Family Planning & Abortion

Emergency Contraception

Did you know emergency contraception can be taken up to 120 hours after unprotected intercourse? (The sooner you take it, the better.) For more information, please call our 24/7 advice nurse at (510) 643-7197 and read our emergency contraception handout.

Abortion Services

Two abortion services are medication abortion and procedural abortion (surgical). To learn more about the differences, see this FAQ from UCSF on the two different abortion services. 

If you are undecided or would like to speak with a counselor regarding pregnancy and abortion options you can call our Social Services department at (510) 642-6074.

On-Campus Family Planning Service - Medication Abortion

Medication abortion services are available at the Tang Center for pregnancies up to 70 days (10 weeks).

If your pregnancy is <= 70 days (10 weeks) and there are no contraindications after screening, you will be eligible to make an appointment with a Tang Center nurse and clinician who will discuss the medication abortion process and what to expect both for your appointment at the Tang Center and later, when you are at home. 

Medication Abortion Steps:

  1. Fill out the required patient questionnaire in the messages section on eTang under Pregnancy Options.  Submitted questionnaires will be evaluated by the following business day. If you require immediate attention, call the advice nurse (510) 643-7197 or seek emergency medical help. 

  2. If eligible for a medication abortion you will be contacted by secure message to schedule an in-person appointment.  

  3. There are traditionally 2 appointments for medication abortion.  The first appointment is a  longer visit (approximately 1.5 hours) with laboratory testing, ultrasound and clinical examination.  The medication mifepristone is taken at the first appointment.  A second medication called misoprostol will be sent home with you to take 24-48 hours after the mifepristone dose.  The second in-person appointment is typically scheduled for 1-2 weeks after the mifepristone medication dose to determine medication abortion completion.

If you are experiencing any severe pain or bleeding, call the advice nurse (510) 643-7197 or seek immediate medical help.

Resources

Off-Campus Family Planning Services

To request insurance authorization for off-campus medication abortion or procedural (surgical) abortion services off-campus send a message to the SHIP office for authorization

Additional Resources

  • For SHIP insurance information
  • Counseling If you would like to make an appointment with a clinician or speak to a counselor, please message or call UHS, make an appointment through eTang or by calling (510) 642-2000.  
  • Medical Questions - If you need additional help please call the 24/7 Advice Nurse at (510) 643-7197 or send a secure message via eTang (1-3 Business day replies)