The overturn of Roe v. Wade in June 2022 triggered fear and worry about women dying due to changes in abortion access.
Despite the fears, rest assured that even states with more restrictions like Texas allow an exception for the life of the woman. If your life was ever in danger, you would have access to the medical care needed to save you.
Elective Abortion: What Is it?
An elective abortion is when a woman chooses (elects) to end her pregnancy. This isn’t a life-saving procedure due to a health condition.Â
Since elective abortions aren’t required for health purposes, women will not die if they do not have one. They would carry to term and receive any treatment related to pregnancy along the way.
When abortion is necessary to save the life of the mother, this would not be considered elective.
Indiana’s currently blocked Senate Bill 1 makes this exception, along with Indiana’s existing abortion laws.
What About Ectopic Pregnancy and Miscarriage?
After the overturn of Roe v. Wade, some claimed women wouldn’t be able to receive care for ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage. This is not the case.
Ectopic Pregnancy Treatment
An ectopic pregnancy happens when a fertilized egg attaches in an area outside of the uterus, such as in a fallopian tube. Other locations of the female body do not have the ability to support a growing pregnancy.
Therefore, as an ectopic pregnancy grows, it can threaten a woman’s life. Health professionals are able to identify an ectopic pregnancy with an ultrasound scan and ensure timely treatment.
These pregnancies are non-viable, meaning they are unable to develop to term. Ectopic pregnancy removal is not considered abortion, and treatment remains available in all states.
Miscarriage Treatment
Natural miscarriage is a common occurrence in pregnancy. The Mayo Clinic estimates roughly 10-20% of pregnancies end this way, but the number could be higher. These are pregnancies that end on their own before the 20th week of pregnancy.
Because they end without termination, they are not considered abortion. Miscarriage treatment is legal and available in all states as well.
You Can Receive Life-Saving Medical Treatment
News headlines and social media posts can create extra fear and uncertainty. Take a deep breath in and a deep breath out. If you or a loved one were ever in a life-threatening pregnancy situation, you would be able to receive the care you need.
If you are considering an elective abortion or wondering if you might be pregnant, visit us today for free and confidential services including medical-grade pregnancy testing and ultrasound.
A Hope Center does not provide or refer for abortions.