The overturning of Roe v. Wade returned the power to determine abortion laws to individual states. While Ohio bans abortions after 6 weeks (except in cases where a woman’s life or health is in danger), Michigan allows abortions until the baby is viable (when the baby can survive outside of the woman’s body.)
It is legal for you to travel to Michigan to receive an abortion, but before you do, there are a few things that you should know to keep your safety a priority.
Pre-Abortion Screening
Before a woman receives an abortion, it is crucial that she has a physical and ultrasound. An ultrasound provides vital information about the pregnancy needed before an abortion, including:
- How far along is the pregnancy? This is important in determining which procedure is safest for her situation. For example, a medical abortion (also known as the abortion pill) is only FDA-approved for use in pregnancies under 10 weeks.
- Is the pregnancy viable? If a pregnancy is not growing and has no heartbeat, it naturally ends in miscarriage. This happens in about 20% of pregnancies. Some miscarriages resolve without intervention, while others will require assistance from a medical provider. Intervention for miscarriage is available in Ohio.
- Is the pregnancy in the uterus? An ectopic pregnancy results from the pregnancy implanting somewhere in the body other than inside the uterus. This is a dangerous condition for the woman and cannot be treated with an abortion. Diagnosing ectopic pregnancy and receiving immediate related care is crucial to the woman’s safety. Treatment for ectopic pregnancy is available in Ohio.
While ultrasounds can be an added expense, they are essential for maintaining your health. Clinics like Pregnancy Center West offer free ultrasounds as part of pre-abortion screening. Take advantage of this no-cost benefit before traveling.
What to Think About Ahead of Time
When planning to travel for an abortion, ask a few questions to ensure your safety.
- Where will recovery take place?
- Women are sent home after abortion to recover. If you travel a long distance for an abortion, this might mean that you are in an unfamiliar location or traveling back home while experiencing the side effects of your abortion.
- What side effects are concerning?
- Abortion, like every medical procedure, carries risks. Before obtaining an abortion, a woman should be aware of these risks and know what signs and symptoms signal complications. Immediate medical attention should be sought if a woman experiences any of the following after an abortion:
- Heavy bleeding — soaking two or more pads an hour for two hours
- Severe abdominal or back pain
- Fever lasting more than 24 hours
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Abortion, like every medical procedure, carries risks. Before obtaining an abortion, a woman should be aware of these risks and know what signs and symptoms signal complications. Immediate medical attention should be sought if a woman experiences any of the following after an abortion:
- Will You Have Access to Emergency Care or Follow-up Appointments?
- If you return to Ohio to recover, who will you contact if you have symptoms of complications? If you have a medical abortion (the abortion pill), you will need a follow-up appointment; will you travel to Michigan again?
We’re Here for You
For more information about if traveling out of state for an abortion is right for you, contact us today. We offer free pregnancy confirmation with medical-grade testing and ultrasounds.
