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What to expect during your virtual abortion appointment

Learn what happens during a virtual abortion appointment, how to prepare, how long it takes, and how private telehealth abortion care works with support from licensed clinicians.

Getting abortion care shouldn’t be complicated or stressful. However, for many people, finding an in-person clinic, arranging time off, or traveling long distances can make an already emotional experience even more difficult. That’s where virtual abortion care comes in.

With online clinics like Hey Jane, you can get safe abortion care without ever stepping into a waiting room. Everything from your initial consultation to receiving your medication and follow-up support happens privately, on your schedule, and from wherever you feel most comfortable.

If you’ve been thinking about virtual care but aren’t sure what to expect, here’s a breakdown of how a virtual abortion appointment works, how to prepare, and why so many people are turning to telehealth for this important step in their reproductive care.

If you’re seeking virtual abortion care, Hey Jane offers telehealth consultations with licensed clinicians and FDA-approved abortion pills by mail. You can message your care team throughout treatment, and have access to a 24/7 nursing phone line so you’re never alone. See if you're eligible here.

What is a virtual abortion clinic?

A virtual abortion clinic offers the same expert, licensed medical care you’d receive in person—but it all happens online. You’ll connect with real clinicians who can prescribe abortion pills, answer your questions, and support you throughout your treatment.

The main difference? Convenience. You don’t have to travel, take time off work, or sit in a waiting room. Instead, you can focus on what matters most—taking care of yourself.

What is a virtual abortion consultation?

Think of your virtual consultation as your first “visit” with your care team. It’s a telehealth version of a clinic appointment, where you’ll share your health information, ask questions, and make sure this type of care is safe for you. Instead of meeting a provider in-person, you'll connect with them through your phone—either by secure chat, phone, or video call.

This step is required before getting medication—it helps your clinician tailor treatment to your needs. But it’s also just a chance to connect. Many patients say it’s reassuring to know that someone’s there to guide them through each step.

What types of virtual consultations does Hey Jane offer?

Everyone’s comfort level is different, so Hey Jane offers a few ways to connect:

  • Messaging: Most people choose this option. You can message through a secure patient portal at your own pace. It’s private, flexible, and fits easily into your day. Your Provider will review your medical history that you’ll submit via our online portal. They’ll message you there to let you know if they have questions or if your treatment is on the way.
  • Phone: Prefer to talk things out? You can have a consultation over the phone—no camera needed.
  • Video: Some patients prefer to see their health care provider face-to-face. Video appointments may also be required for certain insurance plans or in specific states.

Most Hey Jane patients choose to consult with a provider over message. If you’d like to speak with a Hey Jane provider via phone or telephone, sign up for care via the online portal and message the Hey Jane team to let them know you’d like an appointment. Whether you prefer a visit or not,, you’ll always receive the same level of compassionate, judgment-free care.

Virtual abortion care: Consult with a provider online, get meds delivered
Woman signing up for virtual abortion care and pills by mailWoman signing up for virtual abortion care and pills by mail

How to prepare for your consultation

Here are a few tips to make sure your consultation goes smoothly:

  • Jot down questions: Anything from side effects to what recovery might feel like.
  • Have your health information handy: Be prepared to answer questions about your last period date, medications, and allergies.
  • Pick a time that works best for you: You can complete your consultation from your couch, your car, or anywhere you feel comfortable.

You don’t need to dress up, have special equipment, or download an app—just your phone, tablet, or computer and a few quiet minutes.

How long is a virtual abortion appointment?

Most virtual abortion appointments are very quick—typically just 5 to 15 minutes, depending on your communication style and the type of appointment.

Appointment type Average duration
Messaging 5 to 10 minutes (over the course of your chat)
Phone Around 10 to 15 minutes
Video Around 10 to 15 minutes

If you require translation services, your appointment may take a little longer than average, but it should still be under an hour. 

After your consultation, your care team will review your information and, if you’re eligible, your medication will be shipped discreetly to your chosen address.

Why people choose virtual abortion care

Virtual abortion care offers flexibility and privacy that traditional clinics can’t always provide. Many Hey Jane patients say they chose this option because:

  • There’s no travel or waiting rooms—you can manage everything from home.
  • Hey Jane responds within one business day, so you can get care quickly.
  • Shipping is discreet—packages are unmarked and private.
  • You have ongoing access to your care team through secure messaging for follow-ups or questions.

Here’s what patients have to say about their care at Hey Jane:

“Hey Jane was fast and discreet. I felt very safe with all of the information I was given and with the team on standby if I needed it. I'm glad things like this exist so I can get the care that I needed.”

“Hey Jane answered all of my questions and provided great support throughout the whole process. I felt very comfortable and secure completing the steps in my own home with the reassurance from their team.”

“My experience was excellent! The process was easy, smooth, and I felt just as cared for as if I had been in the office. Easy access to support and felt truly cared about with follow-ups and reminders every step of the way! The steps are easy to follow, with pictures to clearly illustrate how to take the medication and answer all of my questions in a timely manner. It was convenient, professional, and compassionate care from the comfort of my home. I’d absolutely recommend their services—10/10.”

FAQs about virtual abortion consultations

Do I need a video appointment?

No. Most Hey Jane patients complete their consultation fully through secure messaging. It’s just as safe and effective, and you’ll still get personalized care from licensed clinicians.

What if I’m not in an eligible state?

You’ll need to be physically located in one of Hey Jane’s eligible states when you sign up for care and start treatment, but you don’t have to live there permanently. For example, if you’re visiting friends or traveling, you can still receive care while in that state. If you need help planning logistics, you can let our team know on your patient portal, request a phone appointment to discuss details, or contact the National Abortion Federation for help finding options for your care.

Is it safe to do this online?

Yes. Multiple studies have shown that telehealth medication abortions are as safe and effective as in-person care when provided by licensed clinicians. Your Hey Jane care team follows strict medical guidelines to ensure your safety.

How private is it?

Very. Only you and your Hey Jane care team can access your medical information. Packages are shipped in unmarked, confidential packaging, and all communication happens through secure, encrypted platforms.

Consult with a provider over chat, phone, or video call
Hand holding a phone for a video call with a doctor in scrubsHand holding a phone for a video call with a doctor in scrubs

Written by

Taneia Surles, MPH

Taneia Surles, MPH, is a freelance writer, editor, and public health professional specializing in sexual health and wellness. She has bylines in Health, Healthline, mindbodygreen, and Well + Good.

Written by

Sally Borges, RN BSN

Sally Borges (she/her) is a registered nurse and writer with over a decade of experience serving abortion and reproductive healthcare patients. An ardent believer in shared clinical decision making, she gets a thrill when providing accurate, up-to-date education to anyone who’ll listen and seizes every opportunity to break sexual health stigma. Sally is a book lover, a creative lady with a penchant for music and visual arts, and, most importantly, a mother of four incredible people.

Published on:
February 10, 2026
Last updated:
February 10, 2026

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