Can I have an abortion in Switzerland?
Yes — within the first 12 weeks on written request, after that only on medical grounds. Under the time-limit rule (StGB Art. 119), an abortion is not punishable if the woman requests it in writing within the first 12 weeks since the start of her last period and states she is in a situation of distress. It must be performed by a licensed doctor. Beforehand the doctor holds a detailed counselling conversation and provides a list of support organisations; for under-16s, a referral to a youth counselling centre is made. After 12 weeks, an abortion is only lawful on medical grounds. The cost is covered by basic health insurance. In short: yes, in the first 12 weeks — after that on medical grounds.
📋 The rules
- Not punishable within the first 12 weeks (StGB 119)
- On the woman's written request
- By a licensed doctor
- Beforehand: counselling + list of support services
- After 12 weeks: only on medical grounds
🔓 Exceptions
- Under-16s: referral to a youth counselling centre
- After 12 weeks: no fixed upper limit on medical grounds
- Cost covered by compulsory basic health insurance
⚠️ Penalties & fines
This concerns a statutory rule, not an everyday fine: an abortion outside the conditions (e.g. after 12 weeks without medical grounds, or not by a licensed doctor) remains punishable. Beware a myth: "abortion is banned in Switzerland" is false — since 2002 the time-limit rule has made it not punishable in the first 12 weeks. Tip: contact a doctor or counselling centre early, who will explain the procedure, the time limits and the support available. This is a sensitive topic — if you need support, a specialist service or doctor can help.
📎 Official sources
❓ Frequently asked
Is abortion allowed in Switzerland?
Yes, in the first 12 weeks. Since 2002 the time-limit rule has applied, under which an abortion is not punishable if the woman requests it in writing within the first twelve weeks since the start of her last period and states a situation of distress. A licensed doctor performs it.
Up to which week is it not punishable?
On the woman's written request, an abortion is not punishable within the first twelve weeks since the start of the last menstruation. After these twelve weeks, an abortion is only lawful on a medical indication, for example to avert a serious danger to the woman's health.
What happens before the procedure?
Before the abortion the doctor holds a detailed counselling conversation with the woman and gives her a list of organisations offering moral and material support. For women under sixteen, a referral to a specialised youth counselling centre is additionally required under the rules.
Who covers the cost?
The cost of an abortion is covered by the compulsory basic health insurance. It's worth clarifying the procedure early with a doctor or counselling centre, so the time limits are respected and all questions are answered in good time before any decision is made.
What applies after the 12 weeks?
After the first twelve weeks, an abortion is only lawful on a medical indication, that is when it's needed to avert serious physical harm or grave distress to the woman. The danger must be greater the further the pregnancy has advanced, confirmed by a doctor's opinion.
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