9 Resources for People Considering Pregnancy Termination
If you’re experiencing pregnancy complications and considering termination, or even just want to explore your options, you might wonder where you can turn.
On June 24, 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court reversed Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1973 case that upheld the constitutional right to an abortion.
The issue of abortion has long divided the United States, but pregnancy termination is a part of reproductive health and, for some, a necessity. Now that it has become more difficult (depending on your state) to access abortion, knowing how to find these services is more important than ever.
Abortion Rights Vary by State
The Supreme Court decision effectively left each state to determine its own laws around abortion, and so some have changed them—or will in the near future.
For example, in Ohio, South Carolina, and Tennessee, abortion is only legal up to the sixth week of pregnancy. In states like Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and South Dakota, abortion is banned completely, with limited exceptions (an example of an exception may be life endangerment; however, pregnancy resulting from rape or incest is not currently deemed an exception in these states). Laws, as well as possible limited exceptions, are likely to change as states adjust.
Resources for Pregnancy Termination
If you’re considering pregnancy termination, or just want to know more about it to inform your decisions, it’s crucial to find resources that provide accurate information and support, particularly if you live in a state with little or no access.
“Everyone in the United States has the right to self-determination, and part of that is simply having information so you can make informed decisions,” says Diane Solomon, Ph.D., a psychiatric nurse practitioner in Portland, Oregon. Early in her career, Solomon worked at Planned Parenthood and at an abortion clinic, both in metropolitan Washington, D.C., where she counseled many people through pregnancy termination. “I always suggest getting information from reliable sources for any healthcare issue, especially reproductive healthcare, because it's so personal.”
Here are national resources that can help you find what you need as quickly as possible:
1. Planned Parenthood
Planned Parenthood is a national nonprofit that provides reproductive healthcare and sex education in every state, with more than 600 health centers throughout the country.
For more information: Planned Parenthood has a guide to help you understand your options depending on what state you live in and how far along you are in your pregnancy.
2. National Abortion Federation
The National Abortion Federation is a professional association of abortion providers, which represents and supports providers in delivering care.
For more information: You can access information on the NAF website or call the national hotline at 800-772-9100.
3. Indigenous Women Rising
Indigenous Women Rising is an abortion fund that is open to all Indigenous people in the United States and Canada seeking an abortion.
For more information: You can fill out a form online or call 505-398-1990.
4. If/When/How
This legal organization supports and advances reproductive justice by providing legal advice, representation, and attorney referrals to pregnant people.
For more information: You can contact the organization for legal advice on abortion in your state or call them at 844-868-2812.
5. Black Mamas Matter Alliance
The Black Mamas Matter Alliance is a national network of Black women-led and Black-led organizations that support Black women's maternal health, rights, and justice.
For more information: You can get news and updates on how the organization is helping Black women and check out its network of partners.
6. TFMR Mamas
This organization provides free monthly support groups and paid weekly support groups for people who have terminated a pregnancy for medical reasons (TFMR).
For more information: Fill out the contact form and find out more about how to access help.
Other Resources for Support
7. Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA)
If you're struggling with anxiety and/or depression due to lack of access to pregnancy termination, or because of the abortion itself, the ADAA has information and resources to help you find a therapist.
8. 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
If you’re having thoughts of death or suicide, immediate help is available 24/7 at the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You can get connected by calling 988 or by chatting with counselors online.
9. Crisis Text Line
If you're in crisis, you can text HOME to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor.
Reach Out for Help
While considering pregnancy termination can cause a range of emotions, including fear and anxiety, Solomon stresses that it’s important to seek support. “You are not alone. No matter where you come from or how isolated you feel, many people have made a path that you can follow, whatever your decision is.”
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