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Unplanned Pregnancy Help by State

New York allows abortion up to 24 weeks. If you're past that point, adoption offers a compassionate alternative with full support.

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How Late is Too Late for Abortion in New York?

If you’re reading this, you might be feeling panicked. Maybe you just found out you’re pregnant, or maybe you’ve known for a while but put off making a decision. Now you’re wondering: Is it too late?

Take a breath. You’re going to be okay.

In New York, the gestational limit for most abortions is 24 weeks. After that point, abortion is only available if the pregnancy poses a risk to your life or health, or if the fetus isn’t viable. If you’re approaching or past this window, you still have options—and one of them is adoption.

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Connect with an adoption professional today who can answer your questions and help you explore what’s possible.

How to Tell How Far Along You Are (and Why It Matters)

Pregnancy dating can feel confusing, but it’s the first step in understanding your options.

Most healthcare providers calculate your due date based on the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP). This means you’re technically “two weeks pregnant” before conception even occurs. An ultrasound can give you a more accurate gestational age, especially if your cycles are irregular.

Why This Matters

Abortion laws are based on gestational age, and so is the type of procedure available to you. The earlier you know how far along you are, the more options you’ll have. If you’re unsure, a clinic or pregnancy center can provide a free ultrasound to confirm your timeline.

If you’re worried you might have missed early signs of pregnancy, don’t panic. Many women don’t realize they’re pregnant until they’re several weeks along. What matters now is getting accurate information so you can make the right choice for you.

Abortion vs. Adoption in New York: Comparing Your Unplanned Pregnancy Options

When you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, understanding your options can help you feel more in control. Here’s how abortion and adoption compare in New York:

Access and Availability

Abortion: Available up to 24 weeks in New York without restrictions. After 24 weeks, exceptions exist for life or health of the mother or fetal non-viability. Clinics are concentrated in urban areas, and wait times can vary.

Adoption: Available at any point during pregnancy, at birth, or even after you’ve taken your baby home. Adoption professionals will welcome you no matter how far along you are.

Cost and Financial Support

Abortion: Costs range from $500 to several thousand dollars depending on gestational age and method. Medicaid covers abortion in New York, and some clinics offer sliding-scale fees.

Adoption: Completely free. Licensed adoption agencies cover pregnancy-related expenses like medical care, housing, utilities, and counseling. You receive support without any cost to you.

Emotional and Ongoing Support

Abortion: Many clinics offer counseling before the procedure. Some provide follow-up support, though the extent varies by provider.

Adoption: You’ll get personal care you deserve from your adoption specialist so that you feel safe during your journey. Counseling is available before, during, and after placement—for as long as you need it. Many birth mothers stay connected with adoptive families through open adoption.

Long-Term Outcomes

Abortion: Allows you to move forward quickly, but doesn’t provide ongoing financial or emotional support.

Adoption: You can focus on your goals and dreams, knowing your child will have all the opportunities in the world with a wonderful family. You have control over every aspect of the adoption process, from choosing the family to deciding how much contact you want.

If you’re past 20 weeks or feeling overwhelmed by the abortion deadline, know that adoption remains a compassionate option that can give your baby a bright future while supporting you through this time.

I Can’t Get an Abortion but Don’t Want to Be a Mom—What Are My Options?

If you’ve realized abortion isn’t available to you anymore, or if you’re having second thoughts about it, adoption can offer a path forward.

You can choose adoption at any point:

There’s no deadline for adoption the way there is for abortion. And you won’t be judged for the timing of your decision. Adoption professionals understand that this is a deeply personal choice, and they’ll support you no matter when you reach out.

Adoption After an Abortion Deadline: A Loving Choice

Choosing adoption doesn’t mean you’re giving up. It means you’re giving your child something you may not be able to provide right now—and that takes courage.

Through adoption:

You can choose a brighter future for your child, and for yourself. Learn more about how adoption works and what it could mean for your family.

Unplanned Pregnancy Resources Specific to New York

You don’t have to navigate this alone. New York offers a range of resources to support you through an unplanned pregnancy.

Pregnancy Resource Centers in New York

These centers provide free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and counseling:

Adoption Agencies Serving New York

If you’re considering adoption, these agencies can guide you through the process:

Healthcare and Financial Support for Pregnant Women in New York

New York provides several programs to help with medical and living expenses:

How Does Adoption Work in New York?

Adoption can feel overwhelming if you’ve never explored it before. Here’s a step-by-step look at the process:

1. Contact an Adoption Professional

Reach out to a licensed adoption agency. They’ll answer your questions, explain your rights, and help you understand what to expect.

2. Create Your Adoption Plan

You have control over every aspect of the adoption process. This includes:

3. Choose a Family

You get to choose the perfect family for your child. Review profiles, meet families (if you’d like), and select the one that feels right to you.

4. Receive Support and Financial Assistance

Licensed agencies provide comprehensive support, including:

5. Birth and Post-Birth Support

You’ll have support at the hospital and after your baby is born. Counseling services remain available for as long as you need them.

Where Can I Get Help Right Now in New York?

If you’re feeling stuck or unsure about what to do next, you’re not alone.

Get the support you need today from an unplanned pregnancy counselor who can give you personalized guidance on your situation.

You deserve care, compassion, and a path forward that honors your needs and your child’s future. Whatever you decide, help is available—and you don’t have to face this alone.