Abortion is a highly sensitive topic, with varied opinions and laws in different states across the United States. In Michigan, abortion is legal, however, there are several restrictions and requirements to be aware of. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the abortion laws in Michigan and the providers available in the state.
Abortion Legality and Timing
Abortion is legal in Michigan up until the stage of “viability”.
Viability is the stage in pregnancy when a fetus can potentially survive outside the womb with medical assistance, typically around 24 to 26 weeks of pregnancy. The actual period can vary and is determined by a healthcare provider based on the specific development of each fetus. However, many abortion providers stop offering the service earlier in pregnancy.
Michigan’s Abortion Laws
To further break down Michigan’s abortion laws, we have three key points:
24-hour Waiting Period
Michigan law requires a pregnant individual to receive counseling information from their abortion provider and then wait 24 hours before the abortion can be performed. This waiting period may be waived if the individual’s health is at risk due to the pregnancy.
Parental Consent for Minors
If the individual seeking an abortion is under the age of 18, they need permission from a parent or guardian. In situations where obtaining this permission isn’t an option, the individual can seek a “judicial bypass”, which would waive the requirement for parental involvement.
Legal Until Viability
As previously mentioned, abortion in Michigan is legal until the point of viability. After this point, exceptions may be made to save the life of the pregnant person.
Abortion Providers in Michigan
There are several abortion providers available to those residing in Michigan. Some providers offer virtual services, such as telehealth abortion pill visits and mail delivery of the abortion pill, while others offer in-person services.
Here are two virtual providers:
| Provider | Services | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Aid Access | Through 12 weeks, 0 days Telehealth abortion pill visit Abortion pill mail delivery Abortion pills for future use | aidaccess.org/ |
| Planned Parenthood of Michigan Telehealth | Through 10 weeks, 4 days Telehealth abortion pill visit Abortion pill mail delivery | www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-michigan/healthcare/telehealth |
Additionally, Michigan boasts 27 in-person abortion providers, sorted A-Z by city. Here are a few:
| City | Provider | Services | Address | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ann Arbor | Planned Parenthood – Ann Arbor West Health Center | Through 11 weeks, 0 days | 2370 W. Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor, MI | (734) 929-9480 |
| Ann Arbor | Planned Parenthood – Power Family Health Center | Through 19 weeks, 6 days | 3100 Professional Drive, Ann Arbor, MI | (734) 973-0710 |
| Ann Arbor | UM Health – Von Voigtlander Women’s Hospital | Through 24 weeks, 0 days | 1540 E. Hospital Drive, Floor 9, Ann Arbor, MI | (734) 763-6295 |
| Detroit | Planned Parenthood – Detroit Health Center | Through 11 weeks, 0 days | 4229 Cass Ave., Detroit, MI | (313) 831-7776 |
| Detroit | Scotsdale Women’s Center | Through 15 weeks, 6 days | 19305 West Seven Mile Road, Detroit, MI | (313) 538-2020 |
| Detroit | Summit Medical Center – Detroit | Through 23 weeks, 6 days | 15801 West McNichols Road, Detroit, MI | (313) 272-8450 |
| Detroit | Women’s Center of Michigan – Detroit | Through 16 weeks, 0 days | 15650 East Eight Mile Rd, Detroit, MI | (313) 526-3600 |
| Eastpointe | Eastland Women’s Clinic | Through 24 weeks, 0 days | 15921 East 8 Mile Road #1, Eastpointe, MI | (586) 774-4190 |
| Ferndale | Planned Parenthood – Ferndale Health Center | Through 11 weeks, 0 days | 23338 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, MI | (248) 399-5900 |
| Flint | Planned Parenthood – Flint Health Center | Through 17 weeks, 0 days | G-3371 Beecher Road, Flint, MI | (810) 238-3631 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is abortion legal in Michigan?
Yes, abortion is legal in Michigan up to the point of viability, which is typically around 24 to 26 weeks of pregnancy.
Do I need parental consent for an abortion in Michigan if I’m under 18?
Yes, you need parental consent. However, if getting parental consent is not an option, you can seek a judicial bypass.
Can I get an abortion in Michigan after viability?
After viability, exceptions may be made only to save the life of the pregnant person.
Can I get an abortion pill delivered to me in Michigan?
Yes, some providers, such as Aid Access and Planned Parenthood of Michigan Telehealth, offer telehealth services which include abortion pill delivery.
Understanding the specifics of Michigan’s abortion laws and knowing your options can help you make informed decisions about your health. Always reach out to your healthcare provider or a trusted legal advisor if you have any questions or concerns.