By Felipe on February 11th, 2025. Posted under: 2024, Blog Post, Featured Article
Around the world, pregnant individuals face barriers to accessing safe, compassionate care, and providers encounter more challenges in ensuring reproductive rights are protected. Yet, in the face of adversity, members at Medical Students for Choice (MSFC) continue to make a lasting impact.
Two of our board members share their insights on the progress made in reproductive health and education, the significance of hands-on training, and the importance of supporting future healthcare professionals. Their perspectives highlight the hope and momentum in our community:
Jennifer Zhang, President-Elect
University of British Columbia
“As a Canadian medical student, I am grateful that in Canada, abortion remains legal and an available medical procedure. W hile environmental and systems barriers exist in accessing abortion, it is important that here we can practice without risks of provider or patient criminalization However, hands-on learning is rare, and didactic teaching is also limited. In the US, uncertainty surrounds the future of abortion care. At MSFC, we continue to support and champion the reproductive justice movement.
This year, MSFC’s in-person Conference on Family Planning (CoFP) was a unique space where folks could share experiences and learnings on abortion care and reproductive justice, which is much needed for current and aspiring providers practicing in all levels of restrictions. Providing hands-on practice opportunities and collaborative sessions that are rarely found in medical curriculums, the CoFP is something I am very grateful for and leaves me invigorated for the coming year.”
Dr. Hadiza P B Thompson
University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria
“As we enter a new year, I want to reflect on the immense strides made in reproductive health and justice, both in the US and across the globe. What we did last year was nothing short of inspiring! It is a work grounded in compassion, resilience, and a commitment to every person’s right to access comprehensive reproductive care regardless of where they live or the barriers they face. I am deeply grateful for the in-person trainings that continue helping medical students and professionals with the tools, knowledge, and courage needed to effect change. These training sessions are spaces of advocacy and learning, where every action brings us one step closer to a world where reproductive rights are human rights.
MSFC is shaping the future of reproductive health and justice, not just in the U.S. but in Africa. In places where access to abortion care is limited, where sexual and reproductive health education is sparse, and where systemic barriers continue to prevent many people from receiving the care they need, we are making an indelible mark. This work is especially crucial in Africa, where both cultural and political challenges often exacerbate reproductive health disparities. Through training and advocacy, MSFC is creating a new generation of healthcare professionals who are ready to provide care, committed to challenging the status quo, and advocate for reproductive justice at every turn. Looking ahead, I am filled with hope. The strides we’ve made, though significant, are only the beginning. What we are doing together–whether through education, resources, or policy change–is laying the foundation for a future where reproductive justice is a reality for all.
To you reading this, know that you are part of something monumental. Your impact, whether through your actions or your support of MSFC and organizations like it, is shaping a future where reproductive health and rights are accessible to everyone, everywhere. As we enter this new year, let’s hold onto our mission, knowing that each day we are bringing hope to the hearts of those who need it most and restoring their dignity and autonomy.
Thank you for being part of this transformative journey. We will continue to achieve feats and move closer to a world where all reproductive health choices are freely accessible.”
This work would not be possible without the dedication of our supporters, members, and allies. Our MSFC community is shaping the future of reproductive health where education and hands-on training are the necessary tools for change.
By Felipe on November 12th, 2024. Posted under: 2024, Statement
MSFC Executive Director Pamela Merritt issued the following statement on the 2024 election:
Political power may shift between parties, but Medical Students for Choice remains unwavering in our commitment to support future abortion care providers and advocate for reproductive justice globally.
MSFC has provided family planning and abortion training for over 30 years, and we will continue to ensure our members receive patient-centered, evidence-based training.
Voters in the 2024 election made a clear demand for abortion access. They have given us a mandate to liberate reproductive health care from politics, and MSFC is eager to lead efforts to establish reproductive rights for all.
Contact: Pierina Gendusa, media@msfc.org
By Felipe on November 06th, 2024. Posted under: 2024, Blog Post, Featured Article
Medical Students for Choice (MSFC) is dedicated to supporting students worldwide to advocate for reproductive freedom, access to contraception, and safe abortion education. Through local chapter events, these student-led initiatives have sparked meaningful conversations, provided hands-on training, and reached communities needing accurate and accessible health information. Below are the recent activities of MSFC chapters in Africa, detailing how each chapter has approached education, advocacy, and community engagement to positively impact in their regions.
FSS COTONOU UNIVERSITY – BENIN
During the first half of 2024, FSS Cotonou organized a webinar on the importance of contraception, during which they addressed numerous uncertainties that their fellow students had on the topic. Subsequently, they conducted an initiation activity for new members on Sexual and Reproductive Health. In addition to this, they carried out various information campaigns, notably on International Women’s Rights Day and International Menstrual Hygiene Day.
GULU UNIVERSITY – UGANDA
In collaboration with the student body of Gulu University in Uganda, the MSFC Gulu chapter organized a march through Gulu. Accompanied by a band, medical students wore their clinical coats to advocate for accessible medical abortion services, aiming to reduce the mortality rates and post-abortion complications faced by individuals, who are unable or unprepared to continue pregnancies for personal reasons. Due to the inaccessibility of abortion services, many are forced to resort to unsafe, self-administered methods, such as the use of herbs.
In their efforts to bring about positive change, the group also sought to reach the entire community. They utilized Radio Pacis as a platform to educate the public on various family planning methods, including where these services can be accessed, how they work, their uses, and potential side effects. This initiative had a significant impact as there was an increased turnover of community members accessing the family planning services compared to before.
MSFC Gulu Chapter members at Radio Pacis, a community-based radio station in Arua, Uganda.
MAKERERE UNIVERSITY – UGANDA
In Uganda, the MSFC-MAK Chapter organized a two-day Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) Day Fair in collaboration with various partners at the College of Business Administration and Management Studies (COBAMS). The event provided students with opportunities to showcase innovations in sexual and reproductive health and access services such as condoms, safe male circumcision, contraceptive services, menstrual hygiene services, HIV/AIDS and STI testing and screening, pregnancy testing, reproductive health education, emergency contraception, and more.
The fair also included activities aimed at reducing unsafe abortions among university students. There was a collaborative evaluation meeting with Makerere University Hospital and partnering clinics, preliminary debates for the SRH Inter-University Dialogue, a menstrual campaign, and the national launch of the “Community Check Now” HIV testing services in Uganda.
Flyer for the Sexual and Reproductive Health Day Fair organized by the MSFC Makerere Chapter
MBARARA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – UGANDA
The MSFC chapter organized a sexual and reproductive health event in collaboration with Reproductive Health Uganda, students, and the Mbarara Medical Students Association. The event attracted 87 students and provided services such as SRH education, guidance and counseling, safe abortion education, family planning information, condom distribution (56 boxes distributed), and HIV testing and counseling (22 individuals tested). A key goal was also to raise the visibility of Medical Students for Choice within Mbarara University.
In addition to the event, they conducted outreach in university halls, distributing flyers and posters about Medical Students for Choice, family planning, safe abortion, and women’s rights. These materials were posted on notice boards in various hostels, allowing students who may not attend SRH events to access vital information and reach more students.
SOROTI UNIVERSITY – UGANDA
The chapter hosted hands-on training in surgical abortion, utilizing models and Manual Vacuum Aspirator (MVA) sets. First-time participants gained foundational knowledge in the use of MVA as a vital tool in abortion training, in addition to learning other methods such as dilatation and curettage.
In collaboration with university religious groups, the chapter also organized a one-day workshop on engaging traditional and religious leaders in sexual and reproductive health and rights activism. Recognizing that religious leaders hold significant influence, the workshop allowed participants to explore what different faiths say about sexual and reproductive health and rights (SHRH).
Additionally, the chapter conducted a capacity-building session on self-care and personal resilience in SRHR activism, addressing common obstacles and how to navigate them in any context.
UNIVERSITY OF NGOZI – BURUNDI
During the semester, the chapter organized three key events advocating for reproductive justice for all.
- On February 13th, medical students gathered to discuss how they can engage in comprehensive family planning, including abortion, by breaking the stigma surrounding these services. The event was attended by 50 students (27 girls and 23 boys).
- On March 5th, the chapter, which included 25 students, celebrated International Women’s Day. This event focused on empowering girls to stand up for their rights, including abortion rights.
- On May 28th, in honor of Menstrual Hygiene Day, 55 students met to discuss how menstruation can be normalized and how to avoid stigmatizing girls during their periods. The event emphasized supporting girls throughout their monthly physiological journey.
Medical students in MSFC chapters have been at the forefront of reproductive health advocacy, striving to create safer, more informed communities. By addressing topics such as family planning, menstrual hygiene, and safe abortion practices, these students are empowering their peers and local communities to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
By Felipe on October 08th, 2024. Posted under: 2024, Blog Post, Featured Article
We’re thrilled to share the journey of the Medical Students for Choice (MSFC) chapter in Riga, Latvia, the first of its kind in the Baltics. Our chapter, based at Riga Stradins University (RSU), one of Latvia’s largest medical schools, was inspired by the 2022 FIAPAC conference held at RSU. This event, organized by the International Federation of Abortion and Contraception Professionals, connected us with reproductive rights activists worldwide and set the stage for our mission to advocate for reproductive rights.
Our current team—Isabell von Waitz, Patricia Steuber, Hanna Kreuzer, Féline Kuhn, and Linda Schulz—came together with a common goal: to empower choice in reproductive healthcare. United in our commitment, we’ve organized various educational activities, including film evenings, open discussions, and lectures. A highlight was a session with Theresa Nisslmüller, a member of Doctors for Choice and an OBGYN, who shared invaluable insights into reproductive rights in Germany. We’ve also conducted two Papaya Workshops, also known as a Manual Vacuum Aspiration (MVA) Workshop. An MVA is a safe and easy method of providing early surgical abortion. A papaya is used as the model and students use the MVA procedure to remove papaya pulp and seeds from the papaya which simulates suctioning the products of conception from the uterus. This was possible through support from MSFC HQ and our mentors, Dr. Olga Plisko and Dr. Anita Ungure, and resources from German MSFC chapters. The latest workshop featured Marcela Trocha, a veteran reproductive rights activist from Poznan, drawing over 50 enthusiastic medical students.
Impressions from the first Papaya Workshop. (Photo: Aleksandrs Oborins)
In addition to workshops, we hosted a lecture on Transgender Healthcare, emphasizing the diverse needs and choices within healthcare. Our book club discussion on “Ejaculate Responsibly” by Gabrielle Blair broadened our perspective on reproductive health by highlighting the often overlooked role of male fertility in contraception.
Our motivation is deeply rooted in the belief in free choice and bodily autonomy. The 2022 overturning of Roe v. Wade intensified the urgency of the pro-choice movement globally. In Europe, rising far-right ideologies threaten reproductive rights, making our advocacy for gender equality and social justice more critical than ever. Through our work, we aim to increase the availability of abortion providers and ensure comprehensive reproductive healthcare training for medical students, an often neglected area in medical education.
One of our most rewarding moments was the overwhelming response to our first Papaya Workshop in the Baltics. The students’ enthusiasm has inspired us to consider making these workshops a regular part of our activities. Our mentors, who led the workshop for the first time, have been strong advocates for integrating such practical training into the medical curriculum.
First Papaya Workshop in the Baltics with mentors Dr. Olga Plisko and Dr. Anita Ungure (Photo: Aleksandrs Oborins)
Our journey has included challenges. One of the biggest hurdles was creating a collaborative space between international students and students from the OBGYN association. Securing Manual Vacuum Aspirators (MVAs) for our workshops was another challenge, initially solved by borrowing kits from German MSFC chapters, leading to a cross-border collaboration. Recently, through the generous support of Doctors for Choice Germany, we’ve become proud owners of our MVAs, enabling us to continue our Papaya Workshops independently.
These experiences have taught us the importance of reaching out and building connections with like-minded organizations and individuals. Collaboration and careful planning have allowed us to overcome obstacles and lay the foundation for sustained and impactful advocacy. Looking ahead, securing consistent funding will be essential as we continue to expand our workshops and other activities.
From left to right: Diāna Grasmane (Human Rights activist), Arturs Zaremba (Clinical Psychologist) and Dr. Una Gailiša (Endocrinologist) speaking at the Transgender Healthcare Lecture.
Our goal is to destigmatize abortion, dispel myths, and promote safer practices in reproductive healthcare, ultimately strengthening the doctor-patient relationship and fostering greater trust in healthcare settings.
For any student considering starting an MSFC chapter at their medical school, our advice is simple: take the plunge. Connect with like-minded individuals and feminist organizations. The MSFC network is strong and supportive, and if there isn’t a chapter in your country, neighboring ones can offer guidance. Build connections, find supportive physicians, and start with accessible activities like movie screenings. Together, we can advance reproductive healthcare rights and make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and healthcare providers.
Second Papaya Workshop with mentor Dr. Olga Plisko. (Photo: Aleksandrs Oborins)
By Felipe on August 21st, 2024. Posted under: 2024, Blog Post, Featured Article, News and Views
The fall semester begins! Now is the time to welcome new members, revitalize our chapters, and deepen our commitment to reproductive health education. Whether you are an Experienced Student Leader (ESL) or new to Medical Students for Choice (MSFC), the upcoming months promise a variety of opportunities for learning, advocacy, and growth.
Welcoming New Members
A new semester brings new faces, fresh perspectives, and boundless enthusiasm. At MSFC, we are thrilled to welcome new members passionate about reproductive rights and health. Joining MSFC means becoming part of a community dedicated to education, advocacy, and support.
For those new to our chapters, there are many ways to get involved:
- Many chapters host events and clinical training sessions at the start of the semester. These are great opportunities to meet current members, learn about our mission, and find out how you can contribute. MSFC provides Event Resources for personalized event planning help with chapter events and workshops.
- We offer various training sessions and workshops equip you with the knowledge and skills to advocate for reproductive health. Our workshops are interactive and engaging; providing a platform for students to ask questions, participate in discussions, and learn from experts in the field.
- Get started in participating in local advocacy efforts, engaging in campus outreach, or contributing to curriculum reform. There are numerous ways to make your voice heard as a future abortion provider.
Arkansas MSFC welcoming first-year medical students during the Interest Group Fair
Enhancing Our MSFC Chapters
Existing members play a crucial role in helping our chapters thrive. Your experience and knowledge are invaluable in mentoring new members and leading initiatives.
Here are a few ways you can help strengthen our chapters:
- Experienced Student Leaders offer mentorship to new members by sharing their experiences, providing guidance, and helping them navigate their involvement in MSFC.
- You may consider becoming an MSFC Chapter Leader at your campus. Your leadership can significantly impact in your medical journey and curriculum.
- We also work with other reproductive health organizations and groups to broaden our reach and amplify our message. Collaborative efforts can lead to innovative projects and stronger advocacy networks.
Family Planning and Reproductive Health Education
This semester, we are committed to engaging more students in workshops to advance their skills in reproductive health care. These workshops are designed to provide comprehensive, evidence-based information on a range of topics, from contraception and abortion care to advocacy and policy.
Don’t forget to register for the 2024 Conference on Family Planning – Bridging Divides, Sparking Connections: The Power of Community! This year’s conference will be held in Denver, Colorado on Saturday, December 7 – Sunday, December 8, 2024. Registration opens on August 26 and closes on October 28, 2024. MSFC welcomes our members, alum, and colleagues to join us as we meet in person to engage with the pro-choice community and spark new connections to bridge divides in reproductive health, equity, and justice through medical student education, training, and advocacy.
How to Get Involved with MSFC
Contact Your Local Chapter: Find out about events and meetings happening on your campus. Email our Student Organizing team and we will help you get connected to an existing chapter or start one at your medical school.
Follow Us on Social Media: Follow what future doctors are doing to protect and expand abortion access. And stay updated with our latest news and events.
Visit our Website: Explore resources, upcoming events, and more information about MSFC.
We look forward to a productive and inspiring semester ahead. Welcome to the new semester with Medical Students for Choice!
By Felipe on February 29th, 2024. Posted under: 2024, Statement
As an advocacy organization with more than 10,000 members across 34 countries, Medical Students for Choice is guided by our mission to “support future abortion care providers and advocate for reproductive justice globally.” Our words and actions center reproductive justice in an effort to disrupt the ways in which white supremacy, racial capitalism, imperialism, and patriarchy all converge to limit access to care. In this spirit, and as an organization whose global membership is actively harmed by these forces every day, Medical Students for Choice denounces the multiple crises happening globally, from Palestine to Sudan, Armenia, Haiti, Ukraine, Myanmar, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and other contexts.
After bearing witness to more than 140 days of escalating bombardment in Gaza, the International Court of Justice recently determined that the Israeli government is plausibly committing genocide. Since October, the Israeli government has killed more than 26,000 Gazans, with an estimated two mothers being killed every hour. With no fully-functional hospitals remaining in Gaza, more than 540,000 reproductive-age women and girls are being systematically denied access to essential health care. That number includes an estimated 50,000 people experiencing pregnancies in the absence of the routine prenatal and peripartum care required for long-term maternal and child health. Experts warn of impending famine, undrinkable water, and inaccessible sanitation services, as humanitarian aid to the region remains strangled.
This genocidal violence is one of the worst instances of reproductive injustice that we have witnessed in our lifetimes. As current and future physicians, we recognize that the systems of harm that created conditions for these atrocities are as old as our profession. Despite our moral and ethical commitments to doing no harm, physicians have long engaged in reproductive coercion, from eugenics movements and experimentation to ongoing systemic discrimination.
As the next generation of reproductive healthcare providers and advocates, we are determined to create a more just future. Our vision for reproductive justice compels us to build systems of care grounded in principles of abolition and harm reduction, like those that poor, Black and brown, Indigenous, queer, undocumented, and other marginalized communities have cultivated for centuries — those that we are seeing from the caregivers in Gaza and other communities enduring violence. Our work begins with solemn recognition that reproductive injustice anywhere is reproductive injustice everywhere, and that the silence and silencing of health professionals is complicity.
To that end, Medical Students for Choice echoes calls from MSF, UNDP, UNFPA, UNICEF, WFP, and WHO for an immediate, permanent ceasefire. We stand alongside reproductive justice organizations like ARC-Southeast in calling for Palestinian liberation through self-determination. And we urge our fellow health professionals and advocacy organizations — particularly those in imperialist nations like the United States — to join us in solidarity with the most marginalized among us, in Gaza and around the world.
By Felipe on February 13th, 2024. Posted under: 2024, Featured Article, News and Views
Last week, MSFC members Danna Ghafir and Natalie Givens joined medical and undergraduate students across the country to participate in a virtual roundtable discussion with the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services, Xavier Becerra. The roundtable on reproductive health and justice was organized to commemorate the 51st anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision and offer an opportunity for student advocates to share their experiences and ask the Secretary questions.
Danna and Natalie are medical students in restrictive states Texas and Georgia. Their experiences with a lack of access to abortion training were amplified by similar stories from the medical students who attended the roundtable. Danna shared that in Texas, abortion education has been highly variable between medical schools. As an Experienced Student Leader for Texas chapters, Danna engages with chapter leaders across the state to understand the status of abortion education at their schools. Some medical schools offer lectures dedicated to abortion and complex contraception, the existence of which is often the result of student-driven curriculum reform efforts made possible with the support of MSFC resources. Meanwhile, other schools have little to no mention of abortion care in their didactic curricula, and these students rely on external learning opportunities, like MSFC’s virtual lectures and the Reproductive Health Externship program offering training in other states.
Natalie shared with the Secretary her experience as a medical student in Georgia, where abortion is banned after detection of embryonic cardiac activity, which usually occurs around 6 weeks gestational age. Her school gave a lecture on abortion care during her didactic years. To get more experience, Natalie recently asked to shadow an abortion provider who helped at an MSFC event. The provider declined, saying that because of the current Georgia law, abortion patients have much more fear, and having a medical student shadowing in the room could erode the patient’s trust in such a vulnerable situation. Medical students from restrictive states shared stories similar to Natalie’s, expressing their concern that states with restrictive abortion laws have, on average, higher maternal mortality rates and fewer maternity care providers1, yet medical students are disincentivized to pursue OB-GYN residency training in these states due to potential limitations in their education.
The spectrum of educational opportunities around abortion care in US medical schools is broad and unstandardized. Currently, the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) does not include any requirements for abortion education or training in their curriculum standards. According to their website, “The LCME is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and WFME as the notable authority for the accreditation of medical education programs leading to the MD degree.” When asked if the Department of Health and Human Services is collaborating with the Department of Education to standardize abortion education and training in medical schools nationwide, the Secretary responded that they do not currently collaborate with the DoE on this matter, but that they recognize the concerns students brought up regarding this issue. A collaborative effort between the two regulatory bodies could ensure that all medical students have access to the information required to understand evidence-based abortion care practices, and we call on both departments to address this pressing concern.
MSFC has an ongoing petition to the LCME to include abortion training in Undergraduate Medical Education. An excerpt of the petition is below:
As medical students and trainees, we are asking the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) to include abortion learning objectives and options counseling within the accreditation requirements of each medical school. Currently, the LCME requires that medical school curricula include each organ system, each phase of the human life cycle, continuity of care, and preventive, acute, chronic, rehabilitative, and end-of-life care; however, it does not include any reference to abortion training.
As a medical community and medical education training community, it is the responsibility of the LCME to hold medical schools accountable for providing comprehensive and patient-centered medical education. Healthcare is paramount over any political agenda, and the LCME should be able to defend medical education against policies that endanger the health of our patients.
We were very thankful to be invited to attend the roundtable and have the opportunity to share our experiences with Secretary Becerra and HHS staff members. The discussion ended with Secretary Becerra giving heartfelt thanks to all medical students and undergraduate reproductive health advocates in attendance for their perseverance and vulnerability in sharing their stories.
Reference
Eugene Declercq et al., The U.S. Maternal Health Divide: The Limited Maternal Health Services and Worse Outcomes of States Proposing New Abortion Restrictions (Commonwealth Fund, Dec. 2022).
By Felipe on February 05th, 2024. Posted under: 2024, Blog Post
Last year marked the 30th anniversary of Medical Students for Choice. Over three decades, our organization has grown to represent more than 10,000 student-advocates across 287 chapters in 29 countries.
As we celebrated this milestone, we reflected upon our evolving organizational purpose and aspirations for the future. With input from our global community, the MSFC Board of Directors spent the last year working to refresh our mission statement. We are excited to announce our revised mission statement: “to support future abortion care providers and advocate for reproductive justice globally.”
This statement better reflects that our organization’s focus includes but is not limited to abortion, in line with our increasing focus on reproductive justice. Moreover, it captures our commitment to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusivity within our organization, as we work to combat the forces of white supremacy, patriarchy, colonial imperialism, and capitalism that shape our world.
By Felipe on January 29th, 2024. Posted under: 2024, Featured Article
In the aftermath of the U.S. Supreme Court’s reversal of Roe v. Wade, a ruling that previously established federal protection for patient autonomy in reproductive decision-making, state governments across the nation encountered a pivotal inflection point in reproductive health policy. This juncture signified more than a legal transformation; it represented a fundamental shift in the medical landscape, directly impacting the ability of individuals to exercise their reproductive rights. In the recent 2023 midterm elections, Ohio and Virginia emerged as critical arenas in the discourse on the preservation of reproductive autonomy.
Ohio voters approved Issue 1, an amendment that guarantees individuals’ rights to make their own reproductive decisions, including personal choices on abortion, up until the point of fetal viability (1). Fetal viability refers to the point at which a fetus can survive ex-utero and is defined by Ohio law as 21 weeks and 6 days. The Issue 1 amendment aimed to prevent the reinstatement of SB23, the most recent six-week state abortion ban based on fetal heartbeat detection (2). The direct vote on abortion regulations marked a departure from previous abortion restrictions and a victory for reproductive rights in Ohio.
Similarly, Virginia saw a significant development in the protection of reproductive rights legislation with a political shift establishing a Democratic majority determined to counteract future abortion restrictions. Currently, Virginia’s abortion laws, 18.2-72 and 18.2-73, legalize most abortions until the end of the second trimester, which aligns with the recent amendment proposed in Ohio (3). Recent efforts by Republican legislators have threatened these rights by pushing for a 15-week abortion ban. However, the Democratic sweep during the Virginia midterm ensures the preservation of the current abortion rights within the state.
These recent legislative advancements demonstrate significant implications for practicing providers and research focuses. For providers, the reversal of abortion restrictions restores their full scope of practice and guarantees adequate training in complex abortion care. As reproductive rights continue to evolve, healthcare providers have a responsibility to stay informed on state policy changes and abortion practice guidelines. The implementation of Texas SB8, which prevents providers from offering abortion as an option if a fetal heartbeat is detected, serves as a resounding example of the complexities introduced into the counseling process for healthcare providers. Grappling with insurance and institutional limitations that restrict patient eligibility for hospital-based care, providers are faced with increasing uncertainty on the conditions for which abortion should be considered (4).
In addition to awareness of state-specific legislation, physicians must be committed to advocating for accessible training and comprehensive education on abortion provision. A comprehensive review of abortions in the U.S. concluded that abortions are safe and effective, with rates of complications below 1%, significantly lower than those associated with childbirth (5). Recent studies show that one in five physicians are not confident that abortions are “very or extremely safe,” underscoring gaps in current provider knowledge (6). Ensuring that providers are adequately informed on both legislative and clinical fronts, along with understanding current limitations and opportunities for improved education, is crucial to protecting patient safety and working towards safeguarding provider access to training regardless of the state they go on to practice in.
Research also continues to remain a vital front in evaluating patient safety, psychological impacts, and long-term health outcomes for individuals accessing reproductive care in states with restrictive abortion policies. The shifting legislative landscape, such as recent amendments in Ohio, underscores the growing necessity for such research. Rigorous research guides evidence-based practice standards, and serves as a tool to identify critical gaps in healthcare provision, particularly in the context of complex pregnancies. Another area warranting active research is the impact of abortion costs on patient safety and morbidity. Before the Dobbs decision, three quarters of abortion patients, falling at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, depended on individual state jurisdiction on the use of Medicaid funds for abortion services, given that the Hyde Amendment prohibits federal Medicaid from covering most abortion procedures (7). Considering the role that financial barriers play in the ability to receive abortion care both in and out of state, it is increasingly important to assess the intersection between social determinants of health and the inability to undergo a desired abortion as state laws change.
The legislative developments in Ohio and Virginia mark a significant step forward in preserving reproductive rights. These developments also highlight the transient nature of the current abortion legislative landscape, indicating the urgency to enact federal legislation that codifies the protection of individuals seeking abortion care. Advocacy for nationwide efforts to expand access to abortion care is necessary but must also be supplemented by education among abortion providers and continued research on the downstream effects of the Dobbs decision. Physicians bear the utmost responsibility to safeguard patient outcomes, and engage in legislative discourse and action that ultimately supports a patient’s right to bodily autonomy.
References
(1) Ohio Secretary of State. Issue 1: A Self-Executing Amendment Relating to Abortion and Other Reproductive Decisions. Columbus, OH: Ohio Secretary of State; 2023. Available here.
(2) Ohio General Assembly. Senate Bill 23: Human Rights and Heartbeat Protection Act. 133rd General Assembly, 131st General Assembly Regular Session. Columbus, OH: Ohio Legislature; 2019. Available here.
(3) Virginia General Assembly. Code of Virginia: Article 9. Abortion. Richmond, VA: Commonwealth of Virginia; 2023. Available here.
(4) Arey W, Lerma K, Carpenter E, Moayedi G, Harper L, Beasley A, et al. Abortion access and medically complex pregnancies before and after Texas senate Bill 8. Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2023;141(5):995–1003.
(5) The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, Committee on Reproductive Health Services. The Safety and Quality of Abortion Care in the United States. Washington (DC); The National Academies Press; 2018. Chapter 2, page 56.
(6) Swan LET, Cutler AS, Lands M, Schmuhl NB, Higgins JA. Physician beliefs about abortion safety and their participation in Abortion Care. Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare. 2023 Dec;38:100916.
(7) Weitz TA, O’Donnell J. The challenges in measurement for abortion access and use in research Post-Dobbs. Women’s Health Issues. 2023 May 22;33(4):323–7.
By Felipe on January 18th, 2024. Posted under: 2024, Statement
Medical Students for Choice is deeply concerned by the trend of state coalitions organizing to enshrine restrictions on abortion access into state constitutions. Codifying the most problematic components of Roe is a tactic that completely rejects the reproductive justice framework, placing greater importance on the rights of some while sacrificing abortion access for people most impacted by abortion bans.
There is no test that definitively determines viability. Viability should never be used to restrict access to care, and it absolutely should not be enshrined in state constitutions as a requirement to access abortion.
MSFC reaffirms our unwavering commitment to supporting any medical student or physician in training seeking abortion and family planning education, and we urge the movement for reproductive rights to stop attempting to resurrect Roe and start organizing for the abortion access Americans deserve.
Pamela Merritt
Executive Director
Medical Student for Choice
