Thread by @DrDGrossman

A new study from @TheLBJSchool shows patients are seeking out the medication abortion due to state legal restrictions, challenges in getting to a clinic, and personal preference. Patients are self-managing their abortions out of both necessity and choice. onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.136…

The study notes restrictive state laws like mandatory waiting periods and ultrasound requirements, and high cost of clinical care were barriers to accessing an abortion.

Patients also sought medication abortions online to avoid traveling long distances to clinics, which can cost a lot, not having a way to a clinic, and worried about clinic protesters. Patients also mentioned difficultly finding information in navigating those barriers.

However, some patients interviewed in the study preferred self-managing their abortion because it was more convenient, and they had the privacy and the comfort and familiarity of one’s own home.
onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.136…

Our study in Peru found that patients can safely self-manage their abortion with information from a health provider. As access dwindles, more patients may choose this option, out of necessity, privacy, and comfort.
ibisreproductivehealth.org/news/new-resea…

I know the idea of self-managing an abortion brings up the idea of a pre-Roe coathanger, however medical technologies have changed since then. Medication abortion is extremely safe and available, however not over-the-counter due to government restrictions. theguardian.com/commentisfree/…

We should be working to ensure patients are able to access abortion care in the method that they feels best for them and their situation — whether it is with a clinician in a clinic or at home.