In the United States, access to abortion and reproductive rights are closely monitored, especially since the Supreme Court decision on Roe v. Wade. The legality of abortion has been left up to individual states, leading to a patchwork of laws across the country. However, with a pivotal election year approaching, the fate of abortion rights could be decided by voters in about a dozen states with constitutional amendments on the ballot.
President Biden has expressed support for legal access to abortion and has called on Congress to pass a law to protect abortion rights nationwide. In contrast, former President Trump has shifted his stance on abortion over the years, now believing the issue should be left up to the states. Despite this, a new study has found that the number of women using abortion pills to end their pregnancies without the direct involvement of a U.S.-based medical provider has risen sharply following the Supreme Court’s decision to eliminate a constitutional right to abortion.
Despite this, full access remains in place for now as it seems unlikely that the court will limit access to mifepristone – one of two drugs used in chemical abortions – which can be obtained from pharmacies without a prescription or medical consultation in some countries including Mexico and Canada. Those looking for more information about mifepristone and where to legally access it can find resources online or through organizations such as Planned Parenthood or the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). Stay informed on the latest updates regarding abortion access and reproductive rights in the United States by checking these organizations regularly or visiting news websites such as The Washington Post or CNN.
