“Unsafe abortion remains a leading cause of maternal mortality, and it is entirely preventable,” emphasizes Dr. Anu Kumar, head of Ipas, which works in 23 countries to expand access to abortion and contraception. Yet, the rollback of abortion rights in the U.S. and globally poses a growing threat to millions of women and girls.
Ipas has helped over 640,000 people access abortions and provided contraceptives to over 1.5 million. However, Kumar warns that restrictive measures, particularly under Trump’s presidency and conservative influence, undermine reproductive health efforts worldwide.
In the U.S., abortion access has drastically diminished since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022. Fourteen states, including Texas, have nearly banned abortion, with others severely limiting it. Health professionals face harsh penalties, leading to fear and delays in critical care.
In one tragic case, Texan Porsha Ngumezi died after doctors hesitated to perform a standard miscarriage procedure, fearing legal repercussions. Kumar also highlights rising demand for abortion pills in the U.S. as women anticipate further restrictions.
Globally, Kumar warns that Trump’s anti-abortion stance emboldens conservative governments to tighten restrictions, jeopardizing lives. “We know how to prevent unsafe abortions. We just need the will to act.”