From day one at carafem, we set out to do something different. Founded in 2013, carafem was created to be a nimble, innovative abortion provider who centers our clients in everything we do. From visiting our website to coming to a brick-and-mortar location or accessing care via telehealth, carafem empowers people to make decisions and choices that are best for them, without an ounce of judgment — just easy to understand information and high quality care.

carafem is here to serve anyone and everyone in need of an abortion.

Abortion is a common form of healthcare and carafem believes it should be treated like any other medical experience. Abortion stigma is also real, and pervasive, so carafem is committed to fighting it by using the word abortion, frequently, and at normal talking levels. To help reinforce that abortion is normal, carafem unapologetically uses the word in all of our communications, both marketing and otherwise, to help smash stigma and start a conversation. We have done this from day one and will continue to do so, including in our latest video.

We created this video as a way to quickly and easily show who we are and what services carafem provides. Within the first 5 seconds of the video, we proudly state that carafem is an expert in abortion care. It’s the most important message so we wanted to lead with it. From abortion to birth control to STI testing and treatment, carafem can help.

Cara, and carafem, are here for you

The video also highlights “Cara”, our text-based virtual assistant who accompanies all clients in their abortion care. Named a top three advancement in femtech by Fast Company in 2023, Cara was created to help guide clients through their medication abortion. The most commonly used medication abortion regimen consists of two medications, each taken different ways, at different times, and have different side effects. Cara works in partnership with clients to create their personalized plan based around their schedules, then follows up with instructions, checking in with clients every step of the way, all the way through to their negative pregnancy.

Since Cara first launched in 2019, carafem’s medical team has cataloged tens of thousands of questions we’ve received from clients and created customized, compassionate, medically accurate responses for Cara. To date, Cara has exchanged over 1.2 million messages, helping people through their care in the middle of the night, on weekends, and every single holiday. If Cara is ever unable to fully answer a question or if further medical support is needed, clients are seamlessly connected with a member of their care team.

Cara Is Not Your Cable Company’s Chatbot

Most importantly, carafem’s clients love Cara. Many of them forget she’s not a real person, such as this client who refers to Cara as a nurse in their Google review:

Affordable at home abortion care

Finally, increasing access to abortion is why carafem was created so we partner with numerous abortion funds, both national and local, to offer financial assistance and accept insurance for in-person appointments and video visits in select states to help make this care more accessible for our clients. By doing so, the cost for an at home abortion ranges from $0 to $225 depending on need. We transparently share our pricing for both online and in-person care — something that’s hard to find in most medical experiences.

carafem. Here for you. Always.

To close out the video, we wanted to leave the viewers with this important message; carafem will be there for you. Always. It is our goal to ensure every client feels supported through all stages of their at home abortion experience.

If you or someone you know needs sexual or reproductive health care, visit our website to learn more and get started.

When we opened a carafem health center in the Nashville suburb of Mt. Juliet, Tennessee in February 2019, we anticipated challenges. Just two days after opening, city leaders convened to discuss an ordinance that would have forced us to close and relocate our office. Within those same two days of opening, our appointment schedule for the entire month filled with local residents seeking abortion care, highlighting the pressing need for this care in the community. This situation revealed two distinct truths: local politicians were determined to impede our work, while the community resolutely demonstrated their need for and reliance on our services.

Despite current legal restrictions on medically supervised abortion care within Tennessee, carafem has persevered. We are pleased to announce a recent victory: six anti-abortion extremists were convicted of felony conspiracy charges last week. This conviction stemmed from their actions of physically blocking the door to our office in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee on March 5, 2021.

Three years ago, this group of anti-abortion extremists unlawfully entered the medical building housing carafem’s Mt. Juliet Health Center and physically blocked our clinic doors. Some clients with appointments were unable to access our office due to the blockade. However, with the safety of our clients and staff always being our top priority, we were able to delay seeing most of our clients until the individuals trespassing and intimidating our clients and staff were removed. That morning, local law enforcement was able to remove an estimated 25-35 protestors from our otherwise quiet medical plaza, resulting in 11 eventual arrests.

The trial against six of these anti-abortion extremists concluded last week with a decisive victory for carafem and all abortion care providers. A federal jury unanimously found all six trespassers guilty of violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act, which safeguards patients’ right to access reproductive health centers. Sentencing is scheduled for July, with the convicted extremists facing up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $260,000.

Melissa Grant, carafem’s Chief Operations Officer, emphasized the organization’s unwavering commitment to the safety and security of clients and staff. Grant provided this statement after our victory:

“The intentional blockade of our carafem health center in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee was a premeditated act of trespass, aimed at obstructing our clients from accessing and our staff from providing essential healthcare services… We are gratified to witness justice being served.”

People who need abortions deserve high-quality, accessible, compassionate, and comprehensive medical care provided in their own communities. Abortion is a common experience for at least 1 in 4 people who can become pregnant. Abortion seekers are the experts in their own reproductive health experiences and should have the support to make the best decision for their lives, their futures, and for their families.

But this legal victory serves as a strong message to those who seek to restrict access to safe and legal abortions. It reaffirms that abortion care providers and patients deserve fair and protected access to vital reproductive healthcare, regardless of the political opinions of those who disagree.

carafem proudly provides high quality abortion care as part of more comprehensive reproductive health care in 17 states. We center the needs of our clients in everything we do. Whether people want to access care online, through video appointments, or in a health center, carafem strives to provide abortion care when and how people want it. We are incredibly grateful for our dedicated staff, excellent legal advocates, and the support of the people in the communities we serve.

While we are grateful for this legal win, we know our work is far from over. carafem remains steadfast in our commitment to continuing to expand access to high quality, compassionate abortion care in communities across our country.

To help sustain our vital work, please consider donating to carafem. Your support will help us continue providing high quality, compassionate abortion and reproductive health care.

As always, if you or someone you know needs sexual or reproductive health care, give us a call at 1-855-SAY-CARA or access care online.

“The safety and security of carafem clients and staff remain our utmost priority. The intentional blockade of our carafem health center in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, in March 2021 was a premeditated act of trespass, aimed at obstructing our clients from accessing and our staff from providing essential healthcare services. It serves as an unfortunate illustration of leveraging personal agendas to justify impeding our small business from operating. This verdict is a crucial step in delineating boundaries to safeguard small businesses from unwarranted intrusion by those driven by politically motivated grievances against us. We are gratified to witness justice being served.”

This holiday season, embrace the spirit of reproductive freedom, abortion access, sexual pleasure, and bodily autonomy! Providing abortion is an act of radical love and community care, which the holidays are all about. That’s why as an abortion provider, we’re here to sprinkle some reproductive joy and highlight the importance of choice during this festive season with a gift guide full of pro-abortion gift ideas. Most of these items benefit abortion funds, providers, or ally organizations, so you can also contribute to abortion access while shopping

What better way to show your support for reproductive rights than by exchanging pro-abortion presents with your loved ones? Or for yourself! Check out our guide of 11 gifts for the pro-abortion bestie in your life to help smash some abortion stigmaGrab some hot cocoa, cozy up, and let’s spread some abortion joy!

And, if you’re looking for even more gift-giving inspiration, check out our gift guide from last year as well!

1. Pro Abortion Jewelry

In the year of Barbie, this pink and sparkling “Abortion” necklace in the iconic Barbie font, is the absolute perfect gift for that Barbie, Ken, or Allan in your life! We’re certain Margot Robbie as Barbie would rock these Mife-Miso medication abortion earrings paired with this Abortion necklace to a ~giant blow-out party with all the Barbies and planned choreography and a bespoke song.

2. Everyone Loves Someone Who Had An Abortion Button or Throw Blanket

Our friends over at The Outrage have partnered with We Testify to create this stunning floral throw blanket with the slogan “Everyone knows someone who had an abortion.” As an added bonus, the throw blanket and button means this beautiful way to support abortion storytellers is available no matter your budget!

3. Merch from carafem’s Brand New Online Store!

We definitely can’t make a holiday gift guide without plugging the amazing abortion merch by yours truly, recently revamped and expanded! carafem’s merch combines beautiful artwork with rad slogans from Abortion, Yeah We Do That and Power to the Abortion Pill to Freedom to Choose and simply Destigmatize Abortion. Check out all the options at carafem’s Online Merch Store.

4. Recently Published Pro-Abortion Books

As true reading lovers, we are always on the lookout for more anything written about abortion, and both You or Someone You Love and Deep Care were wonderful books published this year. In this beautiful reflection of what it means to collectively achieve reproductive freedom and take care of each other, Hannah Matthews wrote what can only be called a heartfelt love note to abortion seekers, providers, and doulas. Meanwhile, Deep Care is an in-depth following of the work of community abortion providers starting in the 1970s, and their commitment and fight to care for their communities regardless of the law.

5. Make Your Own Abortion Sticker Pack

Slapping pro-abortion stickers on just about everything we own (journals, water bottles, laptop cases, etc) is certainly our love language. To elevate stickers as a holiday gift, we put together the perfect abortion access and education DIY sticker pack for you by combining a pre-made sticker sheet from I Need An A with these stickers from artist Sarah Epperson! There’s even a sticker Sarah made in collaboration with Plan C Pills to help spread awareness about abortion pills by mail.

6. Pro-Abortion Art Prints

Supporting your fav pro-abortion artists also means your home or office can be as beautiful and bold as your support for abortion access We’ve long known that Frog and Toad are gay icons, but did you also know they’re pro-abortion icons too?! This print from Sanna Legan is the perfect gift for the pro-abortion frog to your toad this holiday season. Liberal Jane, aka Caitlin Blunnie, a queer reproductive justice artivist, knows that all of our rights are entwined, and the fight for reproductive justice is a collective struggle. This print from Liberal Jane will show your commitment to fighting against abortion bans everywhere, because people in the South and Midwest deserve abortion access too!

7. Abortion Heart Koozie

Just because the weather is getting colder doesn’t mean your hands have to be cold from your drink! This adorable drink koozie from Shout Your Abortion is available in 9 colors and has stolen our ~heart.~ With prices starting at only $5, you can grab one for you and your besties!

Abortion Heart Koozie, $5

8. Fund Abortion Holographic Fanny Pack

It almost broke our hearts last year when we heard that this fanny pack was almost discontinued. Luckily, the amazing people over at the National Network of Abortion Funds brought this absolutely essential item back! It’s not a want, it’s a need. Holographic hands-free abortion access? Yes please!

Fund Abortion Holographic Fanny Pack, $25

9. Sex: The Gender Neutral Board Game

We couldn’t write a gift guide without including something for your pleasure! Last year, we recommended buying some sex toys or ethical porn for yourself or your special someone, and we’re so *excited* to share our find this year with you! With this interactive and exploratory sex-positive game, you and your boo(s) will create pleasure, connection, and joy.

Sex: The Gender Neutral Board Game, $12.50

10. Radical Abortion Sweatshirts

As we enter the winter months, these sweatshirts will keep you cozy while you’re volunteering as an abortion clinic escort, during an at home medication abortion, or during an in-office abortion! With proceeds benefiting either ACCESS: A Podcast About Abortion or the Abortion Fund of Ohio, you or your loved one will be warmed by the thought that their gift is supporting abortion access!

11. Set up a Sustainable, Monthly Donation for carafem

Last but certainly not least, you can also make a donation to carafem in honor of a friend or loved one. One time donations will support our efforts to provide high-quality, compassionate abortion care both online and in person. Setting up a monthly donation can help carafem even further sustain this urgent work. As more people lose access to abortion care in their communities and as attacks on abortion seekers and providers intensify, carafem is working diligently to expand abortion access and increase the quality of care. Donations to carafem are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

Monthly donation for carafem

We hope this gift guide will offer you inspiration! Wishing you radical, joyful, restorative, and pro-abortion holidays from your friends at carafem

BTW, throughout the holiday season, carafem is here for you! If you need abortion care, birth control, or STI testing and treatment, give us a call at 1-855-SAY-CARA or get care online.

Choix has been a trusted telemedicine clinic providing innovative sexual & reproductive healthcare and online abortion care in California, Colorado, Illinois, New Mexico, Maine, and Virginia since 2020. Due to the ever changing healthcare landscape, Choix has had to make the difficult decision to stop serving clients effective October 31. carafem is honored to work with the Choix team to ensure all Choix clients will have ongoing access to high quality online abortion care through carafem.

carafem is a leading national provider of compassionate abortion care both in our health centers and through the privacy of care at home medication abortion with telehealth. With nearly a decade of experience providing quality, faster and easier reproductive care to over 100,000 people, carafem believes all health care, especially reproductive health and abortion care, should be easy to understand and access. As an Abortion Care Network member and certified National Abortion Federation provider, carafem is committed to you and your needs.

For the past several years, Choix has been an invaluable telehealth abortion provider, offering safe, affordable, patient-centered sexual & reproductive healthcare to over 8,000 patients across 6 states. Choix was led by experts deeply committed to innovation and access to abortion care; was nationally recognized by the National Abortion Federation, FastCompany, and a Slice of Healthcare; and has partnered with UCSF ANSIRH. carafem is honored Choix has decided to refer its clients to carafem. Now that Choix will be closing its virtual doors, carafem is ready to warmly welcome Choix patients for online reproductive health care.

carafem offers medically supported online abortion pill care in 16 different states with 24/7 medical support and check-ins from abortion care experts. You can choose between our Immediate Evaluation and request abortion pills at any time online, or schedule a video visit with a care provider.

carafem commits to providing compassionate, high-quality abortion care, and our client satisfaction and reviews show an overwhelming number of people recommend our services. Our clients appreciate the convenience, accessibility, and compassion they receive from carafem, as detailed in this review from a client below:

Online Abortion Care with carafem costs between $0-249 depending on your eligibility for financial assistance. carafem is currently offering Online Abortion care in Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Virginia, with plans to expand into even more states, including California.

Ready to get started? You can get care online or call 855-729-2272 to schedule an appointment.

One year ago today, the Supreme Court decimated abortion access with its decision in the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization court case that eliminated federal protections for abortion. While this past year has been devastating, it has also grounded our community in a collective fight for abortion access and increased awareness of revolutionary abortion options like telehealth abortion care.

As carafem reflects on the anniversary of Dobbs v. Jackson, we cannot help but feel the weight of the impact it has had on abortion access in the United States, especially for the 1 in 3 women that lost access to care in their home state. Throughout the past year, carafem has been working hard to increase access with online and in-center care, and is now serving 17 states.

The bottom line is this: Some people are working hard to ban abortions, but we’re working harder to provide them. Donate now to help us continue the fight.

Despite the challenges of the past year, carafem strives to provide the best possible abortion experience, specialized to each person’s needs. We are offering increased abortion options at a lower price point ($199-249 for online care), all while providing compassionate support throughout the whole process. In the wake of the Dobbs v. Jackson Supreme Court decision, more people are learning about different abortion options, including the availability and effectiveness of medication abortion.

Telehealth Abortion Care is Important for Abortion Access

Telehealth abortion care has become increasingly important for abortion access, as it allows people to receive abortion care in the comfort and privacy of their own homes. carafem has offered online abortion care since 2019, but most recently, began offering Immediate Evaluations, allowing people to access care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. By expanding the range of abortion options available, carafem is meeting people where they’re at and enabling people to choose the abortion experience that’s best for them.

But while the state of abortion care is dire, carafem remains more committed than ever to providing abortion care to those who need it and fighting to ensure that they can access it. We believe that everyone has the right to make their own decisions about their body and their life, without interference from politicians or anti-abortion activists.

The past year has been particularly difficult for abortion providers and seekers across the country, as the Dobbs v. Jackson ruling has emboldened anti-abortion extremists. Attacks on abortion, like the medication Mifepristone, and a wave of new state restrictions have intensified,  resulting in a significant reduction in abortion services and even permanent closures of clinics that have served their communities for decades.

One client’s review of their appointment with carafem highlighted the importance of abortion access, now more than ever:

In the wake of today’s political climate, it has been extremely hard to seek accommodations for abortions. But I am so glad I was able to find a clinic as trustworthy, confidential and supportive as carafem. carafem was my saving grace and they were so kind throughout my entire process… The doctor was also extremely sweet and patient with me. Everyone I spoke to explained the procedure very thoroughly to me and always made sure I had all my questions answered. I left feeling confident in my knowledge (as I chose the medical route) to complete the steps at home… Thank you so much, carafem, for helping me make this very difficult decision less scary and for having such amazing staff.

But carafem also needs your support ​— we cannot do this work alone. The past year has shown us just how vital the support of our community and donors is, and we are forever grateful for it. Your donations make it possible for us to continue providing abortion care to those who need it. 

Need abortion, birth control or STI testing and treatment or know someone who does? Give us a call at 1-855-SAY-CARA or schedule an appointment online.

When the news came in that the Supreme Court had stayed the 5th Circuit decision to restrict access to mifepristone, many of us at carafem breathed a sigh of relief. We put away our contingency plans and assured our team we were business as usual in all 18 states that we serve come Saturday morning. But we didn’t celebrate.

This completely baseless case to limit a safe, effective medication should not be part of the national conversation and should not have made it so high up in the courts. And we know the small number of vocal anti-choice extremists will continue to do everything in their power to limit access to safe and effective abortion care. To them we say, “Try and stop us.”

We are not afraid. We will not back down. We will keep our eyes on the horizon, providing respectful, thoughtful, and affordable abortion care to those who want it, no matter what. We will keep working to create a future where abortion is legal, free of stigma, and wildly convenient in all 50 states. We believe that everyone has the right to make their own decisions about their bodies and their futures, no matter their income, immigration status, physical ability, zip code, political views, or religious affiliation.

And we are not alone. We are proud to be part of the majority of people in the U.S. who support access to abortion care. We are not going to let the small minority of anti-choice extremists dictate our future. But we do need financial support to keep our momentum going.

By donating to carafem, you are siding with the fight for bodily freedom. Your contribution will help us expand our online abortion care services to more states, reach more people, and continue to provide compassionate care, even in the most turbulent of times.

Join us in this fight for a better future. Together, we can create a world where everyone has the freedom to make their own choices about their bodies and their lives.

P.S. Donations to FemHealth USA (doing business as carafem) are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

P.P.S. Need abortion, birth control or STI testing and treatment or know someone who does? Send them to carafem.org.

After a year of fighting for abortion rights, we’re using the holidays to celebrate our collective resistance, resilience, and to take time for restoration and healing. While we can’t escape capitalism (yet), we can use the holidays to show our support for issue areas we’re passionate about, like reproductive justice and abortion access!

As your friendly neighborhood abortion provider, the carafem team has put together a gift guide for your abortion badasses and repro besties — or for yourself. This year, ditch the hanger inspired gifts and gendered language that excludes trans people. This holiday season we’re sharing a few of our favorite radically inclusive reproductive justice inspired gifts!

1. Pro-Abortion Art

This artwork by Micah Bazant would be a beautiful way to show your support for people who have had abortions. The phrase, “Everyone Loves Someone Who Had an Abortion,” comes from abortion storyteller, activist, and We Testify founder, Renee Bracey Sherman. As an added bonus, the profits from sales will benefit another independent abortion provider, Partners in Abortion Care.

Want more pro-abortion artwork options? Check out the Liberal Jane store for art and accessories by Caitlin Blunnie, a queer reproductive justice artivist.

Everyone Loves Someone Who Had an Abortion Artwork, Micah Bazant, $30. Free PDF here.

2. Funding Abortion is Hot Girl Shit Fanny Pack

This fanny pack is perfect for all your sexual and reproductive health needs, like carrying around condoms, birth control, and abortion pills! Being a hot girl is a state of mind and a way of life, and funding abortions is absolutely doing hot girl shit. But don’t just take it from us, take it from the Hot Girl herself ​— Megan Thee Stallion is unapologetically pro-choice, saying, “My Body, My Mothaf*cking Choice.” Plus, this fanny pack is sold directly from an abortion fund, so you know your purchase will help finance someone’s abortion. We know that’s right

Want another option, or just another fanny pack? The National Network of Abortion Funds has a Fund Abortion Build Power holographic, iridescent fanny pack and this is the last chance to get it! Sadly, the fanny pack is being discontinued so grab one while you still can.

Hot Girl Shit Fanny Pack, The Reproductive Freedom Fund of New Hampshire, $24

3. Glittering Abortion Accessories: Fund Abortion hair pin

For the abortion funder in your life, what better way to spread the word about supporting abortion funds than with these rhinestone Fund Abortion hair pins from the National Network of Abortion Funds. Funding abortion has never been so glamorous!

Fund Abortion rhinestone hairpins, National Network of Abortion Funds, $30

4. Reproductive Justice Gift Box

Coming up with enough gifts for one person to show them how much you care can sometimes be difficult. Let the activist hub The Outrage take away the stress for you with this Reproductive Justice Gift Box! Complete with four separate gifts, this is the perfect bundle! Or if you’re on a budget, individual items from the box like the ASL Pro-Choice Sticker Pack make great stocking stuffers.

Contents include: My Body My Choice Unisex Tee; Boob Print Makeup Pouch; ASL Pro-choice Sticker Pack; Elephant In The Womb Button

Reproductive Justice Gift Box, The Outrage, $60

5. Reproductive Justice Books

Whether you’re a bookworm deep into BookTok or a casual reader looking to build your personal library, these reproductive justice and abortion-related books are a great addition to anyone’s coffee table. This is also a great way to support your local bookstore in your community!

Our top favs are:

• Reproductive Rights as Human Rights: Women of Color and the Fight for Reproductive Justice; by Zakiya Luna
• You’re the Only One I’ve Told: The Stories Behind Abortion; by Meera Shah
• Killing the Black Body: Race, Reproduction, and the Meaning of Liberty; by  Dorothy Roberts
• Shout Your Abortion; edited by Amelia Bonow and Emily Nokes

Reproductive Rights as Human Rights: Women of Color and the Fight for Reproductive Justice; by Zakiya Luna, Bookshop, $40.25

6. Abortion Jewelry saying Fuck Dobbs

With these jewelry pieces, you’ll be destigmatizing abortion in style. The Fuck Dobbs necklace in 14k gold is both stunning and educational. The Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Supreme Court decision this summer overturned Roe v. Wade and federal protections for abortion access. That makes this necklace the perfect Fuck Dobbs and Fuck SCOTUS statement piece! Or you could go for other cute jewelry pieces from Shout Your Abortion, like an Abortion Necklace or Mife & Miso Earrings.

Fuck Dobbs Necklace, Shout Your Abortion, $40

7. Feminist Porn and Sex Toys

Part of being pro-abortion and reproductive justice is encouraging pleasure, fun sexual exploration, and paying sex workers and for your porn! This holiday season, consider buying a fun sex toy or some ethical, feminist porn to really show your appreciation for that special someone.

You could buy a subscription from your favorite Only Fans creator, or subscribe to a feminist porn website like the very NSFW Bellesa Plus, Dipsea Audio Erotica, or CHEEX, which pair sexual education with pleasure.

One toy we’re been reaching for lately is the Bellesa Air Vibe with that “O”-so-good dual clit suction and g-spot vibrator. Or any other toy from the Bellesa Boutique!

We’re also happy to share a 50% off code at Adam & Eve. Just use “CARAFEM” at checkout for 50% off of your festive fun!

Bellesa Airvibe, Bellesa Boutique, $99

8. Abortion Merch from carafem

We can’t make a holiday gift guide without plugging the amazing abortion merch yours truly launched this year! carafem’s merch combines beautiful artwork with rad slogans from Abortion is Healthcare and Power to the Abortion Pill to Freedom to Choose and Free the Uterus. Check out all the options at carafem’s Store

If you’d rather just give directly to a compassionate abortion provider, you can donate to carafem here.

Abortion is Healthcare crewneck sweatshirt, carafem, $32.99

9. Donate to carafem!

You can also make a donation to carafem in honor of a friend or loved one. Donations to carafem are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

BTW, throughout the holiday season, carafem is here for you! If you need abortion care, birth control, or STI testing and treatment, give us a call at 1-855-SAY-CARA or schedule an appointment online.

In an unprecedented act last week, an appeals court in Georgia allowed a six-week abortion ban to take effect immediately.

carafem’s Atlanta health center and the Virtual Visit Center were both seeing clients at the moment this happened. With broken hearts, we were forced to turn away over 100 clients and help them find alternative options for care. Today, the center is open and providing abortion care within the legal bounds of the new restrictions, but six weeks is before most people know they are pregnant.

We’re not going down without a fight.

Just yesterday, carafem joined a lawsuit to try to block this ban. Represented by the American Civil Liberties Union, carafem and other abortion providers and advocates, along with the reproductive justice collective Sister Song, have joined together to resist the six-week ban on abortion care. Several carafem clients added their voices as affidavits in the argument, expressing fear and frustration in their loss of bodily freedom. Join us in the fight by making a donation now.

Severe abortion restrictions are affecting millions.

carafem has provided compassionate, high-quality abortion care in Georgia since 2016, and has provided reproductive health services to thousands of people. For years, abortion has been increasingly difficult to access, especially in the South, as political attacks and legal restrictions intensified. But with the recent Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson, abortion bans and severe abortion restrictions are affecting millions of people across the country. We know abortion restrictions compound and disproportionately impact low-income people, BIPOC, undocumented people and migrants, LGBTQIA+ people, those with disabilities, people living in rural areas, and others already facing oppression.

On July 20th when a Georgia court allowed a ban on abortion after fetal cardiac activity is detected, the restriction began immediately, forcing abortion providers to turn away many people seeking abortion care. Prior to this action, Georgians could seek the abortion care they needed in their home state until 22 weeks gestation. However, now many people will be forced to travel up to hundreds of miles to Florida or North Carolina to receive abortion care past six weeks.

carafem continues to provide abortion care in Georgia.

carafem is a proud abortion provider, and will continue serving our communities within the bounds of these restrictions. carafem is committed to doing what it takes — including holding states accountable in court — to fight for everyone’s right to abortion care. Help us by making a donation today.

carafem Expands Abortion Pill by Mail Service to Maine

As restrictions increase for people seeking safe, convenient, and quality abortion care in the US, carafem is more committed than ever to expanding abortion care in all states that allow it. We’re proud to share that our client centered, medically-supported at home abortion pill care is now available in Maine.

In 2021, carafem made our telehealth abortion care available in seven new states in direct response to a lack of access to abortion care stemming from the pandemic and growing legal barriers. This latest expansion will ensure that safe, affordable, and high quality abortion care will be available in 15 US states including Colorado, Connecticut, DC, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Virginia. (We’ve expanded to even more states, click here for the full list!)

Introducing Immediate Evaluations in Maine

Now, carafem is launching an Immediate Evaluation for Abortion Pills so our clients can receive compassionate abortion care any time of day​ — without a video or in-person visit — and receive immediate feedback on their medical eligibility to receive abortion pills in the mail.

Safe and effective abortion pills at your fingertips.

carafem’s Immediate Evaluation gives you the option to request abortion pills at any time online, and receive them in a discreet package within 1-4 business days. This service ranges from $0-199 and is available to anyone who is medically eligible in Illinois, Colorado, New Mexico, Maine or Maryland whose period started less than about 10 weeks ago. carafem partners with abortion funds to offer financial assistance to people traveling from out of state who qualify.

Through a simple online process, carafem’s team of highly skilled providers will review your medical information and offer you support throughout your abortion.

Here’s how it works:

1. 1. First, fill out an Immediate Evaluation form on the carafem website any time of day, 24/7 to find out instantly if you are a candidate for medically supported abortion pills at home. Select your shipping option and process your payment, then watch a short video to learn to use your abortion pills, and sign consent forms. With an Immediate Evaluation, you do not need to have a video visit or phone call.
   2. A carafem clinician will review your information within two business days and submit your prescription to our online pharmacy.
   3. The medications will be mailed to you, and you’ll receive a tracking link via text. Your abortion medications will be sent in a private and discreet package that will arrive within 1-4 business days, depending on the shipping option you selected. Your medications and complete instructions on how to use them will be included in your package.
   4. When you’re ready, you can take your abortion medications and receive 24/7 text support through Cara and our team of medical professionals.

At carafem, we strive to provide care that is respectful of and responsive to the individual needs of our clients. We are actively working to provide abortion care in as many locations as possible, and hope by doing so, we are able to better put high quality care within reach of those living in rural communities or who face barriers to visiting a clinic in person.

About the Abortion Pill

carafem’s medically supported at home abortion pill service is a safe option for most people seeking care and is available in the first 11 weeks of pregnancy. These medications have been safely used by millions of pregnant people across the US for over 20 years. Most often, this process involves taking a couple of medications over about 2 days. Working together these medications cause cramping and bleeding to empty the uterus. The cost of carafem’s at home abortion care service ranges from $0-249, and financial assistance may be available as a part of a discussion with your carafem care team.

Personalized and Medically Supported Abortion Care

A person seeking abortion services in Maine can fill out our Immediate Evaluation form and after receiving a prescription your package will arrive in 1-4 days. Along with the abortion pill medication, people who choose carafem will also receive options for medication to help with pain, nausea, and a birth control method at the time of care. Also included are some comfort care items to further make the process at home a little easier. carafem provides 24/7 personalized support from a trained care team throughout the process from the appointment until the final follow-up and will be with you every step of the way.

“There are many reasons a person may prefer a medically supported, at home abortion,” Grant adds. “Our hope is that carafem can provide people with options to receive care in the way that makes the most sense to them, allowing them to get answers without leaving the house or playing phone tag. Expanding options for access to reliable healthcare is critical so that people can receive affordable care where and when they need it.”

Expanding Abortion Access

Maine is joining a growing list of over a dozen states who can access carafem’s services. To make an appointment in any of the states we serve, please call (855) 729-2272 or schedule an appointment online.

The reproductive health field has deep roots in white supremacy, racism, and misogyny and has consequently harmed, sterilized, and killed people of color, particularly Black women. carafem is committed to ensuring we do not perpetuate this legacy, and we understand all struggles for liberation are inherently intertwined. carafem remains a proud abortion provider, and believes in the principles of reproductive justice—the “human right to maintain personal bodily autonomy, have children, not have children, and parent the children we have in safe and sustainable communities,” as defined by SisterSong. From racial justice, to immigration justice, to queer and trans justice, to disability justice and more, reproductive justice has deep roots in intersectional approaches to resisting oppression.

A core tenet of reproductive justice is safe, accessible, and compassionate abortion care for all who want and need it, and we are determined to provide high-quality abortion care to the fullest extent of the law. But we need your help—with the decimation of Roe v. Wade, attacks on abortion care will only continue to increase and become even more pervasive.

In the wake of this Supreme Court decision, more than half of the states in our country have already enacted legislation to severely restrict or completely ban abortion care, making abortion inaccessible to millions of people. We know the long fight for abortion rights against this Supreme Court decision has only just begun, and we’ve been planning for this moment. carafem is ready to resist unjust abortion bans in the courts and in our health centers.

Follow these great groups to learn more, get involved, and donate: 

• SisterSong: Website, Instagram, Twitter 
• Black Mamas Matter Alliance: Website, Instagram, Twitter
• SisterReach: Website, Instagram, Twitter
• Jamaa Birth Village: Website, Instagram, Twitter
• Assata’s Daughters: Website, Facebook
• Brave Space Alliance: Website, Instagram, Twitter

When the news broke last night about the leaked draft opinion to overturn Roe, our first thoughts immediately went to our clients. Clients that have appointments today, tomorrow, or may want one weeks from now who may be confused about whether or not abortion is legal. We want to be clear: abortion is still legal in all 50 states.   

We’re thinking of the most marginalized people who will face the most inequity when seeking abortion care. Abortion bans disproportionately impact Black, Indigenous, People of Color, low-income people, disabled people, trans and queer people, immigrants, and other marginalized people. carafem believes that medical care should focus on the physical comfort and emotional wellbeing of our clients. It also means that our client and their family’s preferences, values, and socioeconomic conditions must be respected. An important piece of this is that the right care is provided at the right time and place, and preferably within their own communities. 

Secondly, this recent leak of documents from the Supreme Court seems to indicate that the upcoming Supreme Court ruling will gut or reverse Roe v Wade and leave the regulation of abortion up to the states.

We have seen with the current abortion restrictions in the South that make abortion harder to receive do nothing to stop the need for abortion. We anticipate surges of people seeking care will flee hostile states to obtain access to abortion care in states like Illinois and others who have made a commitment to keep abortion both legal and available.

carafem is very grateful to be able to serve our clients in Illinois. We currently provide abortion care both for in-state residents and also for those who travel to us from great distances seeking appointments at our heath center in Skokie and with medically supervised abortion care with pills at home. More states need to protect access to abortion care like Illinois, to assure that their residents can receive access to safe abortion care within their own communities.  

Finally, we’ve also been working to make abortion care a more accessible option for those who need to travel for telehealth abortion care. Instead of spending time in a clinic, people can meet with a provider over a secure video visit and pick up medication in a nearby state. This reduces cost, takes less time, and is more private for many of our clients. carafem serves 15 states (and growing) with medically supported at home abortion pills and we’re working to raise funds to continue to expand this innovative, high quality care to all states that allow it. If you’re able, make a donation today to support this work. 

carafem Expands At Home Abortion Care to Three New States

As restrictions increase for people seeking safe, convenient, and quality abortion care in the US, carafem is more committed than ever to expanding abortion care in all states that allow it. We’re proud to share that our client centered, medically-supported at home abortion pill care is now available in Colorado, New Mexico, and Delaware.

In 2021, carafem made our telehealth abortion care available in seven new states in direct response to a lack of access to abortion care stemming from the pandemic and growing legal barriers. This latest expansion will ensure that safe, affordable, and high quality abortion care will be available in 16 US states including:

• Colorado
• Connecticut
• DC
• Delaware
• Illinois
• Iowa
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Minnesota
• Nevada
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• Rhode Island
• Vermont
• Virginia

“At carafem, we strive to provide care that is respectful of and responsive to the individual needs of our clients,” says Melissa Grant, carafem’s Chief Operations Officer. “We are actively working to provide abortion care in as many locations as possible, and hope by doing so, we are able to better put high quality care within reach of those living in rural communities or who face barriers to visiting a clinic in person.”

About the Abortion Pill

carafem’s medically supported at home abortion pill service is a safe option for most people seeking care and is available in the first 11 weeks of pregnancy. These medications have been safely used by millions of pregnant people across the US for over 20 years. Most often, this process involves taking a couple of medications over about 2 days. Working together these medications cause cramping and bleeding to empty the uterus. The cost of carafem’s abortion pill by mail service ranges from $0-249, and financial assistance may be available as a part of a discussion with your carafem care team.

Personalized and Medically Supported Abortion Care

A person seeking abortion services in Colorado or New Mexico can determine their eligibility for at home abortion care with an immediate evaluation, while people in Delaware can schedule a virtual appointment with a medical provider. Along with the abortion pill medication, people who choose carafem will also receive options for medication to help with pain, nausea, and a birth control method at the time of care. Also included are some comfort care items to further make the process at home a little easier. carafem provides 24/7 personalized support from a trained care team throughout the process from the appointment until the final follow-up and will be with you every step of the way.

“There are many reasons a person may prefer a medically supported, at home abortion,” Grant adds. “Visiting with a provider over secure video chat allows for greater privacy, support, and flexibility within the process of having an abortion, including the location, timing, and cost. Our hope is that carafem can provide people with options to receive care in the way that makes the most sense to them, allowing them to get answers without leaving the house or playing phone tag. Expanding options for access to reliable healthcare is critical so that people can receive affordable care where and when they need it.”

Expanding Abortion Access

Colorado, New Mexico, and Delaware are joining a growing list of states who can access carafem’s services, including Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, Nevada, Virginia, Vermont, Rhode Island, and the District of Columbia. To make an appointment in any of the states we serve, please call (855) 729-2272 or schedule an appointment online.

From identifying new and innovative ways to provide abortion care across the US, to fighting to maintain reproductive health care access for vulnerable people in the courts, to expanding the number of states where we can provide medically supported abortion care at home after a discrete telehealth visit, carafem is working to improve abortion access and options while providing the most modern, high-quality, and accessible abortion care possible.

carafem believes that one of the most impactful ways we can contribute to positive change is to collect data and participate in research. Many of the restrictions legislators have placed on abortion care have been implemented on the false premise that abortion is different or less safe than other kinds of healthcare. Years of evidence collected across our country prove otherwise — abortion is an extremely safe and commonly shared experience for people around the world.

In 2019, carafem began a partnership with Gynuity Health Projects called the TelAbortion study, a groundbreaking effort to provide abortion pills to people through the mail after a secure, encrypted health care visit over video. As a part of this project, carafem recruited volunteers who wanted to receive abortion care at home without visiting a health center. Each person was fully informed of the process and consented to sharing the outcomes and their feedback of the telehealth abortion appointment through participation in our study. Together with other abortion providers across the country, carafem provided results that proved it’s a safe and effective option to receive abortion pills through the mail. 

In December 2021, we were pleased to see the FDA permanently remove the longstanding requirement to travel to a clinic to receive abortion pills. carafem is proud to have contributed to the FDA’s decision to change the way people can choose to receive care. Our clients have told us that telehealth abortion care is an important piece to improving abortion access that is available to people where, when, and how they prefer to receive it.

carafem is proud not only to offer high-quality, compassionate health care in person and through telehealth, but also to contribute to the fight for legal access to abortion in the face of continued, needless restrictions. Our partnership with health care partners in the communities we serve, along with legal defenders like the ACLU has helped to thwart attempts to place undue burden on abortion access. We will continue to engage in legal battles and to participate in gathering data to better understand how we can best serve those who need care.

carafem’s first priority is a focus on the client experience. As a barometer of the quality of our care, carafem partnered with Ibis Reproductive Health from March 2018 through December 2019, to measure satisfaction with our medication abortion services. The study was conducted at our Georgia health center and found the majority of both telehealth and in-person clients “value the compassionate and nonjudgmental care provided by carafem staff, and felt well-informed about the medication abortion process and their contraceptive options.” Find the client satisfaction research study here.

At the center of all we do will always be our clients who inspire the carafem model of care. This means health care that is collaborative, coordinated, and focused on each client’s preferences, values, and emotional well-being. We thank the tireless energy of our staff, volunteers and donors who help to make that care a reality.

Learn more about additional research studies we’ve participated in here: 

• Evaluation of a direct to patient telemedicine abortion service in the United States
• Expansion of a direct-to-patient telemedicine abortion service in the United States and experience during the COVID-19 pandemic
• Clinical and service delivery implications of omitting ultrasound before medication abortion provided via direct-to-patient telemedicine and mail in the U.S.
• Exploring potential interest in missed period pills in two US states
• Medication Abortion with Misoprostol-Only: A Sample Protocol
• Medication abortion on TikTok: misinformation or reliable resource?
• Clinical outcomes of medication abortion using misoprostol-only: a retrospective chart review at an abortion provider organization in the United States
• Acceptability of two no-test telehealth Medication Abortion regimens among patients in the US

If you’re like us, this year’s anniversary of Roe v. Wade feels bittersweet. Typically, the anniversary is a celebration of bodily freedom in the United States, but this year, our hearts are with the people in Texas who face extreme threats to their autonomy and access to basic healthcare. Our minds are with the people in many other states such as Mississippi, whose future access to abortion is at risk. We remain in unwavering solidarity with our allies, women, and all people who can become pregnant who want and need abortion care.

The legal future of abortion access in the United States has never been this uncertain. For nearly 50 years the U.S. Supreme Court has guaranteed a person’s legal right to abortion. However, with abortion care facing the highest number of legislative attacks since Roe v. Wade, this right is in jeopardy. In several forthcoming decisions, the Supreme Court may overturn the legal protection of abortion. Abortion advocates and patients know what’s at stake — people will always need reproductive health care, no matter the outcome of these court cases.

Make no mistake: the legal right to an abortion has not and will not guarantee equitable access to this vital reproductive health care service. In many states, especially in the South and Midwest, people have been facing monumental legal obstacles to abortion, and across the country systemic barriers remain prevalent. Since September 1, 2021, Texas legislators banned abortions after 6 weeks — before most people even know they’re pregnant. This law has had devastating impacts not only on Texans, but on countless people in every state sharing a border with or near Texas. More than 20 other states have similar versions of restrictive laws, also called “trigger bans,” already drafted in the event Roe v. Wade is overturned. If the Supreme Court were to essentially reverse the protections of Roe v. Wade, barriers like “travel-related logistical issues, system navigation issues, limited clinic options, financial issues, and state or clinic restrictions” will compound and disproportionately impact low-income people, BIPOC, LGBTQIA2S+ people, those with disabilities, people living in rural areas, and others already facing oppression.

All people deserve to have access to high quality and convenient abortion care, and at carafem, we are determined to offer that care to those who want it. In addition to offering comprehensive reproductive care at our four health centers in the DC, Atlanta, Chicago, and Nashville metro areas, carafem also offers medically supported at home abortion pills in 12 states. 

carafem clients can receive abortion pill medication, delivered discreetly as soon as the day after a video visit with a compassionate medical provider. We’ve found many clients prefer the convenience and privacy of getting the abortion pill at home and have peace of mind with 24/7 medical support from carafem. With the FDA’s recent decision to permanently allow people to receive abortion medications by mail, we know telehealth abortion care will be an important piece helping to ensuring access to abortion is available to people where and when and how they want it.  

In the coming years, carafem is working to expand our model of telehealth abortion care to all states that allow it. We’re doing our best to make abortion care more accessible to those that need to travel by offering efficient video visits with trusted medical providers in nearby states. We’re participating in research studies to build a body of evidence that shows how safe and effective telehealth abortion care is. We’re investing in technology to create a more comforting, informed experience for those taking the abortion pill at home. We believe in a future of abortion care must be inclusive and accessible to all people where, when, and how they want it.  

carafem Expands Abortion Pill by Mail Service to Rhode Island

As we continue our mission to directly respond to increasing nationwide roadblocks to accessible abortion care, carafem is proud to share that we’ve added Rhode Island to the growing number of US States that can access our medically supported at home abortion pill service. carafem’s by-mail abortion pill delivery coupled with private secure access to online health visits increases Rhode Islanders’ access to safe and affordable at-home abortion care.

“Telehealth services have quickly become instrumental in improving access to medical care in the U.S. Now, carafem is bringing that same option for those seeking abortion care, and we are thrilled to bring medically supported abortion pill by mail service to the people of Rhode Island,” says Melissa Grant, COO of carafem. “Now, people in Rhode Island can receive the reproductive health care services they need, on the timeline they want, in a place they feel most comfortable, and with a provider they trust.”

About the Abortion Pill

carafem’s medically supported at home abortion pill service is a safe option for most people seeking care and is available in the first 11 weeks of pregnancy. These medications have been safely used by millions of pregnant people across the US for over 20 years. Most often, this process involves taking a couple of medications over about 2 days. Working together these medications cause cramping and bleeding to empty the uterus. The cost of carafem’s abortion pill by mail service ranges from $250-375, and financial assistance may be available as a part of a discussion with your carafem care team. 

Personalized and Medically Supported Abortion Care

A person seeking abortion services in Rhode Island can schedule a virtual appointment with a medical provider and receive abortion pills as soon as the next day. Along with the abortion pill medication, people who choose carafem will also receive options for medication to help with pain, nausea, and a birth control method at the time of care. Also included are some comfort care items to further make the process at home a little easier.  carafem provides 24/7 personalized support from a trained care team throughout the process from the appointment until the final follow-up and will be with you every step of the way.

“There are many reasons a person may prefer a medically supported, at-home abortion,” Grant adds. “Visiting with a provider over secure video chat allows for greater privacy, support, and flexibility within the process of having an abortion, including the location, timing, and cost. Our hope is that carafem can provide people with options to receive care in the way that makes the most sense to them, allowing them to get answers without leaving the house or playing phone tag. Expanding options for access to reliable healthcare is critical so that people can receive affordable care where and when they need it.”

Expanding Abortion Access

Rhode Island is joining a growing list of over a dozen states who can access carafem’s services. To make an appointment in any of the states we serve, please call (855) 729-2272 or schedule an appointment online. 

carafem Expands Abortion Pill by Mail Service to Three New States

As restrictions increase for people seeking safe, convenient, and quality abortion care in the US, carafem is more committed than ever to expanding telehealth abortion care in all states that allow it. We’re proud to share that our client centered, medically-supported at home abortion pill care is now available in Massachusetts, Nevada, and Vermont.

Personalized and Medically Supported Abortion Care

In 2021, carafem made our telehealth abortion care available in seven new states in direct response to a lack of access to abortion care stemming from the pandemic and growing legal barriers. This latest expansion will ensure that safe, affordable, and high quality abortion care will be available in the following US states:

• Colorado 
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• The District of Columbia 
• Illinois 
• Iowa
• Maine 
• Maryland 
• Massachusetts 
• Minnesota 
• Nevada 
• New Jersey 
• New Mexico
• Rhode Island
• Vermont
• Virginia 

“At carafem, we strive to provide care that is respectful of and responsive to the individual needs of our clients,” says Melissa Grant, carafem’s Chief Operations Officer. “We are actively working to provide telehealth abortion care in as many locations as possible, and hope by doing so, we are able to better put high quality care within reach of those living in rural communities or who face barriers to visiting a clinic in person.”

About the Abortion Pill

The abortion pill is a combination of what is usually two kinds of pills (mifepristone and misoprostol) that are taken in sequence. In the U.S. these are most often used before 11 weeks of pregnancy. These pills are not available through pharmacies or at most regular doctor’s offices. carafem staff has specific training to help someone through this process and have been providing abortion pill care via secure video consultation and discreet mailing for over two years.

Expanding Abortion Access

Now, a person who seeks an abortion in Massachusetts, Nevada, or Vermont can meet with a physician online and receive abortion pills delivered discreetly with personalized medical support within 1-3 business days of their video visit or Immediate Evaluation. They will receive 24/7 personalized support from carafem from the initial video visit to their final follow up visit — confirming they are no longer pregnant. The cost for at-home abortion pills with carafem is on a sliding scale based on financial eligibility, from $0-249.

To access care in any of the states we serve, click here to get started.

When the news broke about the Supreme Court refusing to block a Texas law banning abortion care at six weeks gestational age, all of us at carafem were heartbroken. First and foremost, our hearts go out to the abortion providers in Texas and the millions of people who can get pregnant and will no longer have an accessible abortion option in this state.

Within days of the news breaking, we began hearing from people in Texas even though our closest centers are in Tennessee and Georgia. Our call volume increased about 20% as we heard from people panicking about how and where they may be able to get care and how much it would cost.

While we all grapple with what this means for people in Texas and possibly other states to follow, we wanted to take a closer look at what it’s really like to try to get an abortion in Texas right now.

Six weeks gestation translates to providing a very narrow window of two weeks after a missed period to allow a pregnant person to find an abortion in Texas or be refused service. Two weeks is before many people even realize they are pregnant, especially if they have irregular periods or are using a contraceptive method that may make their periods less predictable. It provides only 14 days in which to:

• Get a pregnancy test
• Find a clinic that will do an abortion
• Tell any support person they want to involve
• Raise about $500
• Take time off work or arrange child care
• Find a ride to one of the few clinics that have open appointments

Then, before an abortion, the client must endure a vaginal ultrasound to make very certain a physician can see no firing of the embryonic “pacemaker” cells that could someday develop into a fetal heart. If this is identified, the client must be turned away.

It seems to us that it’s the politicians in Texas who have no hearts. Don’t mess with abortion access.

While carafem does not have a health center in Texas and we’re unable to expand telehealth abortion care to this challenging state, we are working to expand telehealth abortion care to neighboring states so that people who have to travel out of state for an abortion can obtain abortion pills faster and with better medical support. Read more here about how to access telehealth abortion care from a state with high restrictions.

As you are likely aware, Wednesday marked the start of a dangerous and restrictive new abortion ban in the state of Texas. SB 8 is a Texas law banning abortion after six weeks of pregnancy — before most people even know they are pregnant. This law then goes one step further to allow anyone — an angry partner, a neighbor, or a stranger in another state to sue a person or organization that provides or helps someone obtain an abortion in Texas after six weeks. For every defendant they bring to court, an anti-abortion extremist can collect $10,000.

For decades, reproductive health advocates like you and I have been fighting oppressive and unnecessary barriers to abortion care. Make no mistake, the politically motivated restriction in Texas will have the most negative impact on Black women, Latinx women, and low income people using Medicaid for insurance coverage. carafem believes everyone should get the health care they need without shame, unnecessary restrictions, or outside interference — no matter where they live.

This is exactly why we founded carafem — to provide abortion care in the most accessible way possible. We raise funds from generous foundations and individuals like you to help cover the cost of providing abortion care and we ensure clients only spend their time one-on-one with their provider — not in waiting rooms. An average visit for abortion care at carafem lasts between 30-40 minutes (not 3-4 hours). By keeping client costs low and the time needed in the center (or in a video visit) to a minimum, we’re working to provide care to anyone who wants an abortion.

We’re also leading the way for telehealth abortion care in the US, using technology to revolutionize the way abortion care is provided. As medical experts with decades of experience in abortion care, carafem is now providing telehealth abortion care in seven states and we’ve already provided care to over 2,000 people this year. We’re proud to say our clients love our care. In the coming years, we’re working to expand telehealth abortion care to all states that allow it and see this as an avenue to further reduce time and expense for people traveling out of state for abortion care.

We may see a rolling wave of need across the South as pregnant Texans travel into neighboring states, many of which already have very few abortion providers due to the many targeted regulations placed on southern states. People will count on carafem to be here. We will remain responsive to the needs of people who must travel greater distances for care. We will accommodate as many clients as we can while continuing to expand telehealth options.

Thank you to each of you as we strive to help people access safe, quality, abortion care. It will take all of us pulling together to help assure every person is able to control their bodies, lives, and futures.

carafem saw remarkable growth in 2020, with a 50% increase in clients served over the prior year. This increase came primarily from clients seeking care online through our new telemedicine platform, the expansion of our Nashville health center to include in-office abortion procedures, and increased demand in our Chicago area health center for those using Illinois Medicaid as their payment source.

All carafem centers remained open during the COVID crisis to meet client needs in the many communities we serve. carafem’s unique model of care proved to be “pandemic proof,” as we see one client at a time ensuring the safety and privacy of one-on-one time with a provider, and limited contact with other clients during visits.

Much of 2020’s growth came from our virtual visit program. We provide private, convenient online medication abortion visits with a carafem clinician to our clients at home through a secure encrypted video conferencing platform. Over 900 discrete packages of medication abortion pills were shipped to carafem clients in Illinois, Maryland, Georgia, Virginia, and the District of Columbia just last year. The majority of these clients were served in the final quarter of 2020 during which time we had streamlined our service delivery to more effectively reach more clients, particularly in rural areas across the country, than ever before. In light of our success, we plan to expand this service to as many clients as we can across the country. 

2020 also was a year where the world, including the field of reproductive health, has confronted issues of systematic racism. carafem has committed to ensuring we do not perpetuate the legacy of harm that has been part of the history of reproductive health. To that end, carafem has affirmed that Black Lives Matter and committed to fight for racial justice — we published a Black Lives Matter statement on June 5th, and convened an internal Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Advisory Team. We commit together to deep reflection and action to understand how we enact racism and to take deliberate steps to dismantle it. 

The past year has been one of innovation in the face of adversity. Next year will be focused on using our insights and technological advancements to expand virtual care to as many states as possible to reinforce our mission; increase access to compassionate and convenient reproductive healthcare. We look forward to serving many more clients in the coming year. carafem’s success would not be possible without the enthusiastic work of the carafem team, donors, and volunteers. We thank you for your support.