Abortion Law in Thailand

Criminal Code Sections 301–305 (Amendment No. 28, B.E. 2564 / 2021)

Thailand's 2021 amendment significantly expanded legal access to abortion. The law now permits terminations under clearly defined conditions, always performed by a licensed physician.

Rights by Gestational Age

First Trimester (Weeks 1–12)Freely Permitted1–12 Weeks
  • Women may terminate a pregnancy without legal restriction
  • Must be performed by a licensed medical professional
  • No specific reason needs to be provided
Second Trimester (Weeks 12–20)Conditional12–20 Weeks
  • Permitted after options counseling has taken place
  • Requires diagnosis by a licensed physician
  • Must comply with Ministry of Public Health regulations
  • Must be performed at an accredited facility
Special Cases (Over 20 Weeks)Special Cases OnlyOver 20 Weeks
  • Serious risk to physical or mental health
  • Severe fetal abnormality or illness
  • Pregnancy resulting from a sexual offence
  • Requires medical board review

Penalties for Illegal Abortion

Unlicensed practitioner
Up to 5 years imprisonment or fine up to 100,000 THB, or both
Person providing unlawful assistance
Up to 3 years imprisonment, fine, or both
Woman self-terminating after 12 weeks
Subject to penalty unless qualifying conditions are met
📌 Important Note

Women who terminate a pregnancy within 12 weeks are not criminally liable. However, the provider must be a licensed physician following prescribed protocols.

📚 Sources
  • Criminal Code Sections 301–305
  • Ministry of Public Health – anamai.moph.go.th
  • Criminal Code Amendment Act No. 28, B.E. 2564 (2021)