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What are the Abortion Laws
in Virgina? Be Informed

Abortion laws are frequently subject to change with legislation evolving over time due to shifts in political leadership, public opinion, and legal challenges. These laws can vary significantly from state to state, and even within a single state.

They may be revised or updated regularly. As a result, it can be difficult to keep track of the current legal landscape surrounding abortion, making it important for individuals to stay informed about the most recent regulations and rulings.

Following, we’ll discuss the latest abortion laws in Virginia.

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First, Abortion is Legal in Virginia

Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters, each lasting 13 to 14 weeks. In Virginia, abortion is legal up to 26 weeks and 6 days, just before the start of the third trimester. At 23 weeks, the baby is considered viable, meaning that if the baby were born at this
gestation, it would have a very good chance of survival with medical support. In the state of Virginia, abortion is only legal in the third trimester in cases of severe fetal abnormalities or threats to the mother’s health.

What About the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill, also known as medication or chemical abortion, is a non-surgical method used to terminate a pregnancy. It involves two medications: the first medication blocks the hormone progesterone which is needed for the fetus to live, and the second medication causes the uterus to contract and expel the fetus and the contents of the
uterus. This abortion method is typically used during the early stages of pregnancy up to
10 weeks gestation.


Although Virginia allows abortions up to 26 weeks, 6 days, the abortion pill is only FDA approved for use up to 10 weeks. Some abortion clinics will prescribe the abortion pill for 11 or 12 weeks but will need to double the dose of the second
medication. The abortion pill’s efficacy decreases with advancing gestational age.
That’s why the FDA has approved its use up to 10 weeks. If the abortion pill does not
work completely, a D&C (surgical procedure) will need to be performed to complete the abortion.

After 10 weeks, the other abortion procedures include suction/aspiration
abortion or D&C (up to 14 weeks), Dilatation & Evacuation (up to 15 weeks), and Dilatation & Evacuation after Viability or Labor Induction (23 weeks and up). All of these procedures are much more invasive than the pill and come with them varying degrees of risk and side effects.

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Getting Parental Permission

In Virginia, individuals under the age of 18 who are considering an abortion are
generally required to obtain consent from at least one parent or legal guardian. This is
part of the state’s parental notification law which aims to involve parents in the decision-
making process. However, for minors who are unable or unwilling to involve a parent or
guardian, there is an alternative option known as a judicial bypass.


A judicial bypass allows a minor to seek approval for an abortion directly from a court,
bypassing the parental consent requirement. To obtain a judicial bypass, the minor must
demonstrate to a judge that they are mature enough to make the decision on their own
or that involving a parent would not be in their best interest. The judicial process is
confidential, and if granted, the minor can proceed with the abortion without parental
involvement.

Waiting Period

In many states across the U.S., a waiting period is required before a woman can proceed with an abortion. This means that after an initial consultation with a doctor, where the individual is informed about the procedure, risks, and alternatives, they must wait a specified amount of time—typically 24 to 72 hours—before actually undergoing the abortion. The waiting period is intended to ensure that the person has had sufficient time to consider their decision and to reflect on the information provided.

Virginia does not have a mandatory waiting period for abortion. Once a person has consulted with a healthcare provider, they can move forward with the procedure without having to wait additional days.

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If you live in Manassas, Virginia and are considering an abortion, we want you to know that you don’t have to navigate this decision alone. At First Care Women’s Health, we are dedicated to providing you with compassionate, non-judgmental care throughout the entire process. From the moment you contact us, you’ll be met with support, respect, and understanding.

Our team is committed to ensuring that you have the information and guidance you need to make the best decision for your health and future. At First Care, you come first, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Whether you have questions, need counseling, or require medical services, we’re here to provide a safe and welcoming environment for your care.

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