You can get an abortion at a hospital or an abortion clinic— both provide safe and high-quality care. Most people get an abortion at a clinic, but some may go to a hospital because of their health, pregnancy complications, or needing or wanting an induction abortion.

So, why would someone need an abortion at a hospital?

Pregnancy or health complications

Hospitals often have access to more medical specialists and equipment, which can be helpful for people with certain health conditions, like heart problems, severe anemia, bleeding disorders, or complications with the placenta (to just name a few).

Induction abortion

Some people getting abortions later in pregnancy may need more medically complex care, including induction abortions, which use medication to start labor and deliver the pregnancy through the vagina. While a small number of (incredible) abortion clinics provide this care (and abortion funds can help you travel), it’s likely you’re closer to a hospital that provides induction abortions.

After an induction abortion, some people may want to see, hold, or spend time with the baby, while others don't. This is such a personal choice and is never required. Both hospitals and abortion clinics should offer ways to see, hold, or honor this pregnancy.

To be clear, having a medical condition or being further along in pregnancy doesn't automatically mean you need a hospital. Many abortion clinics can safely care for people with complex medical needs and provide abortions later in pregnancy. It’s best to talk to the clinic about your medical history to see what the best options for your health are.

Is it better to get an abortion at a hospital or a clinic?

Both are safe options! The main differences are:

Scheduling

Abortion clinics can often offer appointments the next day or within a week, while hospitals may have longer wait times for non-emergency care. This obviously varies depending on the provider and your personal situation — it’s best to call for availability if you do require hospital care.

Cost

Hospital abortions can be more expensive than clinic abortions, but your health insurance may cover care at a hospital and not at a clinic, or vice versa. Both hospitals and clinics may offer financial assistance, and abortion funds may be able to help cover the cost of care in either setting.

Pain management

Hospitals generally offer more anesthesia options, but many abortion clinics also offer sedation and other ways to manage pain during a procedural abortion.

Recovery

Most procedural abortions at hospitals don't require an overnight stay, and recovery is usually similar to recovery at a clinic. Some people with more complex medical needs may need additional monitoring.

Vibes

How you feel in a clinic or hospital is also important! Some people feel more comfortable in a hospital, while others prefer a clinic. To just name one difference, clinics are often smaller and may feel more intimate or personal, while hospitals are usually larger, with more departments, staff, and patients coming and going. There's no right or wrong preference, and how comfortable you feel is just as important as these other differences.

How do I know if I need an abortion at a hospital?

Start by contacting an abortion clinic! Tell them about any medical conditions or pregnancy concerns you have. They can review your medical history, determine whether they can safely provide your care, and help you find hospital-based care if needed.

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