If you have eyes and a device with the internet, it's very likely your mind has been flooded with information regarding the recent Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe vs. Wade. This recent ruling now affords the states control to determine if abortions will be legal. The term "abortion" seems like the opposite topic for those in the infertility and loss realm, but there are actually more ties than we realize. If you are like me, you have seen several posts on social media stating procedures to assist some in ectopic pregnancies would be considered abortion. I remember one meme outlined 4 procedures having to do with loss that would be considered an abortion. There are also several sources saying there could be impacts on the technology used for IVF. As if those of us impacted by infertility or loss didn't have enough to feel anxious about, now we have to add this situation to our already uncertain lives.
You have enough going on without having to Google everything about this topic to determine how this will affect you, so we did the research for you. Below, you will find access to current articles outlining potential issues that may arise from this new ruling. Our hope is that this will serve as a resource for you during such a chaotic time. So take a giant breath, try to relax, and most importantly- be informed.
Infertility and Loss Impacts
Take-aways
The amount of embryos fertilize may be decreased.
Freezing embryos may not be allowed.
The following states have trigger laws which are intended to be immediately following this overturn: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming
Take-aways
There is much uncertainty.
What happens to embryos that aren't implanted may be cause for concern as often-times those embryos are discarded or donated to science (fun fact- you do have the option to donate your embryos to another couple who will not be using their own embryos for IVF)
Take-aways
Numerous states have laws in place that allow abortions in cases where the mother's life is in jeopardy.
Procedures such as Methotrexate injections or other procedures required to protect the mother'd health would be deemed legal abortions.
Take-aways
Procedures in place to handle miscarriages such as D and C may be looked into, but there is a lot of uncertainty.
The biggest takeaway from our research is to voice your concerns with your fertility doctor. You should also get yourself familiarized with your state's current laws and any trigger laws that would immediately follow this ruling. There is a lot to process so don't forget to breath and know this moment will pass and life will get less complicated.
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