Accessing Reproductive Healthcare During Covid-19, by Amy Woehling

Written by Amy Woehling

Accessing the same level of reproductive care you may have had prior to the COVID-19 pandemic has been challenging for many communities, especially communities that are regularly disenfranchised. People are wary to take public transportation, schools and other essential childcare services are closed, and supplies and staff are being redirected to other hospital units. Beyond that, conservative groups and policymakers are using the pandemic to reassert attacks on reproductive health care altogether. Lawmakers in Alabama, Ohio, Oklahoma and Texas, tried to block all abortion procedures by deeming them “medically unnecessary”. This has disrupted how and where we access essential care.

However, there are many resources and guidelines you can use to ensure your reproductive health does not suffer during these uncertain times:

First, call your health clinic.

Even though healthcare facilities are reserving more and more services for COVID-19 related issues, reproductive health is an essential need and right. Call your local clinic to see what is still available.

Where else can I go?

Planned Parenthood has put together this extremely useful FAQ’s to assist you in figuring out everything from how to get your birth control to where you can schedule an abortion.

Telehealth.

Many clinics and doctor offices are offering “telehealth” services. Telehealth refers to health care delivered via communication technologies like video or phone conferencing. Before heading into a clinic, reach out to see what reproductive care they can provide via telehealth services. 

“You are your safest sex partner.” But still…

New York City Health Department has got you covered with a quick fact sheet on practicing “safe sex” during COVID-19.

Anything else?

The Reproductive Health Access Project has worked to compile a massive list of resources, websites and information to keep reproductive health care available to all. Check out their list!