(CNN) Louisiana Democratic Gov. John Bel Edwards signed a bill Thursday banning abortions once a heartbeat is detectable with no exceptions for rape or incest, according to his office.

Edwards, who describes himself as a "pro-life" Democrat, said in a statement Wednesday that he intended to sign the bill, stating, "I have been true to my word and my beliefs on this issue." He added that it's his "sincere belief that being pro-life means more than just being pro-birth."

"I know there are many who feel just as strongly as I do on abortion and disagree with me -- and I respect their opinions," he said Wednesday. "As I prepare to sign this bill, I call on the overwhelming bipartisan majority of legislators who voted for it to join me in continuing to build a better Louisiana that cares for the least among us and provides more opportunity for everyone."

Read More