Georgia

Abortion is generally BANNED AFTER 6 WEEKS in Georgia — often before many people know they are pregnant. This so-called “heartbeat law” detects fetal cardiac electrical activity. Narrow exceptions apply.

The gestational limit in Georgia is 6 weeks of pregnancy (measured from the last menstrual period, unless otherwise specified). Procedures must be initiated before this limit is reached.

Exceptions for life of the pregnant person, rape, incest (with official documentation), and certain lethal fetal anomalies. Physician certification required.

Georgia requires a mandatory waiting period of 24 hours between initial counseling and the procedure. A mandatory ultrasound is also required before the procedure.

Georgia requires parental consent for minors seeking an abortion. A judicial bypass option is generally available for minors who cannot involve a parent.

Medication abortion access in Georgia is restricted. Mifepristone or misoprostol may only be dispensed in a clinical setting, or may be prohibited entirely if the state's ban covers medication abortion. Telehealth abortion medication services are generally not available in states with near-total bans or early gestational limits.

The Living Infants Fairness and Equality (LIFE) Act took effect in July 2022 after Dobbs. Georgia Supreme Court upheld the law in 2023. Litigation continues over exception scope.

For the most current abortion laws in Georgia, consult the official source at https://dph.georgia.gov/. Given the rapid pace of legal changes, always verify current law with your healthcare provider or a licensed attorney before making decisions.