Let’s have a real conversation.
You’ve probably seen the headlines, the tweets, the whispers in group chats. You’ve heard stories, maybe even lived through one of someone who couldn’t get the care they needed because of where they live, how much money they have, or what their insurance doesn’t cover.
If you’ve felt confused, anxious, or even powerless in the face of all the changes happening around reproductive health – you’re not alone.
As women, caretakers, healthcare providers, and decision-makers, we’re carrying a lot. And it’s okay to admit that it’s overwhelming. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to figure it out alone.
This article is the first in a three-part series where we’ll walk you through what’s changing, what it means for you, and how you can take control of your reproductive health in 2025 even in a shifting political landscape.
Let’s Start with What’s Going On
Since late 2024, reproductive health has been in the national spotlight again, and not in a good way.
If you’ve heard the term Project 2025 floating around, here’s what it means: a policy roadmap proposed by some lawmakers that includes dismantling federal protections for reproductive care. We’re talking about:
- Cutting Medicaid benefits for contraception and pregnancy-related services
- Removing publicly available information like ReproductiveRights.gov
- Limiting federal funding to clinics that provide birth control and STI testing
You might think, “That sounds extreme. Can that really happen?” But some of it already has. Protections that once supported military service members seeking reproductive healthcare have already been rolled back. And more changes are expected.
So…What Does That Mean for You?
Let’s say you’re a college student on your parents’ insurance. You go to your campus clinic for birth control or emergency contraception. Under current law, that care might be covered but under some proposals, it may not be.
Or maybe you’re a single mom using Medicaid to help cover annual well-woman exams and contraceptives. Budget cuts could mean reduced coverage or none at all making routine care feel out of reach.
And if you live in a state that already restricts abortion or emergency contraception access? Your options may become even more limited.
These aren’t just policy shifts. They’re personal. They affect real women with real needs right now.
You Still Have Rights—Let’s Be Clear on That
Even as some states tighten restrictions, federal laws still offer important protections, and it’s critical that you know them:
- EMTALA ensures you receive emergency care in hospitals, including for pregnancy-related complications.
- Title X provides access to low-cost or free reproductive care, regardless of insurance status.
- HIPAA protects your personal health information, including anything related to reproductive care.
If your state limits access to certain services, you still have legal grounds to receive care in specific situations. But knowledge is your greatest protection you have to know what’s available to you.
Step-by-Step: How to Understand Your State’s Policies
Let’s break this down together.
- Find out your state’s laws on birth control, abortion, and parental consent.
- Can you access these services locally?
- Are there waiting periods or travel restrictions?
- Check if your insurance will cover care out-of-state, in case you need to travel.
- Talk to your healthcare provider about your current options.
Don’t wait until it’s urgent—ask now about:- Prescription durations
- Preventive screenings
- What’s changing with insurance coverage
Example: A 19-year-old college student in Texas might need to travel to New Mexico for abortion care. But without knowing her rights, coverage limits, or nearby clinics, she could lose precious time figuring it out.
Where to Go for Trusted Information
There’s no shortage of opinions online but when it comes to your health, you need facts. Here are reputable, up-to-date resources that we recommend:
- Guttmacher Institute – Offers state-by-state legal guides on reproductive rights
- Planned Parenthood – Clinic locator, telehealth appointments, and education
- If/When/How Legal Helpline – Free, confidential legal help for abortion, miscarriage, or birth-related questions
Tip: Bookmark these on your phone or screenshot the numbers. When things get complicated, having access can make all the difference.
You Deserve a Reproductive Health Plan
Just like we keep a first-aid kit at home, you need a personal reproductive health plan. Not because you’re expecting the worst, but because being prepared gives you control.
Here’s how to get started:
- Schedule your next preventive visit or birth control refill
- Ask your provider what’s changing with your coverage
- Keep emergency contraception on hand just in case
- Talk to your friends or daughters about what they may need
- Save the links above. You may need them for yourself or someone you love
It is far better to be prepared and never need it than to need it and not have a plan.
This is part one of a three part series. Stay tuned for more.
