Wed Sep 25 09:19:48 UTC 2024: ## Post-Roe, Women Face Increased Criminalization of Pregnancy: Study

**A new study reveals a disturbing trend: women are being charged with pregnancy-related crimes at an unprecedented rate since the overturning of Roe v. Wade.**

According to a report by Pregnancy Justice, at least 210 women across the US were charged with such crimes in the year following the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision. This is the highest number recorded in any 12-month period since 1973.

The study found that while most women were not accused of violating abortion bans directly, they were charged with child abuse, neglect, or endangerment, with the fetus listed as the victim. Many of these charges stemmed from accusations of substance use during pregnancy, often without proof of harm to the baby or fetus.

One shocking case involved a woman charged with homicide after delivering a stillborn baby at home. The woman was trying to make funeral arrangements when the funeral home alerted authorities.

The study highlights the growing fear among women who are pregnant or experiencing pregnancy loss. **”It’s an environment where pregnancy loss is potentially criminally suspect,”** said Lourdes Rivera, president of Pregnancy Justice.

The fear is compounded by the lack of clear guidance and exceptions in many states with abortion bans. While some states allow exceptions for women who self-manage abortions, women still face the threat of prosecution for other pregnancy-related crimes.

The study found a significant concentration of these cases in Alabama (104), Oklahoma (68), and South Carolina (10). These states have high courts that have issued opinions recognizing fetuses as having the rights of people.

**”We really need to separate healthcare from punishment,”** said Rivera. **”This just has tragic endings and does not properly address the problem. It creates more problems.”**

The study raises serious concerns about the criminalization of pregnancy and the potential for women to be unjustly punished for medical decisions or complications. It emphasizes the need for a more nuanced and humane approach to pregnancy and childbirth in a post-Roe world.

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