Share Your Stories On How State Abortion Bans Have Impacted You Or Someone You Know

Since Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022, 21 states have implemented abortion bans or imposed restrictions that limit the procedure earlier in pregnancy than the standards previously established by the ruling.

Strict state abortion bans are impacting healthcare for both providers and patients. ProPublica reported that at least two pregnant women in Texas died after doctors delayed emergency care because they had to wait until the fetal heartbeat ceased before intervening to help the mother.

ProPublica / Via Twitter: @tracyweber

Across the US, reports of dangerous, life-threatening situations are rising in states with strict abortion bans. Many patients must travel across state lines for necessary care; however, researchers note that out-of-state travel is not always feasible and can even pose risks. The costs of seeking care elsewhere can run into thousands of dollars, especially for those further along in pregnancy. Additionally, the growing number of maternity care deserts, combined with a "mass exodus" of OB-GYNs from states with restrictive abortion laws, is making it increasingly difficult for pregnant people to access essential care.

Twitter: @NickKnudsenUS

So, with abortion on the line this election (10 states are voting to sign the right to abortion into their state constitutions) and the future of abortion hinging on the policies of those we elect into power, I want to know how state abortion bans have impacted you. How have you or someone you know been affected by state abortion bans post-Roe?

Maybe you live in an abortion-restricted state and had to drive your friend to a neighboring state for an abortion. Your friend couldn't get an appointment for two weeks because of all the patients traveling in. Luckily, she had the means to afford traveling and lodging to get help, but you're concerned for the many people who don't have the resources to make the trip.

Perhaps the restrictions felt so concerning that you chose to abstain from sex until you could undergo a hysterectomy.

You live in a state with an abortion ban and limited access to reproductive health services nearby, so you couldn’t bear the thought of facing the possible repercussions if something went wrong. The decision wasn’t made lightly but felt necessary in a place where your options felt so limited.

Maybe you and your partner were weighing the idea of having biological children back and forth, but after a restrictive abortion limit was enacted in your state, you felt the choice was made for you.

You were considered "advanced maternal age" (pregnant over 35) and did not want to risk not getting proper medical care if complications arose from your pregnancy. Although you were already weighing your options, it frustrates you that you felt this decision was already made for you.

So, whether you or someone you know has been affected by a state abortion ban or restriction, tell us how in the comments below or using this anonymous form. Your story could be featured in an upcoming BuzzFeed Community post.