An unexpected pregnancy can send anyone into a panic. We know how overwhelming it can be, but don’t let fear make any decisions for you. Make sure you get all the facts on abortion in Connecticut, so you can make an informed and empowered decision.
In this article, we’re exploring the Connecticut abortion law and the importance of ultrasounds in your unexpected pregnancy journey.
Is Abortion Legal in Connecticut?
Currently, abortion is legal up until viability in Connecticut. Exceptions can be made after viability to preserve the life or health of the pregnant woman.[1] Viability refers to the point in pregnancy when a fetus is developed enough to survive outside the womb with medical help, which occurs at approximately 24 weeks of pregnancy.[2]
Although ultrasounds aren’t required prior to abortion in Connecticut, we strongly recommend it. Keep reading to find out why.
Why Do I Need an Ultrasound?
You may be wondering why you’d want an ultrasound if you’re considering abortion. The answer is that ultrasounds can help you make an informed and empowered decision for an unplanned pregnancy. They determine two key factors: viability and gestational age.
What is Pregnancy Viability?
A viable pregnancy means that the pregnancy is progressing properly. For example, at about 6 ½ – 7 weeks gestation, the embryo should have a detectable heartbeat.[3] The goal is to rule out a nonviable pregnancy, such as a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy—in either case, abortion is no longer an option to consider.
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 Connecticut law prohibits abortion beyond viability. If you intend to travel out of state for an abortion, be aware that the surrounding areas may prohibit abortion beyond a certain point in your pregnancy as well.
Additionally, you can’t take the abortion pill past 10 weeks of pregnancy.[4]
Before spending your money only to find out you aren’t eligible for abortion, consider receiving a free ultrasound at The Women's Center of Eastern Connecticut. If your ultrasound determines that you’re too far along for abortion, our compassionate client advocates will help you explore all of your pregnancy options, so you can make the best choice for your health and future.
Free Ultrasounds in Eastern CT
No matter where you are in your unexpected pregnancy journey, you aren’t alone. Our trained ultrasound technicians are here to provide the support and vital information needed to make an informed decision.
We offer free pregnancy tests, free ultrasounds, and a safe, compassionate space to explore your pregnancy options.
Don’t wait to get the care you deserve. Call or text us at 860-576-8072 or request your appointment online today. All services are confidential and free of charge.
Please be aware that this article is not meant to be a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Our limited ultrasound examination is strictly for the purposes of confirming your pregnancy, detecting fetal cardiac activity, and estimating gestational age. We cannot diagnose any medical problems you may be experiencing, pregnancy-related or otherwise.
Sources
Public Act No. 22-19. Connecticut General Attorney. (2022, July 1). https://cga.ct.gov/2022/ACT/PA/PDF/2022PA-00019-R00HB-05414-PA.PDF
Breborowicz, G. (2001, January). Limits of fetal viability and its enhancement. U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11753511/
Fetal Development. Cleveland Clinic. (2023, March 3). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/7247-fetal-development-stages-of-growth
Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. (2023, March 23). Mifeprex (Mifepristone). U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/mifeprex-mifepristone-information
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