The Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade on June 24, 2022. The Justices decided the U.S. Constitution didn’t confer a right to abortion, and reversed the original Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion across the nation.
What is fact and what is fiction? What does this mean for women in Pennsylvania?
Facts After the Overturn of Roe v. Wade
Fact #1. States Now Decide Abortion Laws.
The overturn of Roe v. Wade has resulted in states now having the power to decide abortion laws through the legislative process. It did not result in banning abortion nationwide.
Pennsylvania’s abortion laws did not change after the overturn of Roe v. Wade. Abortion is legal up to the 23rd week of pregnancy, and after in cases of life endangerment.
These laws could change in the future depending on any new legislation.
Fact #2. Women Can Still Receive Life-Saving Treatments.
If you’re nervous about your health and safety during pregnancy, know that Pennsylvania does include an exception for the life of the woman.
Additionally, the overturn of Roe v. Wade does not prevent ectopic pregnancy treatments at any time in pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy is when a fertilized egg attaches outside the uterus. These are considered non-viable pregnancies (unable to survive), and removal is not considered abortion.
The same goes for miscarriage treatment. If a woman has experienced a miscarriage, any medical intervention is not considered an abortion because the pregnancy has already ended.
Fact #3. There Are Other State-Specific Abortion Laws.
Every state includes specific laws regarding abortion. In Pennsylvania, there is an informed consent law. This means a physician must provide accurate information regarding the nature of the abortion procedure, the risks, the alternatives, and other items outlined in state law. After, there is a 24-hour waiting period to give the woman time to consider the information.
There is also a law that requires minors to receive parental consent or receive a court’s approval before receiving an abortion.
Find Out How Far Along You Are
While we do not refer or perform abortions, we can help you confirm your pregnancy and find out how far along you are. We do this by offering free and confidential pregnancy testing and an ultrasound. We can also provide STI testing and treatment referrals.
Schedule a no-cost appointment today!
