Expanding Access to Quality Reproductive Health Care After the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization Decision.

Abstract

Recent studies have shown an increase in the rates of sterilization procedures among women of childbearing age after the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision in June 2022. This trend may extend to the use of other forms of birth control, such as oral contraceptive pills and long-acting reversible contraception. Now, more than ever, broad access to contraception is imperative to reduce unintended pregnancies, protect patient autonomy, and ensure health equity. In this clinical perspective, we review recent literature related to contraception use, health care disparities, and the physician and trainee response to the Dobbs decision. We aim to integrate a multitude of factors that tend to be analyzed individually, exploring possible solutions to problems that arise or are exacerbated in the context of abortion bans. Policy- and clinic-level measures, such as expanding access to contraception and allotting additional appointment time for patient education, must be taken to prevent worsening health outcomes for patients, especially for individuals living in abortion-restrictive states.