In June of 2022, a fifty-year-old legal case, Roe v Wade, was overturned by the Supreme Court. But women across the United States felt the reverberations as voices everywhere began discussing the implications. The fallout of the ruling may feel deeply personal to you as you consider your future. Regardless of whether you’ve never planned on being pregnant or you just discovered that you are unexpectedly pregnant, we know that women’s reproductive health may feel overwhelming. So, at Marisol Health, we acknowledge the uncertainty of the times, and yet seek to empower you with the information and the education you need to make the best decision for you. Call us today at (303)731-6130 to find compassionate, confidential services.

Who or what is the Supreme Court?

The Supreme Court is the highest governing body within the Judicial Branch. Nine Justices collaborate to determine whether laws and court cases align with the constitution.[1] Depending on what they decide, the Supreme Court has the power to overturn a previous ruling or law.

What’s the history of Roe v Wade and other abortion laws and rulings?

In Roe v Wade, in 1973 the Supreme Court ruled that abortion could no longer be completely illegal. Instead, each state would decide up until what point in a pregnancy an abortion would be legal. [2]  Then, in 1992, Roe v Wade was upheld by the Supreme Court in Planned Parenthood of Southeastern Pennsylvania v Casey, but they added a few requirements for women seeking an abortion. Now, in 2022, Dobbs v Jackson Women’s Health Organization overturned both rulings because they determined that the constitution did not address abortion. Instead, each state legislature will not determine its own laws regarding abortion.

What does the overturn of Roe v Wade mean for women?

Despite the overturn of Roe v Wade, women continue to find themselves in unexpected pregnancies. Yet, every woman still maintains the right to make her own health care decisions. At Marisol Health, our goal remains to empower women to make the best decision for them and for their futures. We desire to come alongside of you to listen to you, and then to provide you with the education and the care you need. Call us today at (303)731-6130 to begin the journey of discovering your choices.

How will women be punished for having an abortion?

Currently, women will not be criminalized for having an abortion or seeking an abortion. But we know that the cultural climate may compound a feeling of being alone for a woman with an unexpected pregnancy.  At Marisol Health, we seek to provide confidential, compassionate care for all women. Call us at (303)731-6130 to not walk your journey alone.

Can I still receive life-saving medical care, even with the overturn of Roe v Wade?

Fortunately, Roe v Wade does not prevent a woman from receiving necessary life-saving emergency care in pregnancy. Despite the confusion and misinformation, the Court explicitly stated in their decision that a mother’s life must be protected. [3] So, a woman can legally and safely be treated by a doctor for either an ectopic pregnancy or a miscarriage.

Does the overturn of Roe v Wade change how an ectopic pregnancy will be treated?

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a pregnancy occurs outside of the uterus and can be life-threatening without proper treatment. Treatment usually entails either administration of a medication that stops the growth of the pregnancy or a surgery to remove the pregnancy. Treatment remains legal in all states and women can and should seek medical care if her life is threatened.

I’m afraid that I might have an ectopic pregnancy. What should I do?

Seek medical care immediately if you are experiencing severe pain or heavy bleeding. But, if you just discovered that you’re pregnant and you’re not sure if the pregnancy is located within your uterus, give us a call at (303)731-6130. After performing a medical-grade pregnancy test, we will use an ultrasound to determine the viability of your pregnancy.

How will women’s reproductive rights be affected in the future?

The future remains uncertain; however, women still have options regarding their reproductive health. Call us today at (303)731-6130 to talk about your choices.

If your future feels a bit terrifying, know that we are here for you. The changes occurring in our courts and laws don’t change you. We see that you’re unique, and we believe that you are capable. So, reach out to us today and our medical team would love to provide you with the information and the care you need to make the next right step.

 Sources:

[1] https://www.whitehouse.gov/about-the-white-house/our-government/the-judicial-branch/

[2] https://www.history.com/topics/womens-rights/roe-v-wade

[3] https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/21pdf/19-1392_6j37.pdf