What are the abortion laws in Virginia?
Understanding abortion laws in Virginia
Navigating reproductive health care can feel overwhelming, especially as laws and regulations vary from state to state. In Virginia, abortion remains legal with certain restrictions in place. Whether you're seeking information for yourself or someone you care about, understanding the current legal landscape can support informed and confident decision-making. If you’re considering abortion, AVA Care of Harrisonburg provides ultrasound services and information on abortion at no cost to you.
Current abortion laws in Virginia
Abortion is legal in Virginia, but it is subject to some restrictions. The following policies are currently in effect:
- Abortion is prohibited in the third trimester, except when continuation of the pregnancy is likely to result in the death of the pregnant individual or substantially impair their physical or mental health, as certified by physicians.
- Parental consent and parental notice are required for minors seeking an abortion.
- State Medicaid coverage of abortion is limited and only available in specific circumstances, such as when the pregnancy endangers the life of the individual or results from rape or incest.
- Qualified health care professionals, including certain advanced practice clinicians, are permitted by state law to provide abortion care—not just physicians.
- Virginia law includes patient privacy protections for individuals seeking reproductive health services.
Miscarriage care is not the same as abortion care
It’s important to clarify that abortion laws or policies do not restrict access to medical care for miscarriage. A miscarriage, also known as spontaneous pregnancy loss, is medically and legally distinct from abortion. Miscarriage care remains fully legal and available across the state.
Unfortunately, misinformation has led some to believe that access to emergency care for miscarriage may be affected by abortion laws. This is not the case. Miscarriage can involve serious health risks, and hospitals and medical providers are both equipped and permitted to offer the necessary care. If you or someone you know is experiencing signs of a miscarriage, it’s essential to seek medical attention without delay.
Parental consent and provider guidelines
Minors seeking an abortion in Virginia must have both parental consent and parental notice. However, if you are under 18 and unsure of your next steps, know that you can still receive confidential support from AVA Care in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
We provide services such as pregnancy testing, confirmation ultrasound, and STI testing
at no cost to you. Parental consent is not required for our services. We are here to advocate for you, validate your concerns, and provide answers to your questions.
Informed consent
Understanding your rights and responsibilities under state law is a crucial part of informed consent. Whether someone chooses to carry a pregnancy to term, explore adoption, or seek an abortion, access to clear, accurate information is essential.
We offer compassionate and confidential services before abortion in Harrisonburg, Virginia. If you're considering your options, we are here to support you—no matter what you decide.
Schedule an appointment today
If you think you may be pregnant and want to understand your options, AVA Care of Harrisonburg is here to help. Our compassionate medical and patient services team is here to support you with holistic care so you can make an informed decision for your pregnancy.
Schedule your appointment
today and explore your options in a safe, nonjudgmental environment.
Abortion is a big decision to make. Whether you are considering an abortion for your pregnancy or simply want to learn more, information empowers. One key aspect often overlooked in this decision-making process is the importance of an ultrasound before having an abortion. At AVA Care, we provide pre-abortion ultrasounds at no cost to you, so you can be empowered in your pregnancy decision.
Abortion is a choice that can have a significant impact on many areas of your life. Here at AVA Care of Harrisonburg, we believe that information empowers. Understanding the types of procedures, the cost, possible risks, and potential long-term effects is important as you weigh your decision.
Have you experienced a miscarriage in Harrisonburg, Virginia? Discover the resources available in our community to support you during this difficult time. Many of these resources are offered at no cost.
Learn more about STI testing and how long you should wait to get STI testing after unprotected sex. We offer STI testing + treatment at no cost to you in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
Are you considering taking the abortion pill and wondering what will happen if you have an ectopic pregnancy? Learn more and access free services in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
Get answers to questions about common STIs (sexually transmitted infections) and STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). Schedule free testing in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
Learn more about miscarriage. Read about facts such as what it is, why it happens, what the symptoms are, and more. Get free and confidential help in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
Understand consent. Consent occurs when both individuals in a sexual relationship communicate their approval. Access free sexual health services in Harrisonburg, Virginia
The key to a healthy relationship is trust, honesty, and communication. Learn about the signs of healthy and unhealthy relationships. We offer free relationship counseling in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
Learn how to cope after an abortion and access free post-abortion care and support in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Explore post-abortion support resources and groups.
