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The news around Louisiana’s abortion laws, and abortion laws across the United States, is frequently evolving. If you have any questions about the latest abortion law information, please do not hesitate to call Adoptions With Love.
Louisiana abortion laws are among the strictest in the country. The procedure is completely banned in the state, with very limited exceptions. If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy and living in Louisiana, you may be thinking about your rights. You may wonder if abortion is an option. If you want to have a say in the law, you can register to vote in Louisiana today.
Facing an unplanned pregnancy can be an overwhelming experience. Right now, you may be feeling anxious, stressed, and alone, but it is important to know there are resources available.
In this guide, we will break down the latest abortion laws in Louisiana, what it means for you, and what your choices are as an expectant parent. You may still be able to get a legal abortion if that is what you choose or need. Read on to understand more fully.
Brief History of Abortion Laws in Louisiana
Long before Roe v. Wade was overturned, Louisiana was one of the first states prepared to ban abortion. In 2006, Louisiana passed a trigger ban, which would make all abortions in the state illegal should Roe v. Wade ever be dismantled. This trigger ban made no exceptions for cases of rape or incest.
In 2019, Louisiana passed a bill to restrict abortions to the moment a heartbeat is detected in gestation – as early as six weeks of pregnancy, a time when many do not yet know they are pregnant. The law went into effect in the summer of 2022, shortly after Roe v. Wade was overturned.
In May of 2024, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry signed first-of-its-kind legislation, classifying two abortion-inducing medications as “controlled and dangerous” substances. This law was expected to take effect on Oct. 1, 2024.
Overview of Louisiana Abortion Laws
According to the abortion laws in Louisiana, termination is illegal after six weeks of pregnancy, with no exception for rape or incest. Most birth mothers are unaware of their pregnancy until after the six-week mark. Doctors convicted of providing abortions face 10–15-year prison sentences.
Louisiana’s near-total abortion ban allows termination in the following circumstances:
- To save the life of the pregnant person or prevent serious risk to their physical health
- If the fetus is not expected to make it to term
- Ectopic pregnancy
- To remove the remains of a miscarriage
According to an NPR report, the changes to Louisiana abortion laws are having a negative impact on prenatal care in the state. This is not something new. Limits to abortion care have been changing women’s healthcare across the country for the past several years.
If you are living in Louisiana and facing an unplanned pregnancy, the recent changes to abortion laws can be disheartening. The good news: You still have options.
Your Pregnancy Options in Louisiana
As you face this unplanned pregnancy in Louisiana, you will want to have all the information about your choices before making an educated, mindful decision. You can choose between the following options:
- Abortion (if you travel out of state)
- Adoption
- Parenthood
Abortion
If you are experiencing a medical emergency or your child is not expected to survive the pregnancy, it is critical to see a doctor immediately. In these limited and extreme cases, you may legally have an abortion in Louisiana.
If you are experiencing a healthy pregnancy, but you do not wish to carry to term, you may still be able to get a safe and legal abortion. Louisiana birth mothers in this case will need to travel to another state. The closest state that allows abortions (up until week 22 of pregnancy) is Kansas. Traveling to another state for an abortion is costly and requires time out of work. If you cannot afford this expense, there are resources available to help you:
If you decide that abortion is not for you, there are two additional choices.
Parenthood
Many birth mothers consider parenthood in pregnancy. Parenthood is a life-long commitment. While it can be incredibly rewarding, it can also be a stressful and challenging journey if you are not ready. Think about this choice and how it will impact your life, asking yourself practical questions like:
- How will I support my growing family?
- Who will be in my network for support?
- How can I continue to pursue my goals while raising a child?
- What will my child’s life be like if I am the parent?
These are just a few examples of the considerations to make before commitment to parenthood.
Adoption
Adoption is never an easy decision, but it is a positive choice for anyone who is not able to – or ready – to raise a child. Choosing adoption comes from a place of thoughtfulness, devotion, and deep love. Making the brave but difficult decision to place your child for adoption ensures that your child grows up with a better life than the one you may be able to provide at this time.
As you consider adoption, envision your child living with an adoptive family. This life is likely to provide your child with a safe, stable, and healthy home that is full of love and opportunity.
There are many benefits for birth parents who choose adoption. Adoptions With Love has been helping expectant/birth mothers in Louisiana for over 38 years. At a Louisiana adoption agency expectant/birth parents can choose their child’s adoptive family. You can also choose the exact type of adoption plan that meets your needs and makes you feel comfortable with your decision. You may choose between:
The best adoption agencies in Louisiana will walk you through the adoption process and help you custom build an adoption plan. This professional will also offer you supportive services – at no cost to you – including financial assistance, counseling, and legal support. A Louisiana adoption agency will provide you with an experienced team that is experienced in Louisiana abortion laws and will help you understand your rights.
Pregnant in Louisiana? Get the Support You Deserve
If you would like to learn more about adoption in Louisiana, contact Adoptions With Love today. We can listen to you and answer any questions you may have, free of obligation or commitment. Call us 24/7 at 800-722-7731, text us confidentially at 617-777-0072, or contact us online.