Abortion bans don’t just impact those seeking abortions. In Iowa and other states with restrictive reproductive laws, we’re seeing ripple effects across the entire healthcare system, especially in OB-GYN care. From a surge in patients seeking sterilization to a drop in residency applications from future providers, the consequences are far-reaching and urgent.

A Surge in Elective Sterilization‍

Since Roe v. Wade was overturned, more people are requesting permanent forms of birth control, not necessarily because they want it now, but because they’re afraid they won’t have the option later.

In one powerful example reported by Iowa Public Radio, an Iowa OB-GYN said she received over 200 patient messages in a single weekend asking about sterilization options, a sharp spike compared to the usual one or two inquiries.

Patients are making irreversible choices out of fear. And that fear stems from uncertainty about what care will still be legal tomorrow.

Fewer OB-GYNs Are Training in Iowa‍

The next generation of doctors is also responding to these legal shifts. According to AP News, states with abortion bans saw a 6.7% drop in OB-GYN residency applicants between 2023 and 2024.

Why? Because future OB-GYNs want comprehensive training, including how to manage miscarriage, ectopic pregnancies, and abortion care. When laws limit that training, medical students look elsewhere.

This puts rural states like Iowa in an even tougher position. We already rank among the lowest in the nation for OB-GYN access. If we can’t train and retain new providers, the gap in care will only grow wider.

The Bigger Picture: Autonomy, Access, and Trust‍

These trends tell a clear story: when access is restricted, consequences spread far beyond abortion alone. Patients lose options. Doctors leave. Clinics close. And entire communities feel the loss.

We must protect access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare, not just for today’s patients, but for the future of medicine in Iowa.