Georgia Abortion Law FAQs
The new Georgia abortion law that took effect on Wednesday, July 20, 2022, is officially known as Georgia House Bill 481. This bill was passed by the Georgia General Assembly on April 4, 2019, and it was signed by Governor Brian Kemp on May 7, 2019. However, a lawsuit prohibited it from going into effect immediately, as Georgia House Bill 481 violated the U.S. Constitution. On June 24, 2022, the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade which declared that abortions were a constitutional right. Now, individual states are allowed to make their own laws about abortions instead of being ruled by federal law.
Allow us to answer several frequently asked questions about the new Georgia abortion law:
What does the Georgia abortion law entail?
Previously in the state of Georgia, women were allowed to have an abortion until the baby was 20 weeks gestational age. Now, the new law permits women to have an abortion only if there is no detectable heartbeat. A heartbeat is normally detectable around 6 weeks of gestational age.
How is gestational age calculated?
The gestational age of the baby is calculated by the first day of your last period, although ovulation and implantation don’t occur until roughly two weeks after your period. By the time you miss your next period which is a tell-tale sign that a pregnancy may have formed, you will likely be about four weeks pregnant.
What type of pregnancy test should I take?
There are two types of pregnancy tests – a urine test and a blood test. The urine test detects hCG levels roughly 5 days before your missed period. A blood test can detect hCG levels roughly 6 days after ovulation. By having a blood test done at Women’s Clinic of Atlanta, you can find out that you’re pregnant roughly 7 – 10 days sooner than waiting to take a urine test. Text “appointment” to 404-777-4771 for a blood test.
Are there exceptions to the Georgia abortion law?
Yes, there are three exceptions to the Georgia abortion law. The exceptions are:
- Rape or incest occurred, and a police report was filed after the incident.
- The woman faces harm or potentially death if the pregnancy continues.
- The baby has a health condition (i.e., chromosomal abnormality) that would likely result in death.
What if I’m not ready to be a parent?
You have options. If there is no detectable heartbeat, you can get an abortion in the state of Georgia. There are two types of abortions – medical and surgical. Medical abortions consist of taking two different types of pills (mifepristone and misoprostol) within a span of three days. It will terminate the pregnancy and force it out. A surgical abortion consists of an abortionist using suction to remove the pregnancy from your uterus. It is more common to have a medical abortion in the early weeks of pregnancy.
Another option you have is adoption. Our team can discuss what that looks like for you, your baby, and the potential birth family, and we can connect you with wonderful adoption agencies in the Atlanta area.
How can Women’s Clinic of Atlanta help me with my unintended pregnancy?
For patients who confirm their pregnancy (via a pregnancy test) at our clinic, we offer an extended care program. We understand that every woman’s needs are different throughout pregnancy, so we create personalized care plans for each patient we work with. Don’t hesitate to call us today with your questions or to schedule an appointment to verify your pregnancy: 404-377-6640 (Decatur) or 404-937-3334 (Johns Creek)
If you need to take a pregnancy blood test, text “appointment” to 404-777-4771.
We know you need answers quickly. Our team will respond to your text or phone call within 24 hours. If you suspect pregnancy and need guidance, a pregnancy test, or an experienced medical professional to answer your questions, we are here for you.
Learn more about the Georgia abortion law and other abortion information in our blog series:
- Do I need a pregnancy blood test before taking the abortion pill?
- Georgia Abortion Law FAQs
- Morning After Pill FAQs
- Abortion Pills: What You Need to Know about a DIY Abortion
- Ectopic Pregnancy, Miscarriages, Medical & Surgical Abortions… What’s The Difference?
- Heartbeat Bill: What can I do if there’s a detectable heartbeat?