Alternative family planning methods for individuals residing in states with abortion restrictions
In the realm of family planning, individuals in the United States have a variety of options to choose from. This article aims to provide a clear and concise overview of these options, focusing on contraception, abortion, and resources available for those seeking family planning services.
Contraception
Contraception comes in various forms, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Permanent contraception (sterilization), such as tubal ligation for women and vasectomies for men, is nearly 100% effective and considered permanent methods. Hormonal contraceptives include oral contraceptive pills, transdermal patches, vaginal rings, progestin-only pills, long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) like hormonal IUDs and implants, and Depo-Provera injections. These methods prevent pregnancy by suppressing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, or thinning the uterine lining. Non-hormonal contraceptives include the copper IUD, barrier methods like condoms and diaphragms, spermicides, and natural family planning.
The effectiveness of these methods varies, with permanent sterilization being the most effective but irreversible, while LARCs offer very high efficacy with reversibility. Barrier and natural methods offer less protection against pregnancy and in some cases, provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Abortion
Abortion is a legal procedure in the United States, but certain states have restrictions based on factors such as gestational age or the viability of the pregnancy. People who have discovered a fetal anomaly may have the option to get an abortion if they do not feel prepared to care for the child, do not have the resources to care for the child, or the fetus is not viable. However, in some states, abortion may not be an option in cases of fetal anomalies, and a person may need to go out of state for access to abortion care.
Options for a person who has an unintended pregnancy include keeping the baby, adoption, or abortion. It is always recommended to speak with a healthcare professional or family planning clinic about what to do next.
Resources
Planned Parenthood can help connect people with the required resources and financial assistance to obtain out-of-state care. They provide an online tool to help find the nearest abortion clinic. For those seeking adoption resources, the National Council for Adoption is a valuable resource.
In some states, minors under 18 seeking abortion may require parental consent. Emergency contraceptives can be purchased without a prescription at most pharmacies, drugstores, or superstores, or with a prescription for Ella. People can use Planned Parenthood's online search tool to check potential requirements based on their state.
The National Network of Abortion Funds has a comprehensive list of abortion access funds in every state. The Repo Legal Defense Fund helps pay bail and attorney fees for people criminalized for having an abortion. The cost of an abortion can vary, but people with health insurance or on Medicaid may get them for a lower cost or for free. People who have experienced sexual violence may be eligible for funding for an abortion from the government or health insurance providers.
Counseling and Support
The National Abortion Federation offers confidential consultations, options for counseling, and limited financial assistance. They can be a valuable resource for those seeking support during an unintended pregnancy.
Identifying Crisis Pregnancy Centers
It is important to note that some organisations may pose as pregnancy resource centers but are in fact Crisis Pregnancy Centers (CPCs) that may pressure or shame a person into not going through with an abortion. Signs to identify CPCs include referring to themselves as pregnancy resource centers, pregnancy care centers, abortion alternatives, pregnancy help centers, or women's resource centers.
In conclusion, understanding the various contraception and abortion options available is crucial for making informed decisions about family planning. Resources such as Planned Parenthood, the National Abortion Federation, and the National Council for Adoption can provide valuable support and guidance during this process.
- Permanent contraception methods like tubal ligation for women and vasectomies for men, hormonal contraceptives, non-hormonal contraceptives, and the National Network of Abortion Funds may play a crucial role in maintaining one's health-and-wellness, especially women's health.
- Mental-health support is crucial during unintended pregnancies as the stigma around abortion may lead some people to opt for crisis pregnancy centers instead of licensed family planning clinics. The National Abortion Federation offers confidential counseling as a valuable resource for those facing this dilemma.
- Alongside supporting sexual-health through the use of various contraceptive methods, it is equally important to address mental-health concerns. The Repo Legal Defense Fund, by helping pay bail and attorney fees for individuals criminalized for having an abortion, can help alleviate additional stress caused during such sensitive situations.
