Ohio Abortion Laws

The news around Ohio’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.

Ohio abortion laws continue to see changes, much like abortion rights throughout the country. If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy and living in Ohio, you may be thinking about terminating your pregnancy. But is that an option for you?

Facing an unplanned pregnancy is an overwhelming experience. Although you may be feeling scared and alone, know there are resources to help. We are here for you.

Read on, as we explain the latest updates to abortion laws in Ohio and the choices you have as an expectant parent. What is important to know is that abortion is legal in Ohio up until 22 weeks of pregnancy. Read on to understand more fully.

Brief History of Abortion Laws in Ohio

Ohio residents have seen many changes to abortion laws over the past few years. In October of 2019, lawmakers passed Senate Bill 23 – a trigger ban to ban that could take effect as soon as the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, which it did in June of 2022.

The trigger ban illegalized any abortions performed after six weeks of pregnancy, around the time cardiac activity is detected in a fetus. Six weeks is often before many even know they are pregnant. The ban did not consider cases of rape or incest. The only exception was a medical emergency, or an immediate threat to the life of the expectant mother.

Overview of Ohio Abortion Laws

Current Ohio Abortion Laws

Reproduction rights activists in Ohio were relieved when the six-week ban was blocked by a judge. In October 2022, he issued a preliminary restriction against the new Ohio abortion law indefinitely.

In November of 2023, Ohio voters approved a constitutional amendment to enshrine access to abortion, meaning abortion rights are protected by the Ohio constitution. This was a victory for abortion rights supporters.

Because of this amendment, abortion is legal in Ohio up until 22 weeks (about 5 months) of pregnancy.

Age Restrictions and Parental Involvement

Anyone under the age of 18 in Ohio considering abortion will need the permission of their parent(s) or a legal guardian. An exception may be made by a judge removing this requirement.

Counseling Requirements & Waiting Periods

According to Ohio abortion laws, anyone seeking an abortion must meet with a physician 24 hours before the procedure or start of abortion medication. This meeting is in a private setting and is meant to give the patient an opportunity to ask questions about the procedure.

Ultrasound Requirements

If an ultrasound is performed prior to an abortion in Ohio, the physicians must offer the patient the opportunity to view the ultrasound image of the embryo. They must also offer to share a physical picture of the ultrasound image. These offerings are also to be made at no additional cost to the patient seeking abortion care.

Regulations for Abortion Providers

There are many other regulations surrounding Ohio abortion laws to know. One example: No one may perform an abortion without the informed consent of the pregnant person.

Your Unplanned Pregnancy Options in Ohio

If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy in Ohio, you will want to know all your choices before considering your next step. You have the following options:

• Abortion (up until the 22-week mark)
• Adoption
• Parenthood

Abortion

If you are considering abortion, you may want to speak with a medical professional first. There are two types of abortions: procedural and medication. Each has its own set of side effects and risks. Speak with a doctor before determining if – and which type of – abortion is right for you.

If you decide that abortion is not right for you, there are two other choices.

Parenthood

Parenthood is a big commitment, and many expectant mothers consider this option. Before you decide on parenthood, you should consider how this choice will change your life. How will you support a growing family? How will you pursue your education and/or career goals? Do you have a network of support? Can you offer a child a stable home life? These are just a few of the factors to consider before deciding to raise a child.

Adoption

A third positive option remains: Adoption. Adoption is a very positive choice. It is very emotional. However, those who choose adoption do so in the best interest of their child. Adoption allows birth parents to give their child a better life than they can provide themselves, at the time.

If you are thinking about placing your baby for adoption in Ohio, then you are already putting your child’s needs before your own. You are thinking of the love and opportunities that your child may have with an adoptive family.

Choosing adoption brings many benefits for birth parents. In choosing adoption, you would have the power to choose the child’s adoptive parents. You could also determine the type of adoption plan you want to have – open, semi-open, or closed adoption.

Your adoption specialist can help you determine the type of plan that best meets your needs. An adoption agency can offer you comprehensive services – at no cost to you – including compassionate counseling and legal assistance. An adoption agency, such as Adoptions With Love, can offer you an adoption team that is experienced in Ohio abortion laws and can keep you informed of your rights.

Pregnant in Ohio? Get the Support You Deserve

If you would like to learn more about adoption in Ohio, contact Adoptions With Love today. We can listen to you and answer any questions you may have, free of obligation or commitment. Call us any time of day, any day of the week at 800-722-7731, text us confidentially at 617-777-0072, or contact us online.