Abortion laws in Alabama

Abortion is banned in Alabama.

Data last updated November 4, 2025.

How far into pregnancy

Abortion is banned at every stage of pregnancy.
Exceptions: to save your life; to protect your physical health (not mental health).
A procedure called intact dilation and extraction (D&X) is banned.
A procedure called dilation and evacuation (D&E) is banned.

These rules apply to abortions allowed under the exceptions.
You must be given state-required information (counseling) before your abortion.
The counseling requirement can be skipped: in cases of ectopic pregnancy or severe fetal impairment.
You must have an ultrasound before your abortion.
There is a 48-hour waiting period before an abortion.
Good to know: 48 hours after the provider receives signed consent forms by mail if counseling does not occur in person.

If you're under 18, a parent or legal guardian must give permission.
Paperwork: your parent or guardian must show a government-issued ID; proof that the adult is your parent or guardian, such as a birth certificate; you must show ID.
If you can't involve a parent, you can ask a judge for permission instead. This is called a judicial bypass, and free legal help is available.
Good to know: Alabama requires a birth certificate to prove parental relationship.

Medicaid (public health insurance) pays for abortion only in the limited cases federal law requires.
Plans bought on the ACA marketplace can cover abortion only when your life is in danger or the pregnancy is from rape or incest.

Breaking the abortion ban is a felony, a serious crime that can mean prison time.
For advice about your own situation, the Repro Legal Helpline offers free, confidential legal help.

This is a summary of state law, not legal advice. Laws change, and an update to this data can also be a correction.