The “abortion pill” may cost up to $800, while a “surgical” abortion can cost up to $2,000. It’s important to understand that these figures are averages. Many people pay significantly less.
The cost of an abortion can vary based on a number of factors, including:
- how far along the pregnancy is
- the type of abortion needed
- the state or location where you’ll receive care
- whether a local anesthetic is needed
- whether conscious sedation, deep sedation, or general anesthetic is used
- whether you need to travel, take time off work, or arrange child care
- whether you can use health insurance
- whether you qualify for financial assistance
If you have private or government health insurance, such as Medicaid, your plan may cover some or all of the cost. This ultimately depends on the state that you’re insured in and the type of plan you have.
KFF, a nonpartisan organization reporting on health policy, found that in May 2023, 11 states had policies restricting abortion coverage in private plans. A total of 26 states had policies that banned coverage in any marketplace plans.
Although most facilities providing abortion care accept at least one form of insurance, a report from the Abortion Facility Database Project found that the number declined from 82% in 2017 to 71% in 2021.
If you have insurance and have questions about your coverage, contact your insurance provider to learn more.
The “abortion pill” — also known as a medication abortion — is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use up until 10 weeks of pregnancy. Some
According to a report from the Abortion Facility Database Project, the median out-of-pocket or “self-pay” cost for medication abortion increased from $495 in 2017 to $568 in 2021.
An April 2022 article from Planned Parenthood shares that the average cost of a medication abortion at their clinic is around $580.
You may be able to use a telehealth platform to receive abortion medication by mail. Some platforms, such as Hey Jane, accept insurance. This could lower the cost to $0.
Another option is Aid Access. They ship abortion medication to all 50 states in the United States. The service costs $150, but financial assistance is available.
To learn more about how or where to get abortion medication, check out the advocacy organization Plan C. Healthline’s guide to safely self-managing a medication abortion can help you navigate what comes next.
Vacuum aspiration is an in-office procedure. It’s typically used during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, also known as the first trimester. It may be used early in the second trimester.
According to a report from the Abortion Facility Database Project, the median self-pay cost for a first-trimester procedural abortion increased from $475 in 2017 to $625 in 2021.
An April 2022 article from Planned Parenthood shares that the average cost of a first-trimester procedural abortion at their clinic is around $600.
In-clinic abortion procedures are commonly referred to as “surgical abortions.” These methods use gentle suction to remove the pregnancy from your uterus.
Medical instruments such as forceps and a spoon-shaped object called a curette may also be used to empty the uterus.
D&E is an in-office procedure. It’s typically used during the second trimester, especially after 16 weeks of pregnancy.
According to a report from the Abortion Facility Database Project, the median self-pay cost for a second-trimester procedural abortion decreased from $935 in 2017 to $775 in 2021.
An April 2022 article from Planned Parenthood shares that the average cost of a procedural abortion at their clinic is around $715 early in the second trimester. The cost typically increases with each week of pregnancy.
The average cost of a procedural abortion at Planned Parenthood is $1,500–$2,000 later in the second trimester.
Abortion after 27 weeks, also known as the third trimester, can cost anywhere from “
Third-trimester abortions typically take place over 3 days, which can contribute to the higher cost.
If you haven’t already looked into Aid Access, you might do so now. They can provide abortion medication at a lower cost.
The Abortion Freedom Fund may be able to cover up to $150 for a telehealth abortion. Apply for assistance on their website.
Planned Parenthood may also be able to provide financial assistance, whether it’s to cover the cost of abortion medication, an in-clinic abortion, or related costs such as transportation. Find your nearest Planned Parenthood health center.
The National Network of Abortion Funds keeps a list of practical support organizations in each U.S. state and funds that provide nationwide or international support. Different organizations offer different types of support. Find an abortion fund in your area.
People in the United States and Canada can call the National Abortion Hotline or chat online to learn more about abortion services. Hotline staff can help determine whether you qualify for financial assistance from the National Abortion Federation.
If you’re 15 or more weeks pregnant, have an appointment scheduled, or are currently working with an abortion fund, you can ask your contact to make a referral to The Brigid Alliance on your behalf. The Brigid Alliance may help finance logistics like travel, food, lodging, and child care.
To learn more about abortion access and care:
- What to Expect When Taking the Pill or Undergoing In-Office Surgery
- Understanding Abortion Restrictions in Your State
- How to Identify and Avoid Crisis Pregnancy Centers
To receive pre- or post-abortion counseling:
To find a telemedicine professional or nearby abortion clinic:
To learn more about your legal rights:
Tess Catlett is a sex and relationships editor at Healthline, covering all things sticky, scary, and sweet. Find her unpacking her inherited trauma and crying over Harry Styles on Twitter.