Self-Managed Abortions: A Lifeline in a Restrictive World
The fight for reproductive rights, particularly the accessibility of medication abortion, continues to be a pressing issue. As we gather for Self-Managed Abortion Fest 2024 under the theme “The fight for Self-Managed Abortions isn’t over,” it’s imperative to highlight the importance of this healthcare option.
Medication abortion, a safe and effective method of terminating a pregnancy, has the potential to transform the lives of countless individuals. Self-managed abortion allows us to reclaim power in a world that often strips us of control. For many, particularly those who are BIPOC, LGBTQ+, young, poor, have disabilities or are undocumented — traditional healthcare settings can be fraught with risk. Racism, discrimination, and the threat of criminalization can create a hostile environment that discourages individuals from seeking necessary care. Outside of the formal healthcare system, self-managed abortion offers a safe and accessible alternative..
Everyone deserves the freedom to choose the abortion option that works best for them. Whether it’s care with a provider at a clinic, telehealth abortion services, or self-managing an abortion at home, the decision should ultimately rest with the individual. However, access to this essential healthcare is threatened by restrictive laws and misinformation. By sharing personal stories, we can challenge harmful stereotypes and advocate for policies that protect the right to bodily autonomy.
Sarah*, a 23-year-old woman from Georgia found herself faced with an unplanned pregnancy. Feeling alone and overwhelmed, she struggled with what to do. Knowing that she had no real support system, she wanted to terminate her pregnancy; however, by the time she made an appointment, she was seven weeks along. Due to Georgia’s HB 481, it is illegal to have an abortion in the state after six weeks. And the thought of traveling to North Carolina for the procedure seemed daunting and financially out of reach. Thankfully, through a friend, Sarah learned about medication abortion and the option of managing her own care.
“I was terrified at first,” Sarah recalls. “I had never really heard about self-managed abortions and wasn’t sure it would be safe, but I knew I couldn’t continue with the pregnancy. With the support of a trusted friend and her connection to some organizations, I was able to access the necessary medication and complete the procedure safely in the privacy of my own home.”
Sarah’s experience is not unique. Many individuals seeking abortions in states with restrictive laws are turning to self-managed abortion as a means of accessing essential healthcare. According to a study conducted by the research group Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health at the University of California, San Francisco, 2.4% of women tried to end their own pregnancies before Roe v. Wade was overturned. The following year that number went up to 3.4%. By sharing these stories, we can break down barriers of stigma and misinformation.
Another powerful narrative comes from Raquel*, a survivor of an unsafe abortion. The year is 2002. Raquel was 15 years old. “I knew this was a mistake I couldn’t afford, I was afraid of my parents and I was just way too young,” she said. After trusting a friend with her secret, her friend revealed that her aunt could help terminate the pregnancy. “Like I said, I was scared, but I didn’t see any other options,” she added. Raquel underwent a dangerous procedure that resulted in severe health complications. Her experience underscores the importance of safe and legal abortion care.
“I thought I was going to die … to this day I’ve never felt a pain like that,” Raquel remembered. “I’m pretty sure she used a wire hanger and when I left crying she told me not to tell anyone about it. Had I known what I know now about abortion pills like mifepristone, I would have never done it any other way.”
Healthcare providers also play a vital role in advocating for medication abortion. In an interview with NBC News, Georgia OB-GYN – Dr. Nisha Verma said “I see every day in my patients the utter relief when I am able to provide them with the abortion care they need, and I also see the desolation in the eyes of those for whom I am not able to provide care.” She continued, “for those, their options for abortion care are self-managing an abortion. This can be done using safe, reliable accessing of mifepristone and/or misoprostol, though some patients may not be aware or able to access this method.”
As we continue to fight for reproductive rights, it is essential to amplify the voices of those who have benefited from medication abortion. By sharing their personal stories, we can raise awareness about the importance of this healthcare option, challenge harmful stereotypes, and advocate for policies that protect access to essential reproductive care.
If you or someone you know need help obtaining a self-managed abortion visit the following resources:
*Symbolizes an alias as the interviewee asked to be kept anonymous.
