Is Abortion Legal in Kentucky?

At the time of writing (May 2023), Kentucky abortion laws are currently being debated in the courts. In the meantime, abortion is illegal in Kentucky, except in the case of life endangerment to the mother[1]. You are also required to receive an ultrasound prior to any abortion in Kentucky

Why Do I Need an Ultrasound?

You may be wondering why you’d want an ultrasound, especially if you’re thinking about terminating the pregnancy. The answer is that ultrasounds provide the insight needed to make an informed and empowered decision for an unplanned pregnancy! They determine two key things about your pregnancy: viability and gestational age.

What is Pregnancy Viability?

A viable pregnancy means that the pregnancy is progressing properly. For example, at about six weeks, the embryo should have a heartbeat[2]. The goal is to rule out a nonviable pregnancy, such as a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy—in either case, abortion isn’t needed.

What is Gestational Age?

How far along am I? Your ultrasound can answer that question! It’s important to know how far along you are (also known as your gestational age), as you can’t take the abortion pill past 10 weeks of pregnancy[3]. If you’re considering traveling out of state for an abortion, be aware that the surrounding areas may have gestational age limitations as well.

Consider receiving a free ultrasound at Life Choice! If your ultrasound determines that you’re too far along to take the abortion pill, our compassionate medical staff will help you explore all of your pregnancy options, so you can make the best choice for your health and future!

Free Ultrasounds in Russellville, KY

No matter where you are in your unplanned pregnancy journey, you aren’t alone! Our trained medical staff are here to provide the support and vital information needed to make an informed decision.

Don’t wait to get the care you deserve! Give us a call at (270) 717-5433, send a text to (270) 883-2464, or schedule your appointment online today. All services are confidential and free of charge!

Please be aware that Life Choice Pregnancy Care Center does not provide or refer for abortion services. 

Sources

  1. Commonwealth of Kentucky Office of the Attorney General. (2022, June 24). Human Life Protection Act. Attorney General Daniel Cameron. Retrieved from https://www.ag.ky.gov/Press%20Release%20Attachments/Human%20Life%20Protection%20Act%20Advisory.pdf 
  2. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, September 3). Slide Show: Fetal Ultrasound. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/multimedia/fetal-ultrasound/sls-20076294?s=3#
  3. Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. (2021, December 16). Mifeprex (Mifepristone). U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/mifeprex-mifepristone-information