Figuring out how far along you can be to have an abortion isn’t always easy. The answer depends on a few things, such as where you live and what kind of abortion you’re considering.

In many places, you can take abortion pills early in pregnancy, usually up to 10 or 12 weeks. If you’re further along, a surgical abortion might still be an option. In some cases, it’s available up to 24 weeks or even later.
If you’re not sure what your options are, don’t worry, there’s a lot that goes into it. It’s not just about how many weeks pregnant you are.

Local laws, the method of abortion, and your personal situation all matter too.
This guide is here to help. Whether you’ve just found out you’re pregnant, your pregnancy is more advanced, or you’re having a hard time finding care, you’ll find clear and honest info here.
You have choices, and you deserve to know them.

Is There a Universal “Too Late” for an Abortion, Medically?

From a purely medical standpoint, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all week after which abortion suddenly becomes unsafe. What truly matters for safety is the method used, the health-care provider’s skill, and the setting. It is not just about the gestational age. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted this in its 2022 guidelines on abortion care.

The WHO actually advises against setting rigid legal cutoffs based on gestational age. It says that these restrictions often come from political or moral views, not strong medical evidence.
These limits can, unfortunately, cause delays in getting needed care and might increase health risks, especially for individuals already facing challenges like poverty, distance, stigma, or not having enough information (4; 5).
Abortion is safe when done correctly at any time. However, procedures later in pregnancy, especially after the first trimester, need more specialized care. This is especially true after about 20 to 24 weeks.

Common Time Frames for Abortion Methods

Different types of abortions are usually grouped according to how many weeks pregnant you are. Even though, medically, there’s some flexibility, here’s a general idea of what’s common:
An abortion with pills is usually done up to about 10 or 12 weeks. There are two main ways this can work:

In many cases, you can do a pill abortion at home or at a clinic, depending on the rules where you live. It’s a method used all over the world, and access through telehealth (via online or phone appointments) has grown a lot in recent years.

A surgical abortion is an option for the later stages of pregnancy, often up to 24 weeks in many countries, and even later in specific situations. Techniques like vacuum aspiration or dilation and evacuation (D&E) are safe and effective when performed by trained health-care professionals.

What’s available to you depends on the laws in your area, health-care providers nearby, and your own health and preferences.

How Laws Around the World Differ

Abortion laws differ depending on where you are, and sometimes they even vary within the same country.
In some places, you can choose to have an abortion up to a certain point in pregnancy. In others, it’s only allowed in special cases, like if the pregnancy is a risk to your life, there’s a serious issue with the fetus, or the pregnancy is the result of rape.

For example, in Canada, there’s no legal limit on how far along you can be, though it can get harder to find care after 20–22 weeks. In Colombia, abortion is allowed up to 24 weeks without needing a specific reason, which is a big step forward for reproductive rights. The UK allows abortion up to 24 weeks in most cases and later if there are serious health concerns for the pregnant person or fetus.

But in places like Poland, Côte d’Ivoire, and Brazil, the rules are much stricter. Abortion is usually only allowed if the pregnant person’s life is in danger or in cases of rape.

In the United States, it depends on the state. Some states allow abortion up to 24 weeks or more, while others ban it as early as 6 or 12 weeks. Laws change all the time, so it’s important to check what’s legal where you live.
If you’re looking for accurate, up-to-date information on your country’s abortion laws, you can explore this guide on abortion laws by country.

Can You Get an Abortion After 24 Weeks?

In many countries, the answer is yes, but only in certain situations. Abortion after 24 weeks (sometimes called a “later abortion”) is usually allowed when there’s a serious reason, such as:

  • the fetus has severe or life-threatening health problems;
  • the pregnant person’s life, body, or mental health is at risk;
  • the pregnancy happened because of rape or sexual abuse; or
  • the pregnancy wasn’t discovered earlier due to irregular periods, being very young, or dealing with trauma.

There’s no one-size-fits-all reason why someone might need an abortion later in pregnancy. Every case is personal, and many include emotional, social, and medical reasons. What matters most is the person’s health, well-being, and right to make their own choices.

What If You’re Past the Legal Limit in Your Country?

Discovering that you are further along in your pregnancy than you thought can be very stressful. Legal limits may also stop you from getting the care you need. But it’s important to know that you still have options.

Some people travel to other regions or countries where abortion is more accessible; some contact safe abortion networks, hotlines, or online counseling services. These resources can help you understand your options and consider the legal situation and medical care that is available.

If you’re in this situation, please know you don’t have to navigate it on your own. You can contact our friends at safe2choose who provide confidential abortion counseling to help you understand your options and protect your health.

Countries with Highly Restrictive Laws

If you live in a place where abortion is highly restricted or even criminalized, navigating your pregnancy options can feel overwhelming. You might be scared, unsure who to trust, or simply unaware of what support is available.
But you’re not alone. With the help of trained counselors from safe2choose and the support of Ally, a confidential and compassionate abortion chatbot, you can explore safe, realistic options tailored to your unique situation, even when legal barriers seem insurmountable.

This is about your life, health, and right to make informed decisions about your own body. Chat now with Ally in a safe, private, and judgment-free space.

You Are Not Alone — and You Deserve Support at Every Step

Choosing whether to have an abortion is a very personal decision, and everyone’s story is different. Some people know early, some find out later. Some have access to care without much trouble, while others face delays, judgment, or strict laws. No matter what your experience looks like, you deserve safe, respectful care.

If you’re still thinking about your options, looking for help, or feeling overwhelmed by the rules where you live, remember this:

  • You’re not alone.
  • Your choice matters.
  • You have options.

You deserve honest information, kind support, and health-care providers who respect your timing and right to choose what’s best for you. Because abortion is and always should be treated as basic health care.

Not sure about the abortion laws in your country? Check out our country profiles for reliable info on what’s allowed and how to get care.

If you or someone you care about has decided to have an abortion but feels nervous or has questions, our 24/7 chatbot, Ally, is here to help—anytime, anywhere. You can start chatting to Ally here.

We’re here for you. No matter where or how far along you are, let’s talk.

FAQs

  1. How far along is too late for an abortion? It really depends on the country and its medical regulations. In many places, abortion is accessible well into the second trimester, and sometimes later for health reasons, though often with specific legal requirements.
  2. Up to what week can I take the abortion pill? In most countries, abortion pills are offered up to around 10 or 12 weeks of pregnancy.
  3. Can I get an abortion in the second trimester? Yes, in many countries, abortion is permitted up to 24 weeks. In others, access might be more limited or require specific reasons.
  4. What if I didn’t know I was pregnant until later? This happens more often than people realize. You still have options. Please reach out to our colleagues at safe2choose.org to find out what’s available where you are.
  5. Is abortion ever allowed after 24 weeks? Yes, especially in cases where there are fetal anomalies, risks to the pregnant person’s health, or delays in accessing care. These situations are usually supported both medically and ethically.
  6. What can I do if abortion is illegal where I live? You can ask Ally, our abortion chatbot, or you can reach out to the safe2choose.org team. They can help you explore safe, informed, and compassionate support options.