Do you have a question about reproductive freedom in Iowa? We've got you covered.
1. Is abortion legal in Iowa?
A.Is abortion legal in Iowa?
A.
Only in very limited circumstances. Abortions after embryonic electrical activity is detected are banned with very limited exceptions, including documented rape, incest, and the life of the woman. The embryonic electrical activity usually happens around six weeks of pregnancy, long before most people know they’re pregnant. This amounts to a near-total abortion ban.
2. How did this happen?
A.How did this happen?
A.
The Iowa Legislature passed and the Governor signed this near-total abortion ban into law in July 2023. It was temporarily blocked by the courts, but the Iowa Supreme Court recently ruled that the ban could take effect, which it did in July 2024.
3. What does this mean for Iowans?
A.What does this mean for Iowans?
A.
As we have seen in other states, extreme abortion bans like these endanger women’s health and lives. They also put physicians in jeopardy for following their best medical judgment to preserve the health and lives of their patients.
4. What resources are available?
A.What resources are available?
A.
Planned Parenthood North Central States, the Iowa Abortion Access Fund, and the Emma Goldman Clinic are working to connect Iowans who need abortions after six weeks to out-of-state resources and financial assistance. Check out their websites to learn more.
5. What can you do?
A.What can you do?
A.
- Sign up to volunteer with us. Click here.
- Spread the word. This ban is incredibly harmful and Iowans need to have truthful and accurate information about it.