Strategies for obstetricians and gynecologists to advance reproductive autonomy in a post-Roe landscape

Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2024 Feb;230(2):226-234. doi: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.07.055. Epub 2023 Aug 1.

Abstract

The monumental reversal of Roe vs Wade dramatically impacted the landscape of reproductive healthcare access in the United States. The decision most significantly affects communities that historically have been and continue to be marginalized by systemic racism, classism, and ableism within the medical system. To minimize the harm of restrictive policies that have proliferated since the Supreme Court overturned Roe, it is incumbent on obstetrician-gynecologists to modify practice patterns to meet the pressing reproductive health needs of their patients and communities. Change will require cross-discipline advocacy focused on advancing equity and supporting the framework of reproductive justice. Now, more than ever, obstetrician-gynecologists have a critical responsibility to implement new approaches to service delivery and education that will expand access to evidence-based, respectful, and person-centered family planning and early pregnancy care regardless of their practice location or subspecialty.

Keywords: abortion; abortion access; contraception; genetic screening; healthcare services; provider responsibility; ultrasound.

MeSH terms

  • Abortion, Legal
  • Female
  • Gynecologists*
  • Humans
  • Obstetricians
  • Pregnancy
  • Reproduction
  • Supreme Court Decisions*
  • United States