Yes, abortion is still legal in Pennsylvania for pregnancies up to 24 weeks, and only after in cases of life or health endangerment of the woman.
What was the result of overturning roe v. Wade?
The Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade on July 24, 2022, as a result of the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision.
Now, the fifty individual states will decide on any laws related to abortion.
Unlike other states where bans began after the decision, not much has changed in Pennsylvania. There will be an election for a new PA governor in November. This might lead to new laws depending on who is elected for office.
Pennsylvania’s Current Abortion Laws
Pennsylvania currently allows abortion up to 24 weeks. Both medication and surgical abortion procedures are available within this timeframe. After 24 weeks, abortion is no longer allowed with exceptions in cases of life or health endangerment of the woman.
Pennsylvania also has specific laws and nuances around abortion. In PA, minors must receive parental consent before an abortion. Women seeking an abortion must receive information and then have at least a 24-hour waiting period before the procedure takes place.
Considering Abortion?
If you are considering abortion, it’s critical to know all the abortion side effects and risks related to your specific procedure. It’s also a good idea to have an ultrasound performed to know how far along you are, if there’s an ectopic pregnancy, and if the pregnancy is progressing.
In addition to an ultrasound, STD testing is critical before an abortion, and also for your general health and safety. Abortion can spread an STD further into the reproductive system when the normal barrier of the cervix is disturbed. This can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can impact future fertility and reproductive health.
Schedule Your Free Appointment
We’re here to assist you and make sure you feel supported during your pregnancy.
North Care Clinic offers pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and STD testing and treatment. Schedule a free and confidential appointment today.
Legislative Data Processing Center. “Title 18.” The Official Website for the Pennsylvania General Assembly., https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/LI/consCheck.cfm?txtType=HTM&ttl=18&div=0&chpt=32
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). (n.d.). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pelvic-inflammatory-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20352594
Fetal Ultrasound. (n.d.). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/fetal-ultrasound/about/pac-20394149
