We heard your weekends were getting a little lonely without us. So we'll be coming to you every Saturday to break down the biggest talker of the week and give you the context you need to be part of the conversation. Plus, our recs to get the most out of your downtime.
Everyone and their mother...is thinking about Roe v. Wade this week. And what its expected reversal might mean for their reproductive rights. And the health of moms (and moms-to-be) across the country.
The Story
On the second Sunday of May, Americans celebrate moms and mom figures. But this year, motherhood, and the choice to enter it, is landing differently. That's because earlier this week, the country found out that the right to an abortion could soon end. Some celebrated. Others swore to resist a return to the pre-Roe era. Including a week-long Mother's Day strike, which calls on those most impacted by the decision to stop interacting with the economy.
And which group is that?
It's the 1 in 4 women who will have an abortion. And the average person who has one looks something like this: She's in her 20s. She has some college education. And is already a mom. (Yes, you read that right.) While abortion and family have been pitted against each other in politics, in reality they go hand in hand. That's because abortions are a medical tool which keep moms and moms-to-be safe.
Tell me more.
The US already has the highest maternal death rate of any developed country. Overturning Roe could make that worse. Nearly half of OB-GYNs in the US may soon be working in the 26 states expected to ban abortion. But if they're not trained, or if they're out of practice, or if they're afraid to use abortion medicine or procedures (think: because they could be sued, or even charged with homicide), curable situations could turn life-threatening or deadly. Think, in the case of:
Miscarriages: About 1 in 4 pregnancies end in miscarriage and women's bodies don't always pass fetal tissue completely on their own. At that point, most American women are offered a pill or surgical procedure — essentially, an abortion. In places where abortion is heavily restricted or not performed, those options may not be available for weeks (if at all), resulting in serious health risks and trauma.
Ectopic pregnancies: These pregnancies are not viable since they occur outside the uterus and can be fatal for the mother. At the moment, no US state has banned or criminalized the procedures and drugs that treat ectopic pregnancies. But some state legislators (see: Missouri) have pushed for that, while others (see: Ohio) have invented fantasy procedures not known to science as a workaround.
Multiple pregnancy: The more fetuses a woman carries, the higher the risk for everyone involved. This can commonly happen during IVF. So doctors may recommend procedures that remove some fetuses (think: ones that are unviable or have severe health issues) so others — and the mother — can survive. Those reductions are already illegal under Texas's recent abortion ban, and more states may follow.
Domestic violence: The leading cause of death for pregnant and postpartum women in the US is homicide, according to one study. We'll say it again: homicide. And data suggests her partner is often responsible. For years, research has shown that partner violence gets worse during pregnancy. And for women in abusive relationships, being denied abortion may make it harder to leave — despite the very real dangers.
theSkimm
Women may want an abortion for a variety of reasons. And the right to get one is currently protected as long as Roe stands. But at the end of the day, the issue transcends politics. Abortion is a big part of modern medicine — used to help many women stay alive.
Editor's note: The info here applies to all people who might need abortions, but we sometimes use the words "mom," "women," and "motherhood" in this story.
Russia's Victory Day (May 9) commemorates defeating Nazi Germany in 1945. It usually goes unnoticed by the West, but this year, other countries will be watching closely. That's because some Western officials have warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin might use the occasion to escalate hostilities in Ukraine. Think: declaring war outright (so far, Russia hasn't), mass mobilization of troops, or increasing attacks in areas like Mariupol to gain full control. The Kremlin has dismissed the speculation as "nonsense." While others point out: 'We've heard that one before…'
Skimm Picks
1. An introduction to our newest series, Skimm Tested. Aka where we pick, prod, and review well-known items, then give 'em a report card. Making it easier for you to decide if ya wanna add to cart. First up: Mush ready-to-eat oats and the Loftie smart alarm clock. Read up.
3. Springtime accessories and workout gear to snag now. Everyone needs a good pair of sunglasses, obviously. Here are our faves under $100. If you're heading outside to exercise, we've got lightweight tops and leggings.
4. 20% off sitewide at Brooklinen. It's their biggest sale of the year and it ain't over yet. Before the weekend is over, snag some bedroom goods and save while doing so. Cheers.
*PS: This is a sponsored post.
Skimm More
More Skimm, more knowledge. Here's what else to check out…
Like ours, your work and personal calendars are probably hectic. So here are some events you should know about...
Mother's Day. Treat your mom, mom figures, or absolutely anyone you love to a thoughtful gift — for the holiday, or any day.
Our favorite comedy duo takes the show on the road in the second season of "Hacks."
Friday the 13th. Good luck!
PS: Want more events like this on your cal? theSkimm App gives you a heads-up on when everything from holidays to sports games to awards shows are going down. Download it here.
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Skimm'd by Rashaan Ayesh, Rasheeda Campbell, Xian Chiang-Waren, Melissa Goldberg, and Clem Robineau
