Abortion Bans Are Changing Pregnancy Care
Since the Dobbs decision overturned Roe v. Wade, states across the country have enacted abortion bans and restrictions. These measures have had a profound impact on pregnancy care, leading to:
Unnecessary C-Sections:
C-sections are major surgeries that should only be used when necessary. However, in some states, doctors are performing c-sections on women who are not in active labor in order to avoid potential legal consequences for providing an abortion. This practice is unethical and puts women’s health at risk.
Delayed Miscarriage Care:
Miscarriage management often involves similar procedures to abortion. In states with abortion bans, doctors may hesitate to provide timely treatment for miscarriages, causing physical and emotional distress for the patient and potentially leading to complications.
Increased and/or Limited Prenatal Testing:
Pregnant women are increasingly seeking prenatal testing to identify potential abnormalities. However, abortion bans have reduced the time in which a pregnancy can legally be terminated, leading to earlier ultrasounds and testing that may not provide accurate results. Additionally, some doctors are discouraged from offering prenatal tests due to fear of being seen as performing an abortion.
Restricted Treatment for Life-Threatening Pregnancies:
Ectopic pregnancy is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt treatment. However, in states with abortion bans, doctors may be hesitant to provide treatment for ectopic pregnancies due to fear of legal repercussions. This can lead to delays in treatment and potentially fatal consequences.
Increased Cost of Care:
Abortion bans are expensive. With more complex procedures to work around bans, and potential legal battles, the overall cost of pregnancy care could rise. This could disproportionately impact low-income women, creating further barriers to accessing safe healthcare.
These changes to pregnancy care have significant implications for women’s health and well-being. Abortion bans and restrictions are a violation of women’s human rights and must be reversed.
