Abortion in Benin
Benin has undergone important legislative reforms regarding abortion, positioning itself among the few African countries with relatively liberal laws. Since 2021, abortion on request is legally permitted within the first trimester [1]. However, the impact of these reforms is still unfolding, as many women face challenges in accessing services due to social and systemic barriers [2].
Is abortion legal in Benin?
Yes. Abortion is legal on request up to 12 weeks of pregnancy and allowed beyond that under certain legal exceptions. Benin’s updated law on sexual and reproductive health authorizes abortion without restriction during the first trimester for reasons including personal, social, or economic factors. After 12 weeks, abortions can be legally performed only in exceptional cases, such as to preserve the pregnant person’s life or health, in instances of rape or incest, or when severe fetal anomalies are detected. However, the absence of comprehensive implementation guidelines and ongoing societal stigma means many people still face barriers to accessing safe abortion care [2].
Abortion with pills in Benin
In-clinic abortion in Benin
Support and Resources in Benin
Who can I contact for more information about abortion in Benin?
Please contact the following organizations to access abortion services and information.
Women On Web - Benin
International Organization, Abortion support and access to pills.
Connect
Association Béninoise pour la Promotion de la Famille (ABPF)
Family Planning and Sexual and Reproductive Health Services
Hotline
+229 21 32 00 49
Connect
No local referral information is available for this profile
For further support, please contact our counseling team, they’re here to offer additional guidance. (https://safe2choose.org/es/abortion-counseling) We also recommend reaching out to local human rights organizations or feminist networks in your country or in nearby countries where abortion is legal.