Abortion has been a topic of rigorous debate in the United States, and Indiana is no exception. While the law in Indiana allows abortion, there are certain restrictions and requirements. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the details of abortion laws in Indiana and introduce you to some of the providers available within the state.
Legality of Abortion in Indiana
As of now, abortion is legal in Indiana.
A law seeking to ban abortions entirely, which was enacted on September 15, 2022, is currently not in effect because it’s being challenged in courts. In the present context, Indiana permits abortion until 21 weeks, 6 days of pregnancy. The gestation period is calculated from the first day of the pregnant person’s last period.
Abortion Laws in Detail
Here are some key aspects of Indiana abortion laws:
18-hour Waiting Period
Indiana mandates a pregnant individual to consult with their abortion provider for in-person counseling and then imposes an 18-hour waiting period before the procedure can be carried out. However, this waiting period can be waived if the pregnancy endangers the individual’s health.
Parental Consent for Minors
For those under 18, consent from a parent or guardian is necessary for getting an abortion. If obtaining consent isn’t feasible, the person can seek a judicial bypass. This bypass allows waiving of the requirement for parental involvement. Help navigating this process is available through the If/When/How Judicial Bypass (JB) Helpline at 844-868-2812, or through their online request form.
Restrictions after 21 Weeks, 6 Days
Indiana bans abortions after 21 weeks, 6 days of pregnancy. However, exceptions are made to preserve the pregnant person’s life or physical health.
Abortion Providers in Indiana
A handful of in-person providers in Indiana offer abortion services. Here is a table detailing their names, locations, the gestation limit for performing abortions, and their contact information.
| City | Provider | Abortion Through | Address | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bloomington | Planned Parenthood – Bloomington Health Center | 13 weeks, 6 days | 421 S College Ave, Bloomington, IN | (317) 205-8088 |
| Indianapolis | Clinic for Women | 13 weeks, 6 days | 3607 West 16th Street, Suite B-2, Indianapolis, IN | (317) 955-2641 |
| Indianapolis | Women’s Med Indianapolis | 10 weeks, 0 days | 1201 North Arlington Avenue, Indianapolis, IN | (317) 353-9371 |
| Lafayette | Planned Parenthood – Lafayette Health Center | 9 weeks, 6 days | 964 Mezzanine Dr., Lafayette, IN | (765) 446-8078 |
| Merrillville | Planned Parenthood – Merrillville Health Center | 13 weeks, 6 days | 8645 Connecticut Street, Merrillville, IN | (317) 205-8088 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are a few commonly asked questions about Indiana’s abortion laws.
Is abortion legal in Indiana?
Yes, abortion is currently legal in Indiana.
What is the time limit for an abortion in Indiana?
The time limit for an abortion in Indiana is 21 weeks, 6 days of pregnancy.
Is parental consent required for minors seeking abortion in Indiana?
Yes, parental consent is required for individuals under the age of 18 seeking an abortion. However, a judicial bypass can be sought if obtaining parental consent is not an option.
Who can I contact if I’m a minor seeking help with the judicial bypass process?
If you’re a minor seeking help with the judicial bypass process, you can contact the If/When/How Judicial Bypass (JB) Helpline at 844-868-2812 or submit a request online.
The rules surrounding abortion are nuanced and continually evolving. If you have any further questions, please seek professional legal advice or contact an appropriate healthcare provider.