With recent updates to state laws on abortion, it’s critical to be aware of the current landscape. If you’re experiencing an unexpected pregnancy and living in Missouri, knowing the state’s abortion law (and those in neighboring states) can help you weigh options.
While the Pregnancy Help Center does not provide or refer for abortions, we’re here to help you understand your options, learn about your pregnancy, and more. You deserve all the information needed to make a decision.
Continue reading to learn about Missouri’s neighboring states and what they allow.
Abortion Laws in Neighboring States
First, it is important to know that abortion is currently legal in Missouri through fetal viability, generally described as being at 24 weeks gestation. This change went into effect in February 2025, though it came from Amendment 3, which was passed during the November 2024 election.
Before Amendment 3 passed, abortion was banned except when deemed necessary to preserve the woman’s life or health.
Now that you know Missouri’s abortion restrictions, you can review those from its main neighboring states: Arkansas, Kansas, Iowa, and Illinois.
Arkansas
Abortion is banned in Arkansas except when deemed necessary to save the woman’s life.
Kansas
Abortion in Kansas is legal through 22 weeks gestation. After that period, it can only be performed when necessary to preserve the woman’s life or health.
Iowa
In Iowa, abortion is banned after a fetal heartbeat is detected (typically around 6 weeks gestation). However, the procedure is allowed in cases of medical emergencies, with certain fetal abnormalities, and in cases of rape or incest when reported within specific timeframes.
Illinois
In Illinois, abortion is allowed at any stage of pregnancy if deemed necessary to preserve the woman’s life or health. However, if this circumstance doesn’t apply, it is legal up to viability (defined in the state as 23 weeks gestation).
In addition to knowing state abortion laws, it’s vital to confirm essential pregnancy details and learn about all your options. You can make a confident decision when you have the facts.
Unexpected Pregnancy? We Can Help.
The Pregnancy Help Center is here for you. We offer limited obstetrical ultrasounds performed by an RN and sonographer to confirm your pregnancy. With those details in hand, you can explore your options: adoption, parenting, and abortion.
We’ll help you get the answers you need. Schedule a no-cost, private appointment today.
The Pregnancy Help Center does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.