Two-Thirds of Teen Girls in States with Abortion Restrictions

Following the Supreme Court's 2022 decision overturning Roe v. Wade, two-thirds of U.S. teen girls now live in states with abortion bans, gestational limits, or parental involvement laws, making access to reproductive care especially difficult for adolescents. In Wisconsin, unclear and varying interpretations of abortion laws among hospitals have led to inconsistent care for patients, with some doctors highlighting increased risks and a lack of training opportunities in abortion-related services. Meanwhile, in Texas, abortion is completely illegal, forcing women to seek medication abortions online and often leaving them without medical support, particularly if complications arise. Despite claims that abortion bans would drive OB-GYNs out of restrictive states, a recent study found that pro-life states have actually seen an increase in OB-GYNs after Dobbs, though other reports suggest healthcare for pregnant women has become more complicated and potentially riskier. The combined effect of these policy changes has created significant disparities in abortion access and prenatal care across the United States, disproportionately impacting youth and those in restrictive states.