Crisis Pregnancy Centers: An Inherently Unjust Limitation to Reproductive Rights

Am J Law Med. 2022 Jul;48(2-3):275-285. doi: 10.1017/amj.2022.28.

Abstract

Abortion, though afforded certain legal protections, can be challenging to access in many areas of the United States, a problem exacerbated by the presence of Crisis Pregnancy Centers (CPCs). CPCs present themselves as clinics that provide a full spectrum of free pregnancy consultation services, but in fact are pro-life, anti-abortion organizations.1 From the outside, CPCs appear to be neutral health and welfare establishments, leading women *to believe they will receive unbiased guidance based on their best interests. In reality, CPCs recruit unsuspecting women into their facilities to deter them from accessing abortions, promoting only two options: parenthood or adoption.2 Women are lured into CPCs with the promise of free services which range from medical care to clothing and other items. At its most basic level, these deceptive practices violate the autonomy of women seeking reproductive care, perpetuating unjust limitation of access to quality medical care.

MeSH terms

  • Abortion, Induced*
  • Abortion, Legal
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Reproductive Rights*
  • United States