No, Planned Parenthood does not do abortions for free.
They usually price abortions based on how far along a woman is in her pregnancy and the type of procedure they recommend. The price also includes the use of local anesthetic or conscious sedation.
While some states could provide financial support through insurance, particular funds, or programs, someone must pay Planned Parenthood to perform the abortion.
What Goes Into an Estimate of an Abortion Cost?
1. Pregnancy Gestation
Planned Parenthood has a pregnancy calculator on their website for women to estimate how far along they are (pregnancy gestation).
However, an ultrasound scan will provide specific measurements to determine the pregnancy’s exact gestation. Some abortion clinics will include the ultrasound scan in the price.
2. Abortion Procedure
Medical abortion (the abortion pill), which is FDA-approved for use through ten weeks of pregnancy, is typically the lowest-cost option, with an average price of around $560.
While less invasive than surgical abortion, this type of abortion is not an option for women with certain pre-existing conditions, such as a bleeding disorder. It involves using two drugs to terminate the pregnancy and expel it through uterine contractions.
Surgical abortions, which include Vacuum Aspiration, Dilation & Curettage (D&C), and Dilation & Evacuation (D&E), are typically performed later in pregnancy.
These involve a form of anesthetic or sedation, along with a mix of surgical tools or suction to surgically remove the pregnancy. It’s more invasive and takes place in a clinic or hospital.
Surgical abortion costs can range from the cost of the abortion pill to thousands of dollars.
3. Other Factors
The price of an abortion can include follow-up appointments, medications, ultrasounds, and other factors.
However, their estimates will not include these costs if you’re planning to travel, buy over-the-counter medications, or need emergency care. Those are extra out-of-pocket expenses.
No-Cost Pregnancy Services Regardless of Insurance
At A Woman’s Concern, we do not profit from any pregnancy decision you make. All services are provided free of charge and exist to serve women in and around Lancaster county.
While we do not provide or refer for abortions, we can offer other services to help you during this time, including no-cost pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, information, and resources.
