The November 2024 election is behind us, but that doesn’t mean Floridians completely understand what was decided. Here are three things you will want to know about current abortion laws in Florida.
If you want specific details about abortion procedures, potential risks, or even abortion pill reversal, contact a caseworker at Christian Family Services. We’re always available to answer your questions.
1. Is Abortion Still Legal in Florida?
Yes, abortion is still legal in Florida, but there are restrictions. Amendment 4, which would have made abortion legal until fetal viability (around 23 to 24 weeks), failed. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t get an abortion in Florida.
Currently, Florida’s abortion laws allow for abortion through 6 weeks of pregnancy. At 5 or 6 weeks, physicians can detect a heartbeat. An abortion is illegal once a heartbeat is detected. Taking a pregnancy test on the first day after a missed period helps to determine if a woman is pregnant or not.
2. Can a Pregnant Woman Die Because She Can’t Get an Abortion?
The law states that an abortion is possible “to save the pregnant woman’s life or avert a serious risk of substantial and irreversible physical impairment of a major bodily function.” A woman can get an abortion if it is necessary to save her life.
A woman can also receive an abortion up to 15 weeks in cases of rape, incest, and/or human trafficking. A rape or incest victim must file a police report or provide a medical record in such instances.
3. Can I Buy Abortion Drugs (the Abortion Pill Method) Online in Florida?
Florida’s law bans receiving abortion drugs through telehealth services. A licensed doctor must administer abortion drugs in person. This law is strictly to protect a pregnant woman’s health and safety.
Abortion drugs are less effective the farther along you are in your pregnancy. A woman should receive an ultrasound to determine the number of weeks she has been pregnant.
Additionally, the FDA does not recommend purchasing abortion drugs online. Many online sites offer drugs manufactured overseas. They may promote cheaper prices, but the FDA cannot review the drugs for safety, effectiveness, and quality.
What Should I Do If I’m Further Than 6 Weeks Along?
An unplanned pregnancy doesn’t mean you don’t have options. You can always choose to place your baby for adoption. You may have heard adoption described as “giving up my baby,” but nothing can be further from the truth today.
As the expectant mother, you have the right to make all the decisions. You can select the couple who raises your child and determine how much contact you wish to have with them moving forward. You direct the future you want for your child.
At Christian Family Services, we can thoroughly explain the adoption process. Adoption is not always an easy choice, but it is a very brave decision. You receive 24/7 counseling for as long as you need us through our services. We won’t pressure or manipulate you.
We promise there is a family ready and waiting to love your baby. Why not view some of our waiting families today?
Schedule a no-cost and confidential appointment with us today. If you can’t meet us at one of our locations, we’ll come to you. It doesn’t hurt to look at all of your options. We’re available to assist you today!
Christian Family Services does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.
