Following the reversal of Roe v. Wade by the US Supreme Court, you may be wondering how everything affects your access to abortion in PA.
Is Abortion Still Legal In PA? Roe V. Wade Overturn Impact On PA
On June 24, 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. You may fear that you no longer have access to an abortion in the United States or, more specifically, in Pennsylvania. We are here to tell you that this is not the case in Pennsylvania.
The overturn of Roe v. Wade was met with a lot of confusion and fear. However, what happened was not the complete dismissal of abortion or an end to abortion in our country; this change transferred the legal control of abortion to the individual states.
Presently, getting an abortion in some states is legal, while it is illegal in other states.
Can you get an abortion in Pennsylvania?
The U.S. Supreme Court’s recent decision in the Dobbs case did not impact the legality of abortion in Pennsylvania. You can still receive abortion services in PA.
The overturn of Roe V. Wade does not mean there is a nationwide ban on abortion. Rather, it means that abortion policy will now be determined by individual states.
Abortions are legal in Pennsylvania.
This article will give you up-to-date information on abortion access in PA. We will continue to revisit and update this article as the federal government and the Pennsylvania government continue to update their policies on abortion.
Are You Pregnant & Seeking An Abortion In PA?
Not everyone feels overwhelming joy when they find out they are pregnant. If you’re late or the test has just turned positive, you may be feeling fear, stress, or even anger. The first question on your mind might be… “how do I get out of this?”
At Jewel Women’s Center, we provide a free consultation where we talk about your options. We also provide preabortion services including a lab-quality pregnancy test, an ultrasound, and more. Contact us to set up your free appointment.
Pennsylvania Abortion Laws
United States residents who live outside of Pennsylvania have the right to seek an abortion in our state. However, anyone under the age of 18 must have parental consent or get a court’s approval through a “judicial bypass” process.
In Pennsylvania, a woman can get an abortion up to 24 weeks of pregnancy. Patients seeking abortions in Pennsylvania must obtain informed consent at least 24 hours before the scheduled procedure. This means a doctor or qualified health provider must inform the patient of the following:
- The nature of the abortion and the risks and alternatives a reasonable patient would consider integral to the decision of whether to have the procedure.
- The probable gestational age of the fetus at the time the abortion is to be performed.
- The medical risks associated with pregnancy and childbirth.
- The fact that the health department publishes materials which describe the unborn child and abortion alternatives, and the patient is entitled to the free review of such materials, should the patient choose to do so.
- Medical assistance benefits that may be available for prenatal care, childbirth, and neonatal care, and that more information about the benefits is available.
- The father of the unborn child is liable to provide child support should the patient choose to carry the pregnancy to term, even if he offered to pay for the abortion. This information may be omitted in cases of rape.
For patients under age 18, parental consent is required in order to obtain an abortion. There are several exceptions to this regulation including if the patient has been emancipated or there is a medical emergency.
Up To How Many Weeks Pregnant Can I Get An Abortion In PA?
In the state of Pennsylvania, abortion is legal up to 24 weeks.
If you decide to pursue an abortion, you will be required to confirm the pregnancy with a medical provider. You will also be required to receive counseling that provides information on all the options available to you. Finally, you will be required to wait 24 hours before proceeding with your abortion appointment.
Will My Abortion Be Covered By Insurance in PA?
Coverage for abortion services in Pennsylvania are limited by federal and state rules and regulations. Learn more about if your PA abortion will be covered by insurance.
Learn More At Jewel Women’s Center
Jewel Women’s Center of Schuylkill Haven, Schuylkill County, provides free pregnancy tests as well as ultrasound confirmation. Staff members will walk you through the counseling required to inform you of your options.
They seek to provide a judgment-free, safe space for women to process their situation and make an informed decision. All services are provided free of charge. Simply text or call (570-990-2259 to schedule an appointment.
Abortion information in Schuyllkill County, PA
If you are considering abortion, Jewel Women’s Center – located in Schuylkill County, PA – can help get you the information and answers you need before an abortion procedure. Jewel offers no-cost, confidential appointments. Contact Jewel today for an abortion consultation. (570) 990-2259.