While Metro Women’s Center is not a medical clinic, here is some basic information that many people are concerned about with the recent overturning of Roe v. Wade. Abortion access and pregnancy-related healthcare is top of mind for women who are expecting.
Although rare, pregnancy-related health complications can be a risk and even life-threatening to the pregnant woman. In states that restrict abortion access (or ban it almost altogether), there are exceptions for women whose life is endangered by their pregnancies.
Is Treatment for an Ectopic Pregnancy the Same as an Abortion?
An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that is located outside of the uterus, most often in the fallopian tube. This type of pregnancy is life-threatening to the woman, but treatment for it does differ from an abortion.
Treatment for ectopic pregnancies includes a medication called methotrexate or surgical intervention if determined it’s necessary. Elective abortion usually occurs through surgery that removes the fetus from the uterus, or through a series of drugs called mifepristone and misoprostol.
According to Dr. Patricia Santiago Munoz, M.D., “Ectopic pregnancy treatment is not the same as abortion… treatment cannot be generalized as ‘abortion,’ particularly because many women with ectopic pregnancies planned to conceive and wanted to carry their pregnancies to term.”
Is Treatment for a Miscarriage the Same as an Abortion?
Abortion and miscarriages are different, although the clinical language that distinguishes the two can be confusing (elective vs. spontaneous abortion).
An article published by the University of Missouri’s School of Medicine clarifies between the two, “Abortion is the [deliberate and intentional] termination of a pregnancy…in which the embryo or fetus is prematurely removed or caused to be expelled…in contrast to spontaneous abortion, or miscarriage, in which the embryo or fetus is involuntarily expelled because of accidental trauma or disease.”
The medical protocols for abortion and miscarriage procedures are often similar, but the intentions are different.
Will Emergency Treatment To End Pregnancy Be Denied Post Roe?
Medical treatment related to health risks caused by pregnancy will not be restricted. Even in states where abortion access is rigidly restricted, like Texas, the statute includes an exception for a medical emergency for the woman.
Secretary of Health and Human Services released guidance which states that treatment is the responsibility of medical professionals who will do everything possible to save the woman’s life, defining emergency medical conditions as “ectopic pregnancy, complications of pregnancy loss…preeclampsia with severe features.”
Next Steps
We are here to support and answer questions, and we do this through our no-cost services as well as appointments where you can have the opportunity to discuss options in a confidential, pressure-free environment.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment for assistance related to your pregnancy situation.