Facing an unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating complex abortion laws across different states. If you’re wondering whether you can travel to another state for an abortion, the answer is yes—but there are important considerations to understand before making this decision.

This comprehensive guide will help you understand your options and what to expect. Keep reading to learn more.

Understanding Your Right to Travel for Abortion Services

The Constitution protects your right to travel for abortion services to another state where the procedure is legal.[1]

However, traveling out of state for abortion involves more than just booking a trip. It requires:

Understanding the different abortion procedures and their risks and side effects
Knowing your state’s abortion laws and the abortion laws in other states
Ensuring you have access to follow-up care, if needed

Know the Types of Abortion Procedures

Before considering abortion travel between states, it’s crucial to understand the two main types of abortion procedures available:

Medical Abortion (Abortion Pill): This involves taking medication to end a pregnancy and is FDA-approved for pregnancies up to 10 weeks gestation.[2] The process typically requires multiple appointments and careful monitoring.
Surgical Abortion: This is a medical procedure performed at a healthcare facility. The specific type depends on how far along the pregnancy is, with different techniques used for first and second trimester procedures.

Determining Your Pregnancy Timeline

Most abortion laws and availability depend on gestational age—how far along you are in your pregnancy.

An ultrasound provides the most accurate measurement. This information is crucial for out of state abortion access because:

Medical abortion is only FDA-approved through 10 weeks
Surgical abortion procedures and costs vary by trimester
Some states have gestational limits that may affect your travel plans

At Family Life Pregnancy Center, we provide free ultrasound referrals to help you understand exactly where you are in your pregnancy timeline.

Understanding State Laws: Where You Live vs. Where You’re Going

Your Home State Laws

Currently, abortion is legal up until viability in California.[3] Viability refers to the point in pregnancy when a fetus is developed enough to survive outside the womb with medical help. Viability occurs at approximately 24 weeks of pregnancy.[4]

Destination State Requirements

Although the Constitution protects a woman’s right to travel to another state for an abortion, abortion must be legal in that state.

Additionally, there may be other requirements that affect your travel plans for abortion, such as:

Mandatory waiting periods between consultation and procedure
Required counseling sessions
Parental consent requirements for minors
Specific licensing requirements for providers
Gestational age limits

Financial Considerations for Out-of-State Abortion Travel

Traveling to another state for abortion involves several cost considerations beyond the procedure itself:

Procedure Costs

Medical abortion (abortion pills): Between $150 and $1,100[5]
First-trimester surgical abortion: Between $650 – $979[6]
Second-trimester surgical abortion: Between $720 – $2,723[7]

These costs may or may not include ultrasounds, blood tests, medications, and follow-up appointments.

Additional Travel Expenses

When budgeting for out-of-state abortion services, you also need to consider:

Transportation costs (gas, flights, bus tickets)
Lodging expenses for overnight stays
Meals during travel
Potential lost wages from time off work
Childcare arrangements, if needed
Parking fees at medical facilities

Planning for Follow-Up Care

An often-overlooked aspect of traveling out of state for reproductive services is follow-up care. Like any medical procedure, abortion requires monitoring for potential complications.

Potential Complications

Medical abortion complications may include[8]:

Retained pregnancy tissue
Heavy bleeding requiring medical attention
Allergic reactions to medications
Infection requiring treatment

Surgical abortion complications may include[9]:

Uterine perforation
Infection
Excessive bleeding
Incomplete procedure

Follow-Up Planning

When traveling out of state for an abortion, you also need to consider follow-up needs:

How long you may need to stay in the destination state
Whether your local healthcare providers can manage follow-up care
Emergency contact information for the out-of-state provider
Access to 24/7 medical advice during your recovery period

Making an Informed Decision

Traveling for an abortion is a significant decision that affects your health, finances, and overall well-being. Before making travel arrangements:

Confirm your pregnancy and gestational age with accurate testing
Research laws in both your home state and destination state
Calculate all costs involved in travel and procedures
Plan for follow-up care and potential complications
Consider all pregnancy options available to you
Seek support from trusted friends, family, or counselors

Abortion Information and Support Services in Tehachapi, CA

At Family Life Pregnancy Center, we understand that navigating pregnancy decisions can feel overwhelming, especially when considering travel for abortion services. We provide:

Free, confidential pregnancy testing
No-cost ultrasounds to determine gestational age
Comprehensive information about all pregnancy options
Emotional support and local resources to help you make an informed decision

Give us a call at (661) 823-8255 or schedule an appointment online today. All services are confidential and free of charge!

Schedule Your Appointment

Important Note: Family Life Pregnancy Center does not provide or refer for abortion services. We are committed to providing accurate, unbiased information about all pregnancy options and supporting women regardless of their decisions.

This information is provided for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers about your specific situation and medical needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to travel to another state for an abortion?

Yes, it is constitutionally legal to travel to another state for an abortion. The federal government has affirmed that states cannot prevent their residents from traveling to access legal abortion services in other states. However, the abortion must be legal in the destination state.

How much does it cost to travel to another state for an abortion?

The total cost of traveling out of state for abortion varies significantly depending on distance, procedure type, and additional requirements. Costs typically include:

Procedure fees ($150-$2,723, depending on type and timing)
Travel expenses (transportation, lodging, meals)
Lost wages from time off work
Potential multiple trips if waiting periods are required

Will my insurance cover an out-of-state abortion?

Medicaid typically does not cover abortion services when you travel to another state for an abortion. Private insurance coverage varies by plan.

What if I’m under 18 and want to travel for an abortion?

Minors considering out of state abortion travel face additional legal complexities:

Some states require parental consent or notification
Destination states may have different minor consent laws
Transportation across state lines may involve additional legal considerations
Consult with legal and medical professionals about your specific situation