2022 was a year of change, with the overturning of Roe v. Wade on June 24. How are women’s rights affected by this ruling from the Supreme Court?
The ruling declared that the legalization of abortion is now left up to the individual states. Since the court decision, many states have placed bans and restrictions on abortion.
In Iowa, there is a ban on abortion after six weeks. But it is not currently enforced as an Iowa court judge has blocked it since 2019. Here is a map with details for each state’s current abortion laws.
With abortion laws moving to the states, women can effect change within their respective states by voting in state-elected officials that share our viewpoints on abortion.
Are the Health and Safety of Women Affected?
Many have wondered how state abortion bans may affect the health and safety of women. All states, regardless of abortion bans, must provide emergency life-saving treatment to all, including pregnant women.
This letter from the Secretary of Health and Human Services reaffirms the provision of emergency life-saving medical treatment to all, regardless of a state’s current abortion law.
Are Treatments for Ectopic Pregnancies and Miscarriages Affected by Abortion Bans?
States do not consider miscarriages and ectopic pregnancies abortions. However, they may require additional medical treatment.
A miscarriage is when a pregnancy is not developing as it should and ends naturally. Sometimes a woman may require treatment to ensure the pregnancy has ultimately passed through the body.
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the embryo grows outside the uterus. An embryo growing outside the uterus cannot survive, and a healthcare provider must remove it to protect the woman from life-threatening health complications.
Next Steps?
Contact us for a free and confidential appointment if you have questions or think you may be pregnant. It’s essential to verify your pregnancy with a lab-quality pregnancy test and limited ultrasound to ensure your pregnancy is healthy and help you understand all your options. You are not alone.
