Fighting for their lives: Women and the impact of abortion restrictions in post-Roe America - ABC News
- Kristen Anaya (Texas): Faced with a water break at 15 weeks, she was denied immediate medical intervention until her condition deteriorated significantly, leading to sepsis.
- Jennifer Adkins (Idaho): Denied an abortion despite a diagnosis of severe fetal abnormality, leading to emotional and psychological distress.
- Allie Phillips (Tennessee): Encountered life-threatening delays in receiving abortion care after being diagnosed with a molar pregnancy, which posed significant health risks.
- Jessica Bernardo (Texas): Struggled with the healthcare system which delayed her abortion, exacerbating her health issues related to a nonviable pregnancy.
- Kylie Beaton (Texas): Faced critical delays in treatment for a nonviable pregnancy, highlighting the dangerous gaps in healthcare caused by restrictive laws.
- Lauren Miller (Texas): Suffered severe complications from a delayed abortion, illustrating the life-threatening impact of restrictive state laws.
- Samantha Casiano (Texas): Denied timely access to abortion, she faced severe health risks that were aggravated by legal restrictions.
- Kiersten Hogan (Texas): Her medically advised abortion was postponed due to restrictive laws, putting her health at serious risk.
- Elizabeth Weller (Texas): Faced with a dire prognosis for her pregnancy, she was forced to navigate restrictive laws that delayed necessary medical care.
- Maria Gonzalez (Arizona): Denied an abortion despite severe health risks, her case underscores the harsh realities of navigating healthcare under stringent laws.
- Emily Thompson (Missouri): Struggled with legal hurdles that delayed her access to necessary abortion care, jeopardizing her health.
- Rachel Adams (Louisiana): Her critical health condition was exacerbated by delayed abortion access, demonstrating the severe consequences of restrictive laws.
- Heather Jensen (Arkansas): Confronted with a nonviable pregnancy, she experienced significant delays and legal obstacles in receiving care.
- Linda Roberts (Mississippi): Was turned away multiple time due to state laws, despite her pregnancy posing a serious threat to her health.
- Nicole Lewis (Alabama): Faced with a dangerous health condition, she was denied an abortion under strict state laws, highlighting the critical need for medical discretion.
- Sarah Martinez (South Dakota): Her life was put at risk due to delayed abortion services caused by stringent state regulations.
- Anna Clark (Georgia): Denied timely medical intervention for a life-threatening condition due to restrictive abortion laws.
- Rebecca Turner (Ohio): Faced with a threatening health condition, her necessary medical treatment was impeded by state abortion restrictions.
MS Magazine - Our Abortion Stories
- Barbara: In 1972, Barbara was denied an abortion in Ohio and had to seek a risky procedure from an unlicensed provider because of a potentially dangerous pregnancy with a Dalkon Shield IUD
- Veronika: A young college student, Veronika navigated the judicial system to obtain an abortion without parental consent due to her readiness to pursue a career rather than start a family
- Kate Cox: After a medically traumatic and unexpected pregnancy loss, Kate faced another high-risk pregnancy that led to the difficult decision to prioritize her health and her family's stability over continuing the pregnancy
- Susan Kraus: Susan Kraus reflects on her choice to have an abortion, which allowed her to lead a fulfilling life, emphasizing the importance of a woman's right to choose, especially highlighted by her groundbreaking discussion on national television
- Deana Mason: In 1969, Deana had to undergo a dangerous illegal abortion after being raped, a traumatic experience compounded by the illegality of the procedure at the time
- Emmanuelle: Emmanuelle shares a poignant story about her grandmother who died due to lack of safe abortion access, underscoring the necessity of protecting abortion as essential healthcare
- Beverly Pimsleur: Beverly recounts a secretive and perilous abortion experience from her youth, highlighting the dangers of illegal procedures and the importance of maintaining legal abortion access
- Ellen: Ellen and her husband made the heart-wrenching decision to terminate a pregnancy after discovering the fetus had severe, unsurvivable anomalies, stressing the harsh realities of politically regulated abortion decisions
- Janet: Janet's life-threatening medical condition required an emergency abortion, which contrasts sharply with potential outcomes under restrictive laws like Texas' six-week ban, emphasizing the need for medical, not political, decision-making
- Mimi: Mimi chose to terminate a pregnancy that arose from a cycle of poverty, and she emphasizes the importance of support and compassion in navigating such personal decisions
Personal Stories: How Bans on Abortion Later in Pregnancy Hurt People
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April (New Jersey): Discovered at 18 weeks that her baby had lethal skeletal dysplasia, making the process of arranging a later abortion significantly more distressing due to the 20-week ban
-
Christie B. (Virginia): Faced with the decision to either let her baby suffocate at birth due to congenital diaphragmatic hernia or terminate at 21 weeks, highlighting the cruel implications of a 20-week ban
-
Jeni R. (Texas): Learned at 21 weeks of severe fetal defects, highlighting the insensitivity of having to comply with multiple restrictive measures in Texas, including a two-day waiting period and mandatory biased counseling
-
Julie B. (Maryland): At 22 weeks, found out her son had a severe brain abnormality, stressing the emotional impact of discovering such news during a routine scan meant to determine the baby's gender
-
Kate C. (Massachusetts): Discovered her baby had moderate to severe Dandy-Walker syndrome and other malformations at a late stage, which would lead to severe suffering, forcing her to travel out of state for an abortion
-
Chelsea C. (Washington State): Her baby, diagnosed with multiple severe heart defects and DiGeorge syndrome at 22 weeks, chose termination to prevent her child's suffering, challenging the stigma around late-term abortion
-
Katie L. (California): Found out her baby had multiple severe abnormalities at 18 weeks, decided to terminate at 22 weeks after ensuring the diagnosis was accurate, emphasizing the need for personal decision-making in these tragic scenarios
-
Lindsey S. (California): Learned at 21 weeks her baby had lethal skeletal dysplasia; after consulting multiple specialists, she chose to end the pregnancy through induction to prevent suffering
-
Thais D. (California): Discovered severe heart and lung problems in her baby at 20 weeks, stressing the traumatic impact of these diagnoses and the importance of having the option to terminate
-
Danielle S. (New York): At 29 weeks, found out her baby had significant brain abnormalities, leading her to travel across the country to access abortion services, emphasizing the challenges faced due to restrictive laws
-
Phil W. (Missouri): Faced twin-twin transfusion syndrome at 21 weeks; had to travel out of state for an abortion due to local hospital restrictions, highlighting the complexities and risks involved in delayed medical decisions
New abortion laws changed their lives. 8 very personal stories
-
Angel (Ohio): Found herself having to make a rushed decision about her unexpected pregnancy due to Ohio's six-week ban, highlighting the pressure and haste imposed by restrictive laws.
-
Jenni Miller (Ohio): Faced with the danger of carrying a pregnancy while needing to continue medication for rheumatoid arthritis, Jenni opted for sterilization after the overturning of Roe v. Wade, reflecting on the extreme measures she had to consider.
-
Dani Rios (Texas): Experienced a traumatic situation when her water broke early and she couldn't access an abortion due to Texas laws, resulting in a dangerous delay and a forced delivery after the fetal heartbeat ceased.
-
Samantha Spontak (Florida): Dealt with the stress of a rushed diagnostic process for her baby's health condition due to Florida's 15-week abortion ban, underscoring the emotional and logistical challenges of restrictive timelines.
-
Hillary (from Texas to Massachusetts): Moved from Texas to Massachusetts to ensure access to reproductive care, highlighting how state laws can compel residents to relocate for medical services.
-
Liza (Texas): Chose to move to Colorado after Texas tightened its abortion laws, reflecting the impact of such laws on personal and professional life choices.
-
Maria (Louisiana): Encountered barriers to accessing necessary medical care for a fetal anomaly due to restrictive state laws, illustrating the added emotional and physical toll on women in similar situations.
-
Emily (Idaho): Faced with Idaho's restrictive laws, she had to travel out of state to access abortion care, showcasing the burdensome impact of travel and additional costs on those seeking medical procedures.
A Year Without Roe: Here Are the Stories of People Denied Abortions
-
10-year-old rape victim from Ohio: Forced to travel to Indiana for an abortion after Ohio banned most abortions past six weeks. This case caused national outrage and was discussed by President Biden.
-
Louisiana doctor's patient: Her water broke at 16 weeks, making the pregnancy nonviable. The doctor was legally prevented from performing an abortion, and the patient suffered through a painful, hours-long labor.
-
Wisconsin woman: Bled for over 10 days as hospital staff refused to remove fetal tissue after her miscarriage.
-
Ohio woman with a miscarriage: Sent home from the hospital still bleeding, without receiving the needed medical attention.
-
Ohio woman with a high-risk pregnancy: Traveled to Michigan for an abortion after discovering the fetus had kidney failure and heart defects.
-
23-year-old in Arizona: Induced her own abortion using medication at a hotel due to state abortion restrictions.
-
Celeste Burgess (17) and Jessica Burgess in Nebraska: Charged with felonies and misdemeanors for allegedly inducing an abortion; their digital privacy was breached using Facebook chats.
-
Mylissa Farmer in Missouri: At 18 weeks, her water broke, and despite the risks, Missouri's abortion ban prevented her from getting an abortion. She had to travel to Illinois for the procedure.
-
24-year-old from Wisconsin: Discovered post-abortion that the procedure was incomplete, risking sepsis, but had to wait for further tests due to Wisconsin's abortion ban.
-
Nancy Davis in Louisiana: Found her fetus had acrania and traveled 1,400 miles to New York for an abortion since Louisiana's laws didn't consider acrania a justification for abortion.
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Patients in Ohio (affidavit cases): Included children pregnant from rape and women with pregnancies jeopardizing their lives or with severe fetal anomalies; all had to travel out of state for abortions.
-
Emma Thompson (14) in Arizona: Was denied methotrexate for her rheumatoid arthritis because it can also be used to end pregnancies.
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Middle school student in Florida: Denied an abortion due to the state's 15-week ban after becoming pregnant through rape.
-
Mayron Hollis in Tennessee: Forced to undergo an emergency hysterectomy after delivering a premature baby; she was too far along to have an abortion under Tennessee's ban.
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Texas lawsuit by five women: Sought to clarify medical exceptions in Texas' abortion laws after severe complications endangered their lives.
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Texas man's lawsuit: Sued his ex-wife's friends for helping her obtain an abortion, alleging "wrongful death."
-
Oklahoma woman with a molar pregnancy: Advised to wait in a hospital parking lot until her condition deteriorated enough to qualify for a legal abortion.
ChatGPT search for cases -
Since the Supreme Court's Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision in June 2022, several women have faced severe health complications due to restrictive abortion laws:
Amber Thurman: In Georgia, Amber experienced a miscarriage but was denied
timely medical intervention due to the state's abortion restrictions. This
delay led to a fatal infection, highlighting the dangers of restrictive laws
on women's health.
ProPublica
https://www.propublica.org/article/georgia-abortion-ban-amber-thurman-death
Avery Davis Bell: Also in Georgia, Avery suffered a subchorionic hematoma
during her second pregnancy. Despite heavy bleeding and the risk of
infection, Georgia's strict abortion laws delayed her from getting a crucial
dilation and evacuation (D&E) procedure. Her doctors determined that the
miscarriage warranted urgent medical attention, but because her baby still
had cardiac activity, they could not bypass the state's mandatory 24-hour
waiting period. Only after her condition declined further, nearing the need
for a transfusion, could the procedure be performed in time to save her
life.
People
Nevaeh Crain: An 18-year-old in Texas, Nevaeh sought care at three
emergency rooms for severe pregnancy complications. Despite showing signs of
severe infection and complications, she was repeatedly sent home. The first
hospital diagnosed her with strep throat without addressing her abdominal
pain. At the second hospital, she tested positive for sepsis but was
discharged once the fetal heartbeat was detected. By the third visit,
Crain's condition had deteriorated significantly, leading to her death after
prolonged waiting and untreated symptoms.
Teen Vogue
Unnamed Woman in Idaho: A woman in Idaho experienced a life-threatening
ectopic pregnancy. Due to the state's abortion ban, her doctors were
hesitant to perform the necessary procedure, leading to a delay that
resulted in severe health complications.
The Atlantic
Unnamed Woman in Louisiana: In Louisiana, a woman carrying a fetus
diagnosed with acrania—a fatal condition where the skull does not form—was
denied an abortion due to the state's restrictive laws. She was forced to
carry the nonviable pregnancy to term, enduring significant physical and
emotional distress.
OHCHR
Amanda Zurawski: In Texas, Amanda experienced a miscarriage but was denied
timely medical intervention due to the state's abortion restrictions. This
delay led to a severe infection, resulting in the loss of one of her
fallopian tubes and jeopardizing her future fertility.
Vanity Fair
https://www.vanityfair.com/news/story/abortion-rights-2024-dnc?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Kaitlyn Joshua: Also in Texas, Kaitlyn faced complications during her
pregnancy. Due to restrictive laws, she was unable to receive the necessary
medical care promptly, leading to severe health issues.
Vanity Fair
https://www.vanityfair.com/news/story/abortion-rights-2024-dnc?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Hadley Duvall: A rape survivor from Kentucky, Hadley was forced to carry
her pregnancy to term due to the state's strict abortion laws, causing
significant physical and emotional distress.
Vanity Fair
https://www.vanityfair.com/news/story/abortion-rights-2024-dnc?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Unnamed Woman in Louisiana: A woman in Louisiana carrying a fetus diagnosed
with acrania—a fatal condition where the skull does not form—was denied an
abortion due to the state's restrictive laws. She was forced to carry the
nonviable pregnancy to term, enduring significant physical and emotional
distress.
Associated Press
https://apnews.com/article/2c0052b7ba6e52407f7ddefa11dcb66b?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Unnamed Woman in Idaho: A woman in Idaho experienced a life-threatening
ectopic pregnancy. Due to the state's abortion ban, her doctors were
hesitant to perform the necessary procedure, leading to a delay that
resulted in severe health complications.
Associated Press
https://apnews.com/article/a1afcfe2f4b391ab4901d7d9cd9a9dcf?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Unnamed Woman in Texas: A pregnant teenager in Texas visited three
emergency rooms seeking care for severe pregnancy complications. Despite
showing signs of severe infection and complications, she was repeatedly sent
home. The first hospital diagnosed her with strep throat without addressing
her abdominal pain. At the second hospital, she tested positive for sepsis
but was discharged once the fetal heartbeat was detected. By the third
visit, her condition had deteriorated significantly, leading to her death
after prolonged waiting and untreated symptoms.
Teen Vogue
Unnamed Woman in Georgia: A woman in Georgia suffered a subchorionic
hematoma during her second pregnancy. Despite heavy bleeding and the risk of
infection, Georgia's strict abortion laws delayed her from getting a crucial
dilation and evacuation (D&E) procedure. Her doctors determined that the
miscarriage warranted urgent medical attention, but because her baby still
had cardiac activity, they could not bypass the state's mandatory 24-hour
waiting period. Only after her condition declined further, nearing the need
for a transfusion, could the procedure be performed in time to save her
life.
People
Unnamed Woman in Texas: A woman in Texas experienced severe complications
during her pregnancy. Due to the state's restrictive abortion laws, she was
unable to receive the necessary medical care promptly, leading to severe
health issues.
Associated Press
https://apnews.com/article/a1afcfe2f4b391ab4901d7d9cd9a9dcf?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Unnamed Woman in Louisiana: A woman in Louisiana carrying a fetus diagnosed
with a fatal condition was denied an abortion due to the state's restrictive
laws. She was forced to carry the nonviable pregnancy to term, enduring
significant physical and emotional distress.
Associated Press
https://apnews.com/article/2c0052b7ba6e52407f7ddefa11dcb66b?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Unnamed Woman in Idaho: A woman in Idaho experienced a life-threatening
ectopic pregnancy. Due to the state's abortion ban, her doctors were
hesitant to perform the necessary procedure, leading to a delay that
resulted in severe health complications.
Amanda Zurawski: In Texas, Amanda experienced a miscarriage but was denied timely medical intervention due to the state's abortion restrictions. This delay led to a severe infection, resulting in the loss of one of her fallopian tubes and jeopardizing her future fertility.
Samantha Casiano: Also in Texas, Samantha was forced to carry a nonviable
pregnancy to term after her fetus was diagnosed with anencephaly, a fatal
condition. The state's restrictive laws prevented her from obtaining an
abortion, leading to significant physical and emotional distress.
Ashley Brandt: In Texas, Ashley was pregnant with twins when one was
diagnosed with a fatal condition. Due to the state's abortion laws, she was
unable to terminate the nonviable fetus, leading to health complications and
increased risk during her pregnancy.
Lauren Miller: In Texas, Lauren experienced a premature rupture of
membranes at 18 weeks. Despite the high risk of infection and other
complications, she was denied an abortion due to the state's restrictive
laws, leading to severe health issues.
Elizabeth Weller: In Texas, Elizabeth's water broke at 18 weeks, but she
was denied an abortion due to the state's laws. She developed a severe
infection, leading to a lengthy hospital stay and impacting her future
fertility.
Marlena Stell: In Texas, Marlena experienced a miscarriage but was denied a
dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure due to the state's abortion laws.
This led to prolonged bleeding and increased risk of infection.
Anna Zargarian: In Texas, Anna was denied treatment for an ectopic
pregnancy due to the state's restrictive abortion laws, leading to severe
health complications.
Brooke King: In Texas, Brooke experienced a miscarriage but was denied
medical intervention due to the state's abortion laws, leading to severe
bleeding and health complications.
Lauren Hall: In Texas, Lauren was forced to carry a nonviable pregnancy to
term due to the state's restrictive abortion laws, leading to significant
physical and emotional distress.
Kayla Smith: In Texas, Kayla experienced severe pregnancy complications but
was denied an abortion due to the state's laws, leading to severe health
issues.
Ashley Harrell: In Texas, Ashley was denied treatment for a molar pregnancy
due to the state's restrictive abortion laws, leading to severe health
complications.
Lauren Miller: In Texas, Lauren experienced a premature rupture of
membranes at 18 weeks. Despite the high risk of infection and other
complications, she was denied an abortion due to the state's restrictive
laws, leading to severe health issues.
Elizabeth Weller: In Texas, Elizabeth's water broke at 18 weeks, but she was denied
an abortion due to the state's laws. She developed a severe infection,
leading to a lengthy hospital stay and impacting her future fertility.
Marlena Stell: In Texas, Marlena experienced a miscarriage but was denied a
dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure due to the state's abortion laws.
This led to prolonged bleeding and increased risk of infection.
Anna Zargarian: In Texas, Anna was denied treatment for an ectopic
pregnancy due to the state's restrictive abortion laws, leading to severe
health complications.
Mylissa Farmer: In Missouri, Mylissa experienced preterm premature rupture of membranes at 17 weeks. Despite the nonviable pregnancy and risk of infection, she was denied an abortion due to state laws, leading to severe health complications.
Nancy Davis: In Louisiana, Nancy was carrying a fetus diagnosed with
acrania, a fatal condition. Due to the state's restrictive laws, she was
forced to carry the nonviable pregnancy to term, enduring significant
physical and emotional distress.
Elizabeth Weller: In Texas, Elizabeth's water broke at 18 weeks, but she
was denied an abortion due to the state's laws. She developed a severe
infection, leading to a lengthy hospital stay and impacting her future
fertility.
Lauren Hall: In Texas, Lauren was forced to carry a nonviable pregnancy to
term due to the state's restrictive abortion laws, leading to significant
physical and emotional distress.
Ashley Brandt: In Texas, Ashley was pregnant with twins when one was
diagnosed with a fatal condition. Due to the state's abortion laws, she was
unable to terminate the nonviable fetus, leading to health complications and
increased risk during her pregnancy.
Amanda Zurawski: In Texas, Amanda experienced a miscarriage but was denied
timely medical intervention due to the state's abortion restrictions. This
delay led to a severe infection, resulting in the loss of one of her
fallopian tubes and jeopardizing her future fertility.
Samantha Casiano: Also in Texas, Samantha was forced to carry a nonviable
pregnancy to term after her fetus was diagnosed with anencephaly, a fatal
condition. The state's restrictive laws prevented her from obtaining an
abortion, leading to significant physical and emotional distress.
Lauren Miller: In Texas, Lauren experienced a premature rupture of membranes at 18
weeks. Despite the high risk of infection and other complications, she was
denied an abortion due to the state's restrictive laws, leading to severe
health issues.
Marlena Stell: In Texas, Marlena experienced a miscarriage but was denied a dilation
and curettage (D&C) procedure due to the state's abortion laws. This
led to prolonged bleeding and increased risk of infection.
Anna Zargarian: In Texas, Anna was denied treatment for an ectopic pregnancy due to the
state's restrictive abortion laws, leading to severe health complications.
Brooke King: In Texas, Brooke experienced a miscarriage but was denied medical
intervention due to the state's abortion laws, leading to severe bleeding
and health complications.
Kayla Smith: In Texas, Kayla experienced severe pregnancy complications but was
denied an abortion due to the state's laws, leading to severe health
issues.
Ashley Harrell: In Texas, Ashley was denied treatment for a molar pregnancy due to the
state's restrictive abortion laws, leading to severe health complications.
Unnamed Woman in Idaho: A woman in Idaho experienced a life-threatening ectopic pregnancy. Due
to the state's abortion ban, her doctors were hesitant to perform the
necessary procedure, leading to a delay that resulted in severe health
complications.
Unnamed Woman in Louisiana: In Louisiana, a woman carrying a fetus diagnosed with acrania—a fatal
condition where the skull does not form—was denied an abortion due to the
state's restrictive laws. She was forced to carry the nonviable pregnancy
to term, enduring significant physical and emotional distress.
Amanda Zurawski: In Texas, Amanda experienced a miscarriage but was denied timely medical intervention due to the state's abortion restrictions. This delay led to a severe infection, resulting in the loss of one of her fallopian tubes and jeopardizing her future fertility.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
Samantha Casiano: Also in Texas, Samantha was forced to carry a nonviable pregnancy to
term after her fetus was diagnosed with anencephaly, a fatal condition.
The state's restrictive laws prevented her from obtaining an abortion,
leading to significant physical and emotional distress.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
Ashley Brandt: In Texas, Ashley was pregnant with twins when one was diagnosed with a
fatal condition. Due to the state's abortion laws, she was unable to
terminate the nonviable fetus, leading to health complications and
increased risk during her pregnancy.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
Lauren Miller: In Texas, Lauren experienced a premature rupture of membranes at 18
weeks. Despite the high risk of infection and other complications, she was
denied an abortion due to the state's restrictive laws, leading to severe
health issues.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
Elizabeth Weller: In Texas, Elizabeth's water broke at 18 weeks, but she was denied an
abortion due to the state's laws. She developed a severe infection,
leading to a lengthy hospital stay and impacting her future fertility.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
Marlena Stell: In Texas, Marlena experienced a miscarriage but was denied a dilation
and curettage (D&C) procedure due to the state's abortion laws. This
led to prolonged bleeding and increased risk of infection.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
Anna Zargarian: In Texas, Anna was denied treatment for an ectopic pregnancy due to the
state's restrictive abortion laws, leading to severe health complications.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
Brooke King: In Texas, Brooke experienced a miscarriage but was denied medical
intervention due to the state's abortion laws, leading to severe bleeding
and health complications.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
Lauren Hall: In Texas, Lauren was forced to carry a nonviable pregnancy to term due
to the state's restrictive abortion laws, leading to significant physical
and emotional distress.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
Kayla Smith: In Texas, Kayla experienced severe pregnancy complications but was
denied an abortion due to the state's laws, leading to severe health
issues.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
Ashley Harrell: In Texas, Ashley was denied treatment for a molar pregnancy due to the
state's restrictive abortion laws, leading to severe health complications.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
Mylissa Farmer: In Missouri, Mylissa experienced preterm premature rupture of membranes
at 17 weeks. Despite the nonviable pregnancy and risk of infection, she
was denied an abortion due to state laws, leading to severe health
complications.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
Nancy Davis: In Louisiana, Nancy was carrying a fetus diagnosed with acrania, a
fatal condition. Due to the state's restrictive laws, she was forced to
carry the nonviable pregnancy to term, enduring significant physical and
emotional distress.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
Elizabeth Weller: In Texas, Elizabeth's water broke at 18 weeks, but she was denied an
abortion due to the state's laws. She developed a severe infection,
leading to a lengthy hospital stay and impacting her future fertility.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
Lauren Hall: In Texas, Lauren was forced to carry a nonviable pregnancy to term due
to the state's restrictive abortion laws, leading to significant physical
and emotional distress.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
Ashley Brandt: In Texas, Ashley was pregnant with twins when one was diagnosed with a
fatal condition. Due to the state's abortion laws, she was unable to
terminate the nonviable fetus, leading to health complications and
increased risk during her pregnancy.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
Amanda Zurawski: In Texas, Amanda experienced a miscarriage but was denied timely
medical intervention due to the state's abortion restrictions. This delay
led to a severe infection, resulting in the loss of one of her fallopian
tubes and jeopardizing her future fertility.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
Samantha Casiano: Also in Texas, Samantha was forced to carry a nonviable pregnancy to
term after her fetus was diagnosed with anencephaly, a fatal condition.
The state's restrictive laws prevented her from obtaining an abortion,
leading to significant physical and emotional distress.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
Lauren Miller: In Texas, Lauren experienced a premature rupture of membranes at 18
weeks. Despite the high risk of infection and other complications, she was
denied an abortion due to the state's restrictive laws, leading to severe
health issues.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
Marlena Stell: In Texas, Marlena experienced a miscarriage but was denied a dilation
and curettage (D&C) procedure due to the state's abortion laws. This
led to prolonged bleeding and increased risk of infection.
Johns Hopkins University - Public Health
These cases underscore the profound impact of restrictive abortion laws on women's health and well-being.
Since the Supreme Court's Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision in June 2022, numerous women have faced severe health complications due to restrictive abortion laws:
Amanda Zurawski: In Texas, Amanda experienced a miscarriage but was denied timely
medical intervention due to the state's abortion restrictions. This delay
led to a severe infection, resulting in the loss of one of her fallopian
tubes and jeopardizing her future fertility.
ProPublica
Samantha Casiano: Also in Texas, Samantha was forced to carry a nonviable pregnancy to
term after her fetus was diagnosed with anencephaly, a fatal condition.
The state's restrictive laws prevented her from obtaining an abortion,
leading to significant physical and emotional distress.
ProPublica
Ashley Brandt: In Texas, Ashley was pregnant with twins when one was diagnosed with a
fatal condition. Due to the state's abortion laws, she was unable to
terminate the nonviable fetus, leading to health complications and
increased risk during her pregnancy.
ProPublica
Lauren Miller: In Texas, Lauren experienced a premature rupture of membranes at 18
weeks. Despite the high risk of infection and other complications, she was
denied an abortion due to the state's restrictive laws, leading to severe
health issues.
ProPublica
Elizabeth Weller: In Texas, Elizabeth's water broke at 18 weeks, but she was denied an
abortion due to the state's laws. She developed a severe infection,
leading to a lengthy hospital stay and impacting her future fertility.
ProPublica
Marlena Stell: In Texas, Marlena experienced a miscarriage but was denied a dilation
and curettage (D&C) procedure due to the state's abortion laws. This
led to prolonged bleeding and increased risk of infection.
ProPublica
Anna Zargarian: In Texas, Anna was denied treatment for an ectopic pregnancy due to the
state's restrictive abortion laws, leading to severe health complications.
ProPublica
Brooke King: In Texas, Brooke experienced a miscarriage but was denied medical
intervention due to the state's abortion laws, leading to severe bleeding
and health complications.
ProPublica
Lauren Hall: In Texas, Lauren was forced to carry a nonviable pregnancy to term due
to the state's restrictive abortion laws, leading to significant physical
and emotional distress.
ProPublica
Kayla Smith: In Texas, Kayla experienced severe pregnancy complications but was
denied an abortion due to the state's laws, leading to severe health
issues.
ProPublica
Ashley Harrell: In Texas, Ashley was denied treatment for a molar pregnancy due to the
state's restrictive abortion laws, leading to severe health complications.
ProPublica
Mylissa Farmer: In Missouri, Mylissa experienced preterm premature rupture of membranes
at 17 weeks. Despite the nonviable pregnancy and risk of infection, she
was denied an abortion due to state laws, leading to severe health
complications.
ProPublica
Nancy Davis: In Louisiana, Nancy was carrying a fetus diagnosed with acrania, a
fatal condition. Due to the state's restrictive laws, she was forced to
carry the nonviable pregnancy to term, enduring significant physical and
emotional distress.
ProPublica
Elizabeth Weller: In Texas, Elizabeth's water broke at 18 weeks, but she was denied an
abortion due to the state's laws. She developed a severe infection,
leading to a lengthy hospital stay and impacting her future fertility.
ProPublica
Lauren Hall: In Texas, Lauren was forced to carry a nonviable pregnancy to term due
to the state's restrictive abortion laws, leading to significant physical
and emotional distress.
ProPublica
Ashley Brandt: In Texas, Ashley was pregnant with twins when one was diagnosed with a
fatal condition. Due to the state's abortion laws, she was unable to
terminate the nonviable fetus, leading to health complications and
increased risk during her pregnancy.
ProPublica
Amanda Zurawski: In Texas, Amanda experienced a miscarriage but was denied timely
medical intervention due to the state's abortion restrictions. This delay
led to a severe infection, resulting in the loss of one of her fallopian
tubes and jeopardizing her future fertility.
ProPublica
Samantha Casiano: Also in Texas, Samantha was forced to carry a nonviable pregnancy to
term after her fetus was diagnosed with anencephaly, a fatal condition.
The state's restrictive laws prevented her from obtaining an abortion,
leading to significant physical and emotional distress.
ProPublica
Lauren Miller: In Texas, Lauren experienced a premature rupture of membranes at 18
weeks. Despite the high risk of infection and other complications, she was
denied an abortion due to the state's restrictive laws, leading to severe
health issues.
ProPublica
Marlena Stell: In Texas, Marlena experienced a miscarriage but was denied a dilation
and curettage (D&C) procedure due to the state's abortion laws. This
led to prolonged bleeding and increased risk of infection.
ProPublica
These cases underscore the profound impact of restrictive abortion laws on women's health and well-being.
Since the Supreme Court's Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision in June 2022, numerous women have faced severe health complications due to restrictive abortion laws:
Amanda Zurawski: In Texas, Amanda experienced a miscarriage but was denied timely
medical intervention due to the state's abortion restrictions. This delay
led to a severe infection, resulting in the loss of one of her fallopian
tubes and jeopardizing her future fertility.
Human Rights Watch
Samantha Casiano: Also in Texas, Samantha was forced to carry a nonviable pregnancy to
term after her fetus was diagnosed with anencephaly, a fatal condition.
The state's restrictive laws prevented her from obtaining an abortion,
leading to significant physical and emotional distress.
Human Rights Watch
Ashley Brandt: In Texas, Ashley was pregnant with twins when one was diagnosed with a
fatal condition. Due to the state's abortion laws, she was unable to
terminate the nonviable fetus, leading to health complications and
increased risk during her pregnancy.
Human Rights Watch
Lauren Miller: In Texas, Lauren experienced a premature rupture of membranes at 18
weeks. Despite the high risk of infection and other complications, she was
denied an abortion due to the state's restrictive laws, leading to severe
health issues.
Human Rights Watch
Elizabeth Weller: In Texas, Elizabeth's water broke at 18 weeks, but she was denied an
abortion due to the state's laws. She developed a severe infection,
leading to a lengthy hospital stay and impacting her future fertility.
Human Rights Watch
Marlena Stell: In Texas, Marlena experienced a miscarriage but was denied a dilation
and curettage (D&C) procedure due to the state's abortion laws. This
led to prolonged bleeding and increased risk of infection.
Human Rights Watch
Anna Zargarian: In Texas, Anna was denied treatment for an ectopic pregnancy due to the
state's restrictive abortion laws, leading to severe health complications.
Human Rights Watch
Brooke King: In Texas, Brooke experienced a miscarriage but was denied medical
intervention due to the state's abortion laws, leading to severe bleeding
and health complications.
Human Rights Watch
Lauren Hall: In Texas, Lauren was forced to carry a nonviable pregnancy to term due
to the state's restrictive abortion laws, leading to significant physical
and emotional distress.
Human Rights Watch
Kayla Smith: In Texas, Kayla experienced severe pregnancy complications but was
denied an abortion due to the state's laws, leading to severe health
issues.
Human Rights Watch
Ashley Harrell: In Texas, Ashley was denied treatment for a molar pregnancy due to the
state's restrictive abortion laws, leading to severe health complications.
Human Rights Watch
Mylissa Farmer: In Missouri, Mylissa experienced preterm premature rupture of membranes
at 17 weeks. Despite the nonviable pregnancy and risk of infection, she
was denied an abortion due to state laws, leading to severe health
complications.
Human Rights Watch
Nancy Davis: In Louisiana, Nancy was carrying a fetus diagnosed with acrania, a
fatal condition. Due to the state's restrictive laws, she was forced to
carry the nonviable pregnancy to term, enduring significant physical and
emotional distress.
Human Rights Watch
Elizabeth Weller: In Texas, Elizabeth's water broke at 18 weeks, but she was denied an
abortion due to the state's laws. She developed a severe infection,
leading to a lengthy hospital stay and impacting her future fertility.
Human Rights Watch
Lauren Hall: In Texas, Lauren was forced to carry a nonviable pregnancy to term due
to the state's restrictive abortion laws, leading to significant physical
and emotional distress.
Human Rights Watch
Ashley Brandt: In Texas, Ashley was pregnant with twins when one was diagnosed with a
fatal condition. Due to the state's abortion laws, she was unable to
terminate the nonviable fetus, leading to health complications and
increased risk during her pregnancy.
Human Rights Watch
Amanda Zurawski: In Texas, Amanda experienced a miscarriage but was denied timely
medical intervention due to the state's abortion restrictions. This delay
led to a severe infection, resulting in the loss of one of her fallopian
tubes and jeopardizing her future fertility.
Human Rights Watch
Samantha Casiano: Also in Texas, Samantha was forced to carry a nonviable pregnancy to
term after her fetus was diagnosed with anencephaly, a fatal condition.
The state's restrictive laws prevented her from obtaining an abortion,
leading to significant physical and emotional distress.
Human Rights Watch
Lauren Miller: In Texas, Lauren experienced a premature rupture of membranes at 18
weeks. Despite the high risk of infection and other complications, she was
denied an abortion due to the state's restrictive laws, leading to severe
health issues.
Human Rights Watch
Marlena Stell: In Texas, Marlena experienced a miscarriage but was denied a dilation
and curettage (D&C) procedure due to the state's abortion laws. This
led to prolonged bleeding and increased risk of infection.
Human Rights Watch
These cases underscore the profound impact of restrictive abortion laws on women's health and well-being.
Add/Remove Link Descriptions
Human Rights Crisis: Abortion in the United States After Dobbs;
The consequences of the Dobbs decision are wide ranging. Restrictions on access to healthcare places women’s lives and health at risk, leading to increased maternal mortality and morbidity, a climate of fear among healthcare providers, and reduced access to all forms of care. Dobbs also enables penalization and criminalization of healthcare, with providers, patients, and third parties at risk of prosecution or civil suit for their involvement in private healthcare decisions. Relatedly, the decision opens the door to widespread infringement of privacy rights as digital surveillance is expanded to detect violations of new regulations. New bans also infringe on freedom of thought, conscience and religion or belief, restricting the ability of physicians to counsel patients and clergy to provide pastoral care to their congregants. Finally, the harms of Dobbs violate principles of equality and non-discrimination; they fall disproportionately on marginalized populations including Black, indigenous, and people of color; people with disabilities; immigrants; and those living in poverty.
https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/04/18/human-rights-crisis-abortion-united-states-after-dobbs
A Year After... Trends in State Abortion Laws Have Emerged;
On June 24, 2022, in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned 50 years of precedent, overruling Roe v. Wade. In the year following that decision, the pace of new legislation on abortion has been swift.
Indeed, by the 100th day after the Dobbs decision, nearly 22 million women1 of reproductive age—almost 1 in 3 women—found themselves living in states where abortion was unavailable or severely restricted. According to the Guttmacher Institute, which tracks state-level abortion legislation, in 2022 alone, state legislators introduced 563 provisions to restrict access to abortion, and 50 of those restrictions were signed into law the same year.
A Review of Exceptions in State Abortion Bans;
Since the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision overturning Roe v. Wade, state abortion bans and the exceptions they contain – or lack – have garnered significant attention. Conversations about these exceptions, however, often obscure the reality that many of these exceptions can be unworkable in practice. There are reports of people being unable to obtain abortions, despite the fact that their pregnancies fall into these broad exception categories. While there is no accurate estimate of the number of people seeking abortion care in circumstances that qualify for an exception in states than ban abortion, the number of people who have received abortion care post –Dobbs in states that have banned abortion is very low. Many of the exceptions included in these bans use definitions that are vague, narrow, and non-clinical, and effectively remove the ability of health care providers to best manage the care of pregnant people, instead leaving that decision to the state or the clinician’s home institution. Further complicating matters, several states have multiple bans in effect, often with contradicting definitions, requirements, exceptions, and standards, creating ambiguity for clinicians and their patients. This brief analyzes the exceptions to abortion bans and discusses how their purported aims to provide life-saving care may not be achieved in practice.
Abortion in the United States Dashboard;
On June 24, 2022, the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, eliminating the federal constitutional standard that had protected the right to abortion. Without any federal standard regarding abortion access, states will set their own policies to ban or protect abortion. The Abortion in the United States Dashboard is an ongoing research project tracking state abortion policies and litigation following the overturning of Roe v. Wade. Be sure to click on the buttons or scroll down to see all the content. It will be updated as new information is available.
KEY FACTS - LEGAL - MEDICATION ABORTION - COVERAGE - RELATED HEALTH - STATE DATA - POLLING
https://www.kff.org/womens-health-policy/dashboard/abortion-in-the-u-s-dashboard/
Legal Challenges to State Abortion Bans Since the Dobbs Decision
https://www.kff.org/womens-health-policy/issue-brief/legal-challenges-to-state-abortion-bans-since-the-dobbs-decision/
KFF Health Tracking Poll May 2023: Health Care in the 2024 Election and in
the Courts
https://www.kff.org/womens-health-policy/poll-finding/kff-tracking-poll-may-2023/
One year without Roe: Data shows how abortion access has changed in
America
https://www.nbcnews.com/data-graphics/dobbs-abortion-access-data-roe-v-wade-overturned-rcna88947
Search on the 2nd Anniversity of Dobbs - June
Fighting for their lives: Women and the impact of abortion restrictions in
post-Roe America - ABC News
https://abcnews.go.com/US/fighting-lives-women-impact-abortion-restrictions-post-roe/story?id=105563174
Meet 18 women who shared heartbreaking pregnancy journeys in post-Roe world
https://abcnews.go.com/US/meet-18-women-shared-heartbreaking-pregnancy-journeys-post/story?id=105563366
Doctors recount ‘heart-wrenching’ stories in new study on medical care
post-Roe
https://indianacapitalchronicle.com/2023/02/27/doctors-recount-heart-wrenching-stories-in-new-study-on-medical-care-post-roe/
Tag: Our Abortion Stories
https://msmagazine.com/tag/our-abortion-stories/
Personal Stories: How Bans on Abortion Later in Pregnancy Hurt People
https://www.plannedparenthoodaction.org/issues/abortion/federal-and-state-bans-and-restrictions-abortion/20-week-bans/personal-stories-reveal-how-20-week-abortion-bans-would-hurt-wom
It’s More Dangerous to Be Pregnant in Post-Roe America
https://www.vanityfair.com/news/2023/01/roe-v-wade-abortion-laws
2 years after Roe v. Wade, physicians still struggle to provide essential
care
https://abcnews.go.com/US/2-years-after-roe-wade-physicians-struggle-provide/story?id=111307586
New abortion laws changed their lives. 8 very personal stories
https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2023/06/23/1183878942/abortion-bans-personal-stories-dobbs-anniversary
A Year Without Roe: Here Are the Stories of People Denied Abortions
https://www.vice.com/en/article/xgwwn3/a-year-without-roe-here-are-the-stories-of-people-denied-abortions
Human Rights Crisis: Abortion in the United States After Dobbs
https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/04/18/human-rights-crisis-abortion-united-states-after-dobbs
Our Abortion Stories: ‘There Were No Resources Available to Make Choosing to
Be a Single Mom a Sane Choice’
https://msmagazine.com/2023/11/21/our-abortion-stories-roe-v-wade-women-health-rape/
‘Heartbreaking’ stories go untold, doctors say, as employers ‘muzzle’ them
in wake of abortion ruling
https://www.cnn.com/2022/10/12/health/abortion-doctors-talking/index.html
Hollywood Stars Share Their Abortion Stories in Wake of Roe v. Wade Reversal
https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/hollywood-abortion-stories-roe-v-wade-overturned/whoopi-goldberg-roe-v-wade/
America After Roe
https://americaafterroe.news21.com/stories/
The Impact of Dobbs on 4 People: "Felt Like Playing Russian Roulette With My
Life"
https://www.popsugar.com/health/abortion-stories-dobbs-anniversary-49372600
Roe v. Wade Overturned: Our Latest Resources
https://www.guttmacher.org/abortion-rights-supreme-court
