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The news around Illinois’s abortion laws, and abortion laws across the United States, is frequently evolving. If you have any questions about the latest abortion law information, please do not hesitate to call Adoptions With Love.
Illinois abortion laws continue to see changes, much like abortion rights throughout the country. If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy and living in Illinois, you may be thinking about your options. You may be wondering if abortion is an option.
Navigating an unplanned pregnancy can be a stressful experience. Right now, you may be feeling overwhelmed, but it is important to know there are resources to help.
Read on, as we explain the latest updates to abortion laws in Illinois and the choices you have as an expectant parent. What is important to know is that abortion is legal in Illinois up until viability. Read on to understand more fully.
Brief History of Abortion Laws in Illinois
Despite the Supreme Court’s dismantling of Roe v. Wade in June of 2022, Illinois remains one of the states that has abortion care as a legal right for residents. A state statute had been in place to protect women’s reproductive rights long before the Supreme Court’s controversial decision.
In 2017, Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner signed a law that codified abortion rights in the state.
Then, in 2019, Gov. JB Pritzker enhanced that law, making reproductive health care services – including abortion access – a human right.
Overview of Illinois Abortion Laws
According to the abortion laws in Illinois, termination is legal up until viability. This is the point in pregnancy when a fetus can survive outside the uterus without medical intervention. Some consider viability to be at around 24 weeks (about 5 and a half months), but it can vary depending on the fetus and differ for every pregnancy.
Illinois abortion laws ensure that abortion care is legal for every resident, regardless of age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, immigration status, class, or disability status. Those in State custody, control, or supervision (including jail or prison) also have the right to abortion care.
Abortion laws in Illinois do not require clinics to contact the parents of a patient under 18 seeking abortion care services.
Illinois Medicaid and most private health insurance plans are required to cover abortions. Some clinics may also provide financial assistance for those who need it.
Abortions can be obtained at family planning clinics, some doctor’s offices and hospitals.
Your Unplanned Pregnancy Options in Illinois
As you digest the news of your unplanned pregnancy in Illinois, you will want to learn about all your choices before considering your next step. You have the following pregnancy options in Illinois:
- Abortion (up until viability)
- Adoption
- Parenthood
Abortion
It is important to speak with a medical professional before deciding on abortion so that you can understand the side effects and risks. There are two types of abortions: procedural and medication. A healthcare professional can help you determine if – and which type of – abortion is an option.
If abortion is not right for you, there are two other choices.
Parenthood
Parenthood is a life-long commitment. Many expectant mothers consider this option. It can be a rewarding and joyful experience, but it can also be incredibly stressful and challenging if you are not in a place to start a family. Consider how this choice will change your life as you think about taking this path:
- How will I support my growing family?
- Who is in my “tribe” for support?
- How can I continue to pursue my education and/or career goals?
These are just a few questions to ask yourself before deciding to raise a child.
Adoption
Adoption is a positive choice for anyone who is not yet ready to raise a child. It is never an easy decision, but it is one made from a place of devotion, thoughtfulness, and love. Choosing adoption allows birth parents to give their child a better life than they can provide for their child at the present time.
Placing your baby for adoption in Illinois means putting your child’s needs before your own. You are considering the possibilities of the life your child may have with an adoptive family.
Adoption offers many benefits for birth parents. One of these benefits includes having the power to choose your child’s adoptive parents. You can also choose the type of adoption plan you want to have – open adoption, semi-open, or closed adoption.
The best adoption agencies in Illinois can help you custom design a plan that best meets your needs. This professional offers comprehensive services – at no cost to you – including compassionate counseling and legal support. An Illinois adoption agency like Adoptions With Love can provide you with an adoption team that is experienced in Illinois abortion laws and will ensure you understand your rights.
Pregnant in Illinois? Get the Support You Deserve
If you would like to learn more about adoption in Illinois, contact Adoptions With Love today. We can listen to you and answer any questions you may have, free of obligation or commitment. Call us any time of day, any day of the week at 800-722-7731, text us confidentially at 617-777-0072, or contact us online.