Abortion Information Per Country
Abortion laws and access differ around the world due to cultural, religious, and political reasons. Some countries have completely banned abortion, while others allow it, usually with certain rules based on how far along the pregnancy is.
LAWS
Abortion Laws Around the World
In the past 30 years, 60 countries have made it easier to have an abortion, allowing it within a specific time, for example within 12 or 14 weeks of pregnancy. However, 4 out of 10 women of reproductive age still live in places with strict abortion laws. In these areas, abortions might only be allowed under certain conditions, like if the woman's life is in danger or in cases of rape, or they might be completely banned (1, 2, 3). [1; 2,3]
There's still much work to do to ensure everyone has the right to make decisions about their own bodies.
ACCESS
Abortion access worldwide
Several factors can affect access to safe and timely abortion. safe2choose helps by providing the necessary information about abortion laws and access in different countries.
Resource availability
Access to abortion also depends on available resources like medicine, equipment, and trained doctors. Abortion pills like Mifepristone and Misoprostol are recognized as safe and effective and are on the World Health Organization's (WHO) essential medicines list (6, 7). However, these pills aren't available everywhere, making it harder to have a safe and affordable abortion in some places (8, 9).
Legal barriers
Some countries have rules such as mandatory waiting periods or permission from parents or spouses, which can cause delays and impact decision-making (5).
Economic and geographic challenges
Economic and geographical factors, such as high costs and needing to travel for care, can also make it challenging to have an abortion.
Cultural and religious influences
Cultural and religious beliefs and stigma around abortion can also influence access. Stigma can lead to judgment or discrimination, making it difficult for people to talk about or access abortion services. Some health-care workers may also choose not to perform abortions due to their personal beliefs (10).
REGIONS
Learn about Abortion in Your Country
Check out this detailed overview of abortion laws and access in various countries. It includes information on whether abortion is legal, the types of abortion available, and details about abortion pills, including if a prescription is needed and the cost. You will also find information on local organizations and resources for additional support, tips for avoiding scams, and how to reach out to our team for live counseling.
If your country is not listed, please visit our partner website, How to Use Abortion Pills or contact our counselors via email at info@safe2choose.org. How to Use Abortion Pills or contact our counselors via email at info@safe2choose.org.
South America
In Latin America and the Caribbean, most countries have strict abortion laws. In recent years, some countries have made changes to allow more access to abortion. This shift has been influenced by the "Green Wave" movement through which people have fought for reproductive rights. Despite these changes, solid religious and conservative beliefs still make it hard for people to have abortions in many parts of the region.
Argentina
Argentina legalized abortion on request up to 14 weeks of pregnancy in 2020 – a massive victory for the feminist and women's movement in the region.
Colombia
Colombia decriminalized abortion up to 24 weeks of pregnancy in 2022 setting an important example in the region.
Mexico
Abortion laws vary by state, with some allowing it up to 12 weeks of pregnancy. The Supreme Court decriminalized abortion in 2021, though implementation is inconsistent.
Brazil
Brazil strictly limits abortion, only permitting it in cases of rape, risk to the mother's life, or serious problems with the fetus' development.
El Salvador
This country has one of the strictest abortion laws in the world. Abortion is prohibited under all circumstances, even when the mother's life is at risk. People who have abortions and those who help them can face prison sentences.
Dominican Republic
In the Dominican Republic, abortion is highly restricted and only permitted if the mother's life is in danger. However, there have been ongoing debates and efforts to change these laws, especially in cases of rape, incest, or severe fetal problems.
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