The Abortion Landscape in Georgia

SisterLove

January 22, 2021

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4 min

Is Abortion Still Legal in Georgia?

Yes, abortion is still legal in Georgia. However, the landscape for accessing abortion in the state is difficult due to legal barriers in place. With the recent placement of Amy Coney Barrett on the Supreme Court, abortion rights and access to healthcare are under attack.

What are the Potential Challenges to Accessing Abortion in Georgia?

For young people, accessing abortion in Georgia may be even more challenging due to restrictions and barriers in place. These include waiting periods, ultrasound requirements, and physician admittance requirements. These barriers are considered legal as long as they do not constitute an "undue burden" on the individual seeking an abortion.

Types of Abortion

There are three types of abortions typically performed in the United States: medical abortion, surgical abortion, and induction of labor abortion. Medical abortion involves taking two different "abortion pills" to terminate a pregnancy. Surgical abortion involves a procedure to remove fetal tissue from the uterus. Induction of labor abortion involves inducing labor to deliver an intact fetus.

Medical Abortion

A medical abortion is similar to a miscarriage and is typically performed within the first trimester of pregnancy. It involves taking medication, usually under the care of a healthcare provider, to stop the pregnancy from continuing to grow.

Surgical Abortion

Surgical abortion can be performed in three different ways: dilation and aspiration (D&A), dilation and curettage (D&C), and dilation and evacuation (D&E). These procedures are generally safe, but there are risks associated with any surgery.

D&A

Dilation and aspiration is typically performed in the first trimester of pregnancy and involves using a syringe or machine to apply suction to remove tissue from the uterus.

D&C

Dilation and curettage is a surgical procedure that removes fetal tissue from inside the uterus. It may cause cramping and irregular bleeding afterwards.

D&E

Dilation and evacuation is a safe form of abortion performed during the second trimester of pregnancy. It can be done on an outpatient basis.

Induction of Labor Abortion

Induction of labor abortion involves inducing labor to deliver an intact fetus. This type of abortion is often chosen for cultural reasons, such as wanting an intact fetus for funeral or cultural practices.

Is Abortion Still Legal in Georgia?

Yes, technically abortion is still legal in every state in the United States. However, the political climate in Georgia surrounding the issue of abortion is hostile. Governor Kemp signed a "fetal heartbeat" bill into law, which would ban abortion as early as six weeks. This law is currently being challenged in court.

Potential Challenges to Accessing Abortion in Georgia: SisterSong v. Kemp

SisterSong v. Kemp is a court case currently before the courts in Georgia. The case involves plaintiffs representing abortion providers, healthcare practitioners, their patients, and organizations advocating for reproductive justice. They are suing the Governor for passing a bill that would ban almost all abortions in the state of Georgia. This bill is currently being challenged in court.

Amy Coney Barrett's Confirmation to the Supreme Court

With the recent confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court, the court now has a conservative supermajority. This could have significant implications for abortion rights and access to healthcare in the future. Many anti-choice organizations and activists are hoping to bring a case before the court to challenge and potentially overturn Roe v. Wade.

Georgia Access to Medical Abortion (GAMA) Phase 1 Newsletter

The Georgia Access to Medical Abortion (GAMA) program aims to increase access to medical abortion in the state. Their Phase 1 newsletter provides updates on their progress and efforts.