Abortion Rights

Yumnah Shoaib, Editor-in-Chief

Recent developments surrounding the Roe V. Wade case have raised concerns regarding women’s abortion rights. As a result of a bill signed by California Governor Gavin Newsom, abortion was deemed constitutional, “We know that states like Missouri are already targeting women seeking abortions in states like California where abortion remains legal. This legislation seeks to protect women and care providers from civil liability imposed by other states, and sends a clear message that California will continue to be a safe haven for all women seeking reproductive health care services in our state.” During the first trimester (0-13 weeks of pregnancy), women have two options: medication abortion or surgical abortion. Later in the pregnancy, when 24 weeks pregnant, induction abortion can be performed. Subsequently, there is no strict cut-off date as to when a pregnancy may be terminated. Abortion services cannot be performed once the fetus becomes viable. By definition, a fetus becomes viable if it is likely to sustain survival outside of the uterus, without extraordinary medical measures. However,  doctors determine whether a given fetus is viable on a case-by-case basis. In terms of minor rights, California law provides that minors do not need parental consent to get an abortion. For more information, visit the Royal High School teen crisis resources page or the school nurse’s office.