Illegal Abortions
Prior to Roe vs. Wade, many women sought a way out of pregnancy through home remedies, expensive illegal third-party abortions, and dangerous illegal abortions. Most infamous of all methods--the coat-hanger abortion--has become a symbol of the pro-choice movement, reminding people that women will harm themselves if they lose the right to safe and legal abortion (Rosen, 2012). Deaths from unsafe abortions continue to be a significant problem in countries where abortion is illegal, however, a significant number of women continue to seek out illegal abortions in the United States.
In some states, laws restricting second and third trimester abortions have led to the arrest of several women under the charge of "feticide" (Goldberg, 2011).
Check out the story of Linn McCormick on npr: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=150312812
In some states, laws restricting second and third trimester abortions have led to the arrest of several women under the charge of "feticide" (Goldberg, 2011).
Check out the story of Linn McCormick on npr: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=150312812
Methods*
- Coat-Hanger Abortion, or induction by other foreign objects (often results in sepsis, or other complications)
- Medicinal: Misoprostol (ulcer medication)
- Home remedies: Carrot Seed Soup, Vitamin C, dried henna powder, or mutton marrow
- Physical exertion
- Abdominal massage
*None of these are guaranteed to work, and often result in birth defects and harm to the mother.