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Restrictive abortion laws in Northern Ireland affect women's health, study shows

Research from the LBJ School of Public Affairs found that Northern Ireland's strict abortion laws have negative consequences for women's physical and mental well-being. Women often face barriers to accessing care, including fear of prosecution, lack of clarity on healthcare provider duties, and challenges in arranging travel or childcare.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalBMJ Sexual & Reproductive Health·DateOct 19, 2018

Study suggests bias for sons remains among second-generation women of South Asian descent

Researchers found a skewed ratio of male-to-female babies born to second-generation mothers of South Asian descent, similar to earlier findings in first-generation mothers. However, this study suggests that second-generation mothers may be less likely to undergo abortion, leading to the persistence of son preference.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateJun 21, 2018

Women's basic rights under threat from Trump gag rule, warn experts

Experts warn that a proposed Trump gag rule will limit federal funding for abortion counselling and provision, posing a threat to women's basic rights. The rule would prohibit clinics or programs receiving federal family planning funds from providing abortions, referring women to places that do, or counselling them on the option.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJun 13, 2018

Don't force women to risk death, injury by having a baby

Researchers at Queensland University of Technology suggest that morality should be removed from the equation when it comes to abortion laws, recognizing pregnancy as a risk for any woman. They argue that women should have the legal right to reject this risk and that criminal sanctions against abortion are unjustified.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalAustralian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology·DateMay 24, 2018

Medical abortions obtained through online telemedicine shown to be effective, safe

A new study published in The BMJ found that medical abortions conducted through online telemedicine were successful in 95% of cases, with low rates of complications. Women were able to identify symptoms of potential issues and seek medical attention when needed, suggesting a safe and effective option for those seeking abortion access.

Trump's policy changes put women's sexual and reproductive health at risk, argues expert

The Trump administration's policy changes put women's access to effective contraception and abortion care at risk. Professor Daniel Grossman warns that the re-imposition of the Mexico City Policy and proposed legislation could severely limit access to reproductive healthcare services, particularly for low-income individuals.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care·DateMar 2, 2017

Increased complications after 2011 Ohio abortion law

A study found that medication abortions in Ohio required more interventions, side effects, and higher costs after an outdated protocol was implemented. Women who had abortions post-law period were three times more likely to need additional interventions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 30, 2016

More males born to Indian-born women in Canada who already have daughters

A large study in CMAJ found that Indian-born women living in Ontario, Canada, who already have two daughters are more likely to have a boy. The likelihood of male births increases if women had an induced abortion before the birth. Birth ratios fell within natural ranges for Canadian-born and immigrant women from most other countries.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 11, 2016

New in the Hastings Center Report

The Hastings Center Report explores bioethics' racial dimensions, including medical racism and conscientious care. The article discusses approaches to mitigate the effects of laws that raise moral conflicts, such as abortion regulations in North Carolina. Two 'Other Voices' essays also examine the role of conscience in healthcare.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateApr 5, 2016

Canada must respect physician objectors who do not wish to refer patients for assisted death: Right to die

Physicians' conscientious objections to assisted death will be respected in Canada, with a system created to allow patients to receive medical support for dying while vulnerable patients and caregivers fight their doctors for rights. A direct service will be offered to patients, and physicians informed of the service.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 23, 2015

Women in developed world still face many barriers to early abortion

Despite fewer legal barriers, women in developed countries still face significant inequities in abortion access due to inadequate service provision, moral opposition, and inadequate training. The review suggests improving access by increasing training, boosting service options, and making services more affordable or free.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care·DateJun 25, 2015