SRHR Access Under Fire: What’s at Stake in Trump’s Second Term
On a chilly November morning, Molly, a mother from California, stood with her non-binary child, Sammy, outside the Heritage Foundation in Washington. Their homemade sign read: “Bans Off Our Bodies.” Hundreds joined them, voicing fears of a second Trump administration’s impact on reproductive rights and LGBTQ+ equality. For Molly, the stakes were personal: “I’m worried about what this means for Sammy’s future and their right to live freely.”
Across the country in Florida, Mia Akins, a third-year university student, was celebrating Trump’s victory. As a member of Students for Life of America, she viewed the administration as an ally in opposing abortion. “We’re hopeful this term will strengthen protections for unborn children,” Mia shared.
These two narratives illustrate the deep divisions in America, particularly on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). Abortion access is at the heart of this divide, exacerbated by the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in 2022. This allowed states to decide abortion laws independently, leading to a patchwork of regulations across the country.
Experts warn of rising risks for women’s health in states imposing severe restrictions. According to the Guttmacher Institute, nearly 22 million women of reproductive age live in states with limited abortion access. For many, these laws complicate access to contraception and increase the risk of pregnancy-related mortality. The US already has one of the highest maternal mortality rates among developed nations, with Black women disproportionately affected.
The anti-abortion movement sees Trump’s administration as an opportunity to tighten federal oversight. Reagan Barklage of Students for Life hopes for strict regulations on abortion pills and the appointment of conservative judges to support these measures. However, critics argue such policies undermine women’s autonomy and worsen health disparities.
On the other hand, advocates like Molly highlight broader consequences for reproductive health care. Bans on abortion and limited access to contraception could lead to higher unintended pregnancies and financial strain on families. Meanwhile, young people like Sammy worry that LGBTQ+ rights may be eroded, further marginalising vulnerable groups.
As the political landscape shifts, America’s women stand on opposing sides, each grappling with the uncertain future of reproductive rights. The question remains: Can policies balance personal beliefs with equitable access to health care? For millions, the answer may define the next generation’s freedom and safety.
Source: Dhaka Tribune
Picture Credit: AFP/Deutsche Welle
