Planned Parenthood Expands Availability of Medication Abortion to 12 Weeks of Pregnancy for Patients in Illinois
Contact: Nick Dunne, [email protected]
For Immediate Release: July 9, 2024 (Updated: July 9, 2024, 9:41 p.m.)
“Expanding eligibility for abortion allows more patients the freedom to choose the method that is right for them."
Fairview Heights, IL — Today, Planned Parenthood Great Rivers (PPGR) announced the expansion of availability for medication abortion, now available to patients up to 12 weeks pregnant. The expansion, up from the previous 11 weeks of pregnancy, will allow more patients to access abortion services when they need it, via telehealth and in-person clinic visits.
Statement from Dr. Colleen McNicholas, Chief Medical Officer at Planned Parenthood Great Rivers:
“PPGR continues to execute on its mission to provide patient centered and evidenced based abortion care with as few barriers as possible. We trust that patients are the experts in their own lives, and by offering medication abortion later in pregnancy, we are supporting more patients choosing the method that is right for them.
“This latest expansion is yet another demonstration that Planned Parenthood will continue to center patients and science above all providing the best care, no matter what.”
Patients up to ten weeks pregnant who have an Illinois mailing address may also order medication abortion via the PPDirect mobile app from the privacy of their home without needing to schedule a clinic visit. A recent study involving PPGR’s research team has found that medication abortion administered at home is as safe and effective as when provided in person at health centers.