Is Abortion Still Legal in Virginia?
When the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade this year, many people wanted to know how this changed abortion in their city and state. Does this mean abortion is now illegal across the nation?
There is a lot of misinformation online, so keep reading to understand how this impacts you here in Virginia.
What happened when Roe v. Wade Was Overturned?
Roe v. Wade originally established that abortion was a constitutional right and was legal across the whole country. Now that the Supreme Court overturned it, abortion is no longer a federally granted right. This means that each state now decides through laws whether or not abortion is still legal there. The abortion restrictions are now dependent on your state laws.
Is Abortion Legal in Virginia?
Yes, abortion is still legal in Virginia right now. Many states had what were called “trigger laws”' which meant they had laws prepared to put in effect in case the Supreme Court outlawed abortion. Virginia did not have a trigger law, so abortion is still legal here. Basically, elective abortion access in Virginia is the same as it was before the Supreme Court ruling.
What types of abortion are available in VA?
The abortion pill is still available and approved up to 10 weeks of pregnancy by the FDA. It causes heavy bleeding and abdominal cramping. There are certain situations when you should not take the abortion pill.
Surgical abortion is legal in VA through the second trimester, but after 12 weeks, it must be performed in a hospital.
In the third trimester, abortion is only legal in Virginia if the mother’s life is in danger. Remember, the third trimester means your pregnancy is 27-40 weeks along. Many premature babies are born in this trimester and can live with medical help in the hospital.
At Nova Pregnancy Help Centers, we provide free pregnancy services and also a confidential, safe space to vent and talk. We can give you information, a free ultrasound and STI testing so you can make your best decision and take care of your health.
Unplanned pregnancies still happen, and women still need resources and support. That's why we're here. If you have questions about pregnancy, need help or want to discuss your options, contact us to make an appointment. We care for you!