Since the reversal of Roe v. Wade, many women worry that changing abortion laws in the US may prevent doctors from performing life-saving procedures when an abortion is necessary to save a woman’s life.

Currently, no woman is barred from accessing life-saving medical care, even in states like Texas with strict abortion laws.

Read this article to learn more about the different situations that some people believe require an abortion and the available medical care options.

Are Life-Saving Abortions Available in States with Restricted Abortion Access?

There is rarely a situation in which abortion is necessary or life-saving. Despite the rarity, Texas state laws are written to protect the health and safety of women should an abortion be medically necessary. Many women advocate for cases such as ectopic pregnancy as a reason for abortion. 

Is Abortion Necessary for Ectopic Pregnancy?

One of the primary concerns about seeking abortions is around situations like an ectopic pregnancy, which means that the embryo did not implant in the uterine wall. 

An ectopic pregnancy is not a viable pregnancy and poses major health risks to a woman if left untreated. It is important to know that surgery to remove an ectopic pregnancy is not an abortion.

What About High-Risk Pregnancies?

If a fetus has a rare genetic condition, like Trisomy 18, this does increase complications for the woman; however, it does not automatically require an abortion for effective treatment.

Most high-risk pregnancies with abnormalities may increase complications that can result in fetal health and development, perhaps even miscarriage or stillbirth. Still, there is little to no data to suggest that these require an abortion to protect the life of the woman. 

Working closely with your doctor to proactively manage your health and symptoms is essential.

Next Steps

To gauge the health of your pregnancy, we recommend a no-cost, pre-abortion screening appointment for a pregnancy test and possible ultrasound.

By confirming the pregnancy and gathering details such as the age and viability of your pregnancy, you can be aware of possible complications like an ectopic pregnancy.
Hope Women’s Center offers a safe space to learn more about your options and gather more information. Contact us today to schedule your no-cost appointment!