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.
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.[1]
- 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 because:
- Medical abortion is only FDA-approved through 10 weeks
- Surgical abortion procedures and costs vary by trimester
- Some states have gestational limits
Understanding State Laws: Where You Live vs. Where You’re Going
Your Home State Laws
Currently, abortion is illegal in Iowa after cardiac activity can be detected by an ultrasound, typically around 6 weeks of pregnancy.
Exceptions can be made in cases of rape, incest, or when abortion is considered necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman. To qualify for an exception, people must report the rape resulting in pregnancy within 45 days to law enforcement or a public health agency or doctor, and within 140 for cases of incest.[2]
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 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[3]
- First-trimester surgical abortion: Between $650 – $979[4]
- Second-trimester surgical abortion: Between $720 – $2,723[5]
These costs may or may not include ultrasounds, blood tests, medications, and follow-up appointments. There could also be additional expenses associated with travel that are costly.
Planning for Follow-Up Care
An often-overlooked aspect of traveling out of state for abortion services is follow-up care. Like any medical procedure, abortion requires monitoring for potential complications.
Potential Complications
Medical abortion complications may include[6]:
- Infection requiring treatment
- Heavy bleeding requiring medical attention
- Retained pregnancy tissue
- Allergic reactions to medications
Surgical abortion complications may include[7]:
- Infection
- Excessive Bleeding
- Uterine perforation
- 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 or if you need follow up with care with your abortion provider
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 Cedar Rapids, Iowa
At Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support 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 (319) 200-2125 or schedule an appointment online today. All services are confidential and free of charge.
Important Note: Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support 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.
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
Please be aware that Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center does not provide or refer for abortion services.
Sources
- FDA. (2025, February 11). Questions and Answers on Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation?sm_guid=NTU1NzgyfDYzMDE1OTM2fC0xfGppbUBha2ZhbWlseS5vcmd8NTY4OTI4MXx8MHwwfDE5OTYwMDk4OHwxMDg2fDB8MHx8NTQ3NzI2fDA1
- The Iowa Legislature. (2024, November 19). Chapter 146C. Abortion — Detectable Fetal Heartbeat. https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/146C.pdf
- As advertised by abortion providers as of August 2025.
- As advertised by abortion providers as of August 2025.
- As advertised by abortion providers as of August 2025.
- Cleveland Clinic. (2024, January 16). Medical Abortion. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21899-medical-abortion
- Cleveland Clinic. (2024, February 9). What Is a D&C? https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/dilation-and-curettage