People all over the United States, including Texas, are trying to understand the implications of the June court ruling that struck down Roe v. Wade.
Some sources are claiming this will seriously setback women’s healthcare by decades, while others who are facing an unplanned pregnancy are worried about how this will affect their options.
If you are trying to learn about your options or are just trying to discern what is currently legal within the state of Texas, you are not alone.
Read the rest of this article to understand the significance of Roe being overturned, what this means for the state of Texas, and what your options are if you are considering an abortion.
What Is Roe V. Wade?
Ruled in 1973, Roe guaranteed that the right to an abortion was included in the “right to privacy” clause in the United States Constitution. The reasoning was that a woman’s ability to choose an affair was included in her right to privacy.
This protected abortion in the United Station for almost 50 years.
What Does It Mean That Roe Was Overturned?
When this decision was reviewed in the recent Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, it was decided that there was not enough credibility or historical precedent to substantiate this ruling, so it was overturned.
When it was overturned, this means that the ability to protect or restrict abortion access is determined by each state legislature.
What Are The Current Abortion Laws In Texas?
Some states already had laws restricting or protecting abortions. Some states knew that Roe might be overturned one day and had “trigger” laws ready to go in case this ever happened.
Texas already had limitations on abortion (banning abortions later than 6 weeks). Now all abortions in Texas are banned unless the mother’s life is endangered.
There is no law that restricts women from receiving medical attention related to her pregnancy (this includes high-risk pregnancies, miscarriages, etc.).
What Are My Options Now?
If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy and are trying to figure out what is the best option for you, we are here to inform and empower you to make a decision with confidence.
At the Pregnancy Help Center of West Houston, we offer no-cost pregnancy services such as limited ultrasounds. This can verify the health and age of the pregnancy (information that is critical as you consider your options).
We also offer complimentary consultations where we can provide medically accurate information about your pregnancy and give you a safe space to ask about your options. Contact us today!