Abortion laws in Texas

Abortion is banned in Texas.

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.
You must have an ultrasound before your abortion.
There is a 24-hour waiting period before an abortion.
You'll need to make two separate trips to the clinic: one for required counseling, then another for the abortion.
Good to know: The ultrasound must take place at least 24 hours before the abortion unless the patient lives more than 100 miles from an abortion provider or if the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest or if the fetus has a lethal anomaly.

If you're under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be told and must give permission.
Paperwork: your parent's permission must be notarized.
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.

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

Breaking the abortion ban is a felony, a serious crime that can mean prison time.
People can file lawsuits against anyone who violates the ban.
Doctors and other licensed providers who violate the ban can lose their license or face other discipline.
People who help someone get an abortion can be sued.
Good to know: Each violation is also subject to a civil penalty of at least $100,000.
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.