are two different types of abortion: in-clinic abortion and medication abortion. The method you choose will depend on how far along you are in your pregnancy, your health and your personal preference. Both methods are safe and effective.

Medication Abortion by Mail

Reproductive Health Services is now offering medication abortion by mail in Illinois. To qualify, patients need to have an Illinois address and be in Illinois at the time of their telehealth appointment. Make a telehealth abortion appointment today to be screened.

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Medication Abortion 

Medication Abortion 

A medication abortion with the abortion pill can be done up to 11 weeks of pregnancy. There are three steps to a medication abortion. 

  1. You take the first medication, mifepristone, with your health care provider. It works by blocking a hormone called progesterone that is necessary for a pregnancy to continue. 
  2. You take the second medication, misoprostol, which will cause the uterus to empty. 
  3. A follow-up appointment with your health care provider. He or she will make sure the procedure went smoothly. There will either be an ultrasound or a blood test to make sure the pregnancy has been terminated.

Medication abortion is safe and effective—the abortion pill works 97 percent of the time. To learn more about the safety considerations and steps of medication abortion, read these commonly asked questions about medication abortion.

In-Clinic Abortion

In-Clinic Abortion

There are two kinds of in-clinic abortions: aspiration and D&E (dilation and evacuation).  

  • Aspiration is usually performed up to 16 weeks after a person’s last period.  
  • D&E is usually performed after that 16-week period has passed.

In-clinic abortions are effective and safe. However, the procedure is riskier the later in the pregnancy it is performed.  You can learn more about the safety, effectiveness, and actual steps of the procedure by reading these frequently asked questions about in-clinic abortions.

Why the abortion pill?
  • Available early, up to 11 weeks of pregnancy
  • The abortion pill is a more private and less invasive method of ending pregnancy
  • Anesthesia is not necessary.
  • It might feel more natural to you; some believe medical abortion is similar to a miscarriage
Why an in-clinic abortion?
  • If it is past 11 weeks of pregnancy
  • If you are nervous or concerned about side-effects of a medication abortion
  • If you feel more comfortable having a health care professional there to direct the procedure
  • If you are taking medicine that should not be combined with the medications used in medication abortion
  • If you are taking anti-clotting medication or have a blood-clotting disorder
How do I decide?

Have a conversation with a spouse, partner, or loved one. Find someone supportive who can help you explore your needs and discuss your options.  Our health care professionals can give you more information to help you make the best decision for you and your physical and emotional health.

If you have decided that adoption or parenthood is best for you, pre-natal care should start as soon as possible. If you've decided abortion is the best for you, then the risks are lower the earlier the procedure is performed.

When is it legal to have an abortion in Missouri and Illinois?

Abortion is banned in Missouri, except in cases of medical emergency.

Abortion in Illinois is safe and legal. We provide abortion up to 26 weeks of pregnancy in Illinois. 

Does my partner have any legal say in my decision regarding my pregnancy?

No. Your partner cannot legally interfere with your decision-making regarding a pregnancy. If you wish, your partner or other loved ones can offer much needed support before, during and after your abortion. RHS staff is available to assist and support you throughout the process.

Does Illinois state law require parental consent?

Illinois does not require parental consent or notice.

Where can I get an abortion and how much does it cost?

Medication and in-clinic abortion are available at several locations in southern Illinois: our Fairview Heights health center, Hope Clinic in Granite City, CHOICES Center for Reproductive Health in Carbondale, and Alamo Women’s Clinic in Carbondale. 

Facilities that do not provide abortions may refer you to a health center that does.  

The price of a medication or in-clinic abortion varies depending on how early in the pregnancy the procedure is done or medication is taken, and whether tests, visits, or exams are needed. Our staff will provide you with information on pricing when you make your appointment. If you need help paying for your abortion, we can help. Call our Regional Logistics Center at 618-607-5080.

 

Assistance is Available

If you need help with travel, lodging, financial assistance, or other practical support for your appointment, please contact our Regional Logistics Center at 618-607-5080. 

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What are my other options?

Other Options

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Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Inc. (PPFA) works to protect and expand access to sexual and reproductive health care and education, and provides support to its member affiliates. Planned Parenthood affiliates are separately incorporated public charities that operate health centers across the U.S. as trusted sources of health care and education for people of all genders in communities across the country. PPFA is tax-exempt under Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(3) - EIN 13-1644147. Donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowable under the law.

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