Does the overturning of Roe v. Wade Affect FL?

The recent historic overturning of Roe v. Wade has left many people with questions about how their abortion access will be affected locally. Is abortion now illegal in all 50 states in all situations? Are certain medical procedures that affect women now going to be withheld?

Read this article so you know how this affects you in the state of Florida.

What It Means that Roe v. Wade Was Overturned

The Supreme Court established in the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that abortion rights were guaranteed by the constitution. The recent overruling of that decision, in the Dobbs vs Jackson Women’s Health Organization case, determined this was incorrect, thus establishing that abortion is no longer a federally protected right. 

This means that the question of abortion rights and access has since been handed over to the states to determine. 

Does Florida Currently Grant Abortion Access? 

Governor DeSantis signed into law the abortion ban that restricts abortion after 15 weeks, unless the life of the woman is threatened.

Telemedicine is also currently restricted, so a woman would need an in-person visit to get a prescription for a medication abortion.

Will This Limit Women’s Access to Healthcare?

Aside from restricting a woman’s access to abortion in 15 weeks, the current law does not affect the ability for women to seek medical attention for their reproductive health.

Whether it’s a high-risk or ectopic pregnancy or they are suffering from a stillbirth or natural miscarriage, women still have complete access to the medical resources and attention needed. 

What Happens Next?

First Coast Women’s Center offers no-cost pregnancy services to women in need, whether they are local Florida residents or from out of state. These services include lab-grade pregnancy tests and limited ultrasounds. 

Ultrasounds are an essential health screening which can help confirm the age of the pregnancy as well as the location of the pregnancy (whether or not it is located in the uterus). These are highly recommended to protect your health.

We also offer appointments where you can ask questions about what your options are, Florida’s current laws, or any questions around the pregnancy process. We are here to help, so contact us today!