Pennsylvania, a state in the northeastern United States, has regulations that determine who, when, and how abortions can be performed. Despite these restrictions, it remains legal to get an abortion in Pennsylvania.
Legal Status of Pennsylvania
Abortion is legal in Pennsylvania.
In Pennsylvania, abortion is legal up to 23 weeks and 6 days from the first day of the pregnant person’s last menstrual period. However, Pennsylvania also has certain restrictions around the process, which includes a mandatory 24-hour waiting period following counseling and the requirement of parental consent for those under the age of 18.
Pennsylvania Abortion Regulations
24-hour Waiting Period
Pennsylvania mandates a 24-hour waiting period following counseling before an individual can obtain an abortion. In certain situations where the health of the pregnant person is at risk due to the pregnancy, this waiting period can be waived.
| Law | Description |
|---|---|
| 24-hour Waiting Period | Following a counseling session, a 24-hour waiting period is required before an abortion can be performed. |
Parental Consent
Minors under the age of 18 are required to obtain consent from a parent or guardian before receiving an abortion. In instances where parental or guardian consent cannot be acquired, the minor can apply for a judicial bypass, which if granted, waives the need for parental involvement.
| Law | Description |
|---|---|
| Parental Consent | Minors (under 18 years old) need parental or guardian consent. In absence of this, a judicial bypass can be sought. |
Abortion Term Limit
Abortions are prohibited after 23 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy in Pennsylvania. This gestational age is calculated from the first day of the pregnant person’s last menstrual period. There are exceptions to this rule, such as if the life of the pregnant person is in danger, or there is a serious risk to their physical health.
| Law | Description |
|---|---|
| Abortion Term Limit | Abortions are not permitted beyond 23 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy, with some exceptions. |
Abortion Providers in Pennsylvania
Despite the regulations, several providers offer abortion services in Pennsylvania.
Here are a few examples
| City | Provider | Services Available | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allentown | Planned Parenthood – Allentown Medical Center | Through 13 weeks, 6 days | (610) 439-1033 |
| Bensalem | Planned Parenthood – Bensalem Medical Center | Through 11 weeks, 0 days | (215) 638-0629 |
| Bethlehem | Allentown Women’s Center | Through 20 weeks, 4 days | (484) 821-0821 |
| Harrisburg | Planned Parenthood – Harrisburg Medical Center | Through 11 weeks, 0 days | (717) 234-2468 |
| Lancaster | Planned Parenthood – Dr. Daniel D. Wert Health Center at Lancaster | Through 11 weeks, 0 days | (717) 299-2891 |
| Norristown | Planned Parenthood – Norristown Abortion Center | Through 11 weeks, 0 days | (610) 279-6095 |
| Philadelphia | Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia – Paley Family Planning | Through 23 weeks, 6 days | (215) 420-0988 |
| Philadelphia | Jefferson Health Family Planning Services | Through 23 weeks, 6 days | (215) 298-4378 |
| Philadelphia | PEACE Family Planning | Through 23 weeks, 6 days | (215) 829-2345 |
| Philadelphia | Peace Family Planning – Washington Square | Through 23 weeks, 6 days | (800) 789-7366 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is abortion legal in Pennsylvania?
Yes, abortion is legal in Pennsylvania. However, there are restrictions on when and how it can be performed.
Up to what term can an abortion be performed in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, an abortion can be performed up to 23 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy.
What if I’m under 18 and want an abortion in Pennsylvania?
If you are under 18, you need to obtain consent from a parent or guardian. However, if this is not feasible, you can apply for a judicial bypass.
Can I get an abortion in Pennsylvania if my health is at risk?
Yes, there are exceptions to the 23-week, 6-day limit in cases where the pregnant person’s life is at risk, or their physical health is seriously compromised.
For more detailed information and guidance, please consult with healthcare professionals and legal advisors.