Abortion Laws in Virginia
Last Updated: February 3, 2025
Mandatory Counseling and Waiting Period
In Virginia, individuals seeking an abortion must receive state-mandated counseling from their provider at least 24 hours before the procedure.
- This requirement can typically be met in person or over the phone at least 24 hours before the appointment.
- If you live more than 100 miles from the nearest abortion provider, the waiting period may be waived.
Parental Consent Requirement for Minors
If you are under 18, Virginia law requires that a parent or legal guardian provide consent before you can obtain an abortion.
- If parental consent is not an option, you can seek a judicial bypass, which allows a judge to waive this requirement.
- For assistance with this process, contact the If/When/How Repro Legal Helpline at 844-868-2812 or submit a request online.
Gestational Limits
Abortion in Virginia is legal up to 26 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy. After this point, abortion is permitted only if:
- The procedure is necessary to save the pregnant person's life.
- The pregnancy poses a serious risk to the pregnant person's physical or mental health.
Out-of-State Considerations
If you are past 26 weeks and 6 days and do not qualify for an exception, you may need to travel to another state for an abortion. Keep in mind:
- Some states have mandatory waiting periods, requiring multiple appointments.
- If you are a minor, other states may also require parental consent or offer judicial bypass options.
To find an out-of-state provider, use an abortion provider search tool and contact them as soon as possible. If you need help with scheduling or other abortion-related support, contact the National Abortion Federation (NAF) Hotlineat 1-800-772-9100.