In June 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court revoked the constitutional right to abortion Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organizationfall over Roe v. Wade. Since then, many states have introduced or enforced restrictive abortion bans. Research has shown the far-reaching and long-lasting consequences of this decision on public health, sexual and reproductive rights and overall well-being.
Dobbs did not happen in a vacuum. It has profoundly reshaped the healthcare landscape, going far beyond immediate access to abortion. Three years later, we now see clearer evidence of its serious impact on access to healthcare, mental health and sexual and reproductive health, impacting sexual health professionals.
In this blog we discuss some of the emerging effects of this groundbreaking decision.
Overview of abortion in the US:
The legal landscape is constantly changing, and Abortion laws vary from state to state. Here’s where things currently stand:
Banned with limited exceptions*: 41 states
Banned gestational age (based on length of time): 29 states
Total abortion ban: 12 states
No pregnancy restrictions: 9 states + Washington, DC
For a state-by-state overview, see Interactive map of Guttmacher.
*It is important to note that “limited exceptions” are often limited and difficult to access. Earlier called gapsThese laws appear more flexible than they often actually are.
Despite these restrictions, abortion rates have actually increased. By 2023, More than 1 million abortions were reported, an increase of 11% compared to 2020. Banning abortion does not stop people from seeking help. It only makes access more difficult, expensive and unequal.
Limited access to abortion in the US
Since Dobbsdozens of clinics have closed their doors. Within 100 days of the Dobbs decision 66 clinics in 15 states stopped offering abortion services. Many others have closed, even in states where abortion is technically legal, largely due to budget cuts, Medicaid restrictions and political pressure.
The consequences are major:
Patients travel further, sometimes across multiple states, for care. Nearly 1 in 5 abortion patients will leave their home state by 2023compared to 1 in 10 just three years earlier.
Abortions cost money and these additional barriers only add to that.
Low-income communities, rural areas and marginalized communities are hit the hardest.
And this is not just an American issue. Because U.S. policy is often seen as a signal for global reproductive rights, restrictive shifts here could have international consequences, such as recent government threats to destroy millions of dollars worth of contraceptives intended for low-income countries.
Mental health implications
The consequences for mental health care are real and increasing. A number of peer-reviewed studies have illustrated the negative effects of the Dobbs decision.
Providers are also feeling the pressure. Many report moral distressburnout, and fear of criminalization. For sexual health professionals, this means caring for patients under extreme stress while managing your own.
Abortion in the US: Implications for sexual and reproductive health
Abortion restrictions have more consequences than abortion:
Self-managed abortion on the rise: Between January 2022 and mid-2023 the percentage of women who have ever tried this increased from 2.4% to 3.3%. Some bought pills onlineOthers used alcohol, herbs or other substances and others relied on more dangerous physical methods (hitting themselves).
Access to contraception is unequal: Confusing laws and funding gaps make family planning services more difficult to navigate, with marginalized populations hit hardest.
Sexual decision-making is changing. When reproductive rights are uncertain, patients can change their sexual behavior, delay care, or avoid healthcare systems altogether.
These disruptions have long-term consequences for autonomy, safety, and health equity.
What this means for sexual health professionals
For those of us who work in sexual health: Dobbs has changed the ground beneath our feet.
Research shows that they clearly exist gaps in the training of clinical and counseling psychology trainees in the field of sexual and reproductive health (SRH). Topics such as contraception, safer sex practices, sexuality, and sexual issues in relationships are often discussed in clinical work, but mAll providers reported limited training. These gaps in education can harm clients and reinforce stigma and negative sexual beliefs.
This is where sexual health professionals step in. The role is evolving and more important than ever:
Guiding patients is more difficult: Laws and research change quickly. Staying informed is critical while still helping patients make safe, informed choices.
The stakes are higher: Know your state’s abortion laws and federal policies to both guide patients and protect yourself.
Privacy is shifting. Health data and confidentiality requirements surrounding abortion care are evolving. Communicate any limits to confidentiality with customers.
Familiarize yourself with guidelines: The privacy of health data has also changed. Understand any requirements from you and communicate any limits to confidentiality regarding abortion care
Reflect on your knowledge. Seek out additional resources and training if necessary. Programs like SHA’s certification courses can build confidence and skills.
The demand is growing. Patients carry more stress, anxiety and trauma. They need clarity, compassion and support more than ever.
To be an advocate: In addition to clinical work, professionals are called to speak up, share accurate information, and fight for resources.
The weight is heavy, but the role is critical. Sexual health professionals are not just providers; they are educators, advocates, and trusted resources in a changing landscape.
Conclusion
Three years later Dobbsone truth is clear: abortions will always happen. The real question is whether they will be safe, accessible and equitable.
This decision changed the reality of sexual and reproductive health in the US, and the ripple effects will be felt for decades to come. For sexual health professionals, this is both a challenge and a call to action; it is up to us to support patients, push for justice, and advocate for accessible and equitable sexual and reproductive health care.
Additional Resources
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