In the United States, the right to access abortion services is protected by federal law. However, individual states like Pennsylvania have the ability to place certain restrictions on the procedure. In this article, we will explore Pennsylvania’s abortion laws, the services available in the state, and some frequently asked questions.
Pennsylvania Abortion Laws
Abortion is legal in Pennsylvania,
but there are several restrictions and requirements. Here are the key points:
24-Hour Waiting Period
After receiving counseling from a healthcare provider, the individual must wait for 24 hours before they can have an abortion. This requirement can be waived if the pregnancy poses a risk to the individual’s health.
Parental Consent Required for Minors
If the person seeking an abortion is under the age of 18, they must obtain permission from a parent or guardian. If this is not feasible, the individual can seek a judicial bypass to waive this requirement.
Abortion Banned After 23 Weeks, 6 Days
Pennsylvania law prohibits abortion after 23 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy, with exceptions to save the life of the person or to prevent a serious risk to their physical health.
Abortion Services in Pennsylvania
Several providers in Pennsylvania offer both in-person and virtual abortion services. Here are some of them:
Virtual Providers
| Provider | Services | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Abortion on Demand | Telehealth abortion pill visit, Abortion pill mail delivery (up to 9 weeks) | abortionondemand.org |
| Planned Parenthood Keystone – Telehealth | Telehealth abortion pill visit, Abortion pill mail delivery (up to 11 weeks) | plannedparenthood.org |
In-Person Providers
In-person abortion services are also available throughout Pennsylvania. Some of the providers include Planned Parenthood locations in Allentown, Bensalem, Harrisburg, Lancaster, and Norristown, as well as other health centers in Bethlehem and Philadelphia.
| City | Provider | Services | Address | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allentown | Planned Parenthood – Allentown Medical Center | Up to 13 weeks, 6 days | 29 North Ninth Street, Allentown, PA | (610) 439-1033 |
| Bensalem | Planned Parenthood – Bensalem Medical Center | Up to 11 weeks, 0 days | 2185 Galloway Rd, Centre Plaza Shopping Center, Bensalem, PA | (215) 638-0629 |
| Bethlehem | Allentown Women’s Center | Up to 20 weeks, 4 days | 31 South Commerce Way, Suite 100, Bethlehem, PA | (484) 821-0821 |
| Harrisburg | Planned Parenthood – Harrisburg Medical Center | Up to 11 weeks, 0 days | 1514 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA | (717) 234-2468 |
| Lancaster | Planned Parenthood – Dr. Daniel D. Wert Health Center at Lancaster | Up to 11 weeks, 0 days | 902 Manor Street, Lancaster, PA | (717) 299-2891 |
| Norristown | Planned Parenthood – Norristown Abortion Center | Up to 11 weeks, 0 days | 1221 Powell Street, Norristown, PA | (610) 279-6095 |
| Philadelphia | Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia – Paley Family Planning | Up to 23 weeks, 6 days | 5501 Old York Road, Paley Building, 3rd Floor, Philadelphia, PA | (215) 420-0988 |
| Philadelphia | Jefferson Health Family Planning Services | Up to 23 weeks, 6 days | 833 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA | (215) 298-4378 |
| Philadelphia | PEACE Family Planning | Up to 23 weeks, 6 days | 3737 Market Street, |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is abortion legal in Pennsylvania?
Yes, abortion is legal in Pennsylvania, up to 23 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy, with certain restrictions.
What are the restrictions on abortion in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania law requires a 24-hour waiting period after counseling, parental consent for minors, and bans abortion after 23 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy, unless the person’s life is in danger or there is a serious risk to their physical health.
What services do virtual providers offer?
Virtual providers offer telehealth abortion pill visits and abortion pill mail delivery, allowing individuals to receive the care they need without leaving home.
Where can I find in-person abortion services in Pennsylvania?
There are numerous locations for in-person abortion services throughout the state, including multiple Planned Parenthood clinics and other health centers.
Understanding your rights and the services available to you is crucial when considering an abortion. Remember, you have options and there are resources available to help you through this process.