Abortion in Austria

Abortion in Austria has not been punishable by law during the first three months of pregnancy since 1 January 1975.^[1] Abortions can be performed later if there is a physical or mental health threat to the pregnant person, if there is an incurable problem with the development of the fetus, or if the patient is under the age of 14.^[2] Generally, performing or receiving an abortion is still considered a criminal offence.^[1]

There is no punishment for doctors who choose not to perform abortions based on personal or religious convictions, except if the life of the woman is at stake and a lack of abortion causes the woman's death.^[1] The 1975 law protects doctors who choose not to perform abortions.^[1] There are very few abortion clinics or hospitals with abortion capability outside major cities, making it next to impossible to have an abortion in rural areas.^[2] Abortions are not paid for by the government health system.^[2]

In 2000, the abortion rate was 1.4 abortions per 1000 women aged 15-44 years.^[3]

Abortion in Liechtenstein, which borders Austria, remains illegal and punishable by law. Some women who choose to terminate an unwanted pregnancy cross the border into Austria to undergo the procedure.^[4]