Yes, legally, you can still get an abortion in Pennsylvania even after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade on June 24, 2022.
What Did Reversing Roe v. Wade Do?
When the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, the power to set abortion laws shifted to individual states. There is no longer a guarantee of legal abortion across the nation. Every state now has unique laws, and many are working to decide what their abortion laws will be in the future.
What Are Pennsylvania’s Current Abortion Laws?
Currently, abortion is legal for up to 24 weeks of pregnancy in Pennsylvania. After 24 weeks, abortion is only allowed in cases of life and health endangerment.
There are other abortion laws as well.
In Pennsylvania, every woman who seeks an abortion must give voluntary and informed consent. Informed consent means at least 24 hours before an abortion, the physician performing the abortion or the referring physician must orally inform the woman.
The abortion doctor must tell the woman the nature of the procedure and treatment, the probable gestational age of the pregnancy (how far along she is), and the medical risks. They are also required to inform her of free and available printed materials with additional details and information on agencies that offer alternatives to abortion.
Parents or guardians must also consent if the woman seeking an abortion is a minor. Pennsylvania’s laws protect minors from coercion, as parents or guardians cannot force them to have an abortion if they don’t want one.
What to Know Before An Abortion in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, under normal circumstances, women can legally have medical or surgical abortions under 24 weeks of pregnancy. However, there are specific details women need to know before proceeding:
- The risks and side effects of the abortion procedure for medical or surgical abortion.
- How far along they are, or the pregnancy’s gestational age (This will determine procedure eligibility.)
- The pregnancy’s location (An ectopic pregnancy will require a different treatment method.)
- If the pregnancy is viable and progressing (Miscarriage may also require a different treatment).
- If they have an STI (a doctor should treat this before an abortion).
How We Can Help
At Bright Hope Pregnancy Support Centers, we can provide the information you need to know before making an abortion decision. We offer free and confidential pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, STI testing, education, and resources.
We’re here to be a trusted resource for women in Allentown, and surrounding areas! Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
