The Implications of Missouri Amendment 3 and Clinical Facts on Reproductive Health
The proposed Amendment 3 to the Missouri Constitution would go far beyond ensuring what its promotors call “the right to reproductive freedom.” Missouri voters will decide on Election Day, Nov. 5, whether to make the abortion amendment part of the state’s Constitution. Not only would it allow practically unrestricted access to elective abortion at any stage of pregnancy, it would override safeguards in Missouri law that help protect women from unsafe abortions.
Proposed Constitutional Changes and Safety Provisions
According to Jamie Morris, executive director and general counsel for the Missouri Catholic Conference, anything that could be construed as “interfering, denying or delaying” abortion in the state will be challenged under this amendment. He stated that “If these or any of the other safety measures are perceived as a delay or denial of an abortion, they are plainly unconstitutional under this amendment.” Among these provisions are:
- The requirement that only a medical doctor be allowed to perform abortions in the state.
- The requirement that parents of a minor be notified before she can have an abortion.
- The requirement that abortion clinics comply with the state’s health and safety standards for outpatient surgical centers.
- The requirement that clinics be located close enough to a hospital that a woman can get treatment if life-threatening complications arise.
Mr. Morris noted that it establishes that the government can’t infringe on someone’s right to an abortion up until viability of the preborn baby. Beyond that point, the abortion amendment says the state government can regulate but cannot prohibit abortion. Furthermore, the amendment would call into question whether a woman undergoing any sort of procedure pertaining to her reproductive system could seek damages if she or her baby is injured by that procedure.
Medical Safety and Research Findings
Regarding the safety of the procedure, abortions are very safe. Like any medical procedure or treatment, there are some risks, but the vast majority will not experience any problems. The research from the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology confirms that abortions do not have a negative impact on people’s ability to get pregnant. Additionally, the World Health Organization has published data showing there is no link between abortions and breast cancer, and no increased risk.
Common myths regarding reproductive health are addressed by medical data as follows:
| Topic | Research and Data Findings |
|---|---|
| Fertility | The fact that millions of people need multiple abortions reveals that abortions do not have a negative impact on people’s ability to get pregnant. |
| Breast Cancer | The World Health Organization shows there is no link and no increased risk. |
| Mental Health | There is no evidence that abortions cause depression; the most common feeling is relief. |
Impact on Long-term Well-being
The Turnaway Study — a landmark study by the University of California — found that five years after having an abortion, more than 95% of women said it was the right decision for them. Most women do not regret their decisions; they move on with their lives and are grateful they were able to access care. In contrast, the study also shows that people who are denied wanted abortions suffer many problems, including more anxiety, lower self-esteem, and less life satisfaction than women who are able to get abortions.