The Nation, a publication founded by abolitionists in 1865, continues its tradition of serving as a critical, independent, and progressive voice. In light of recent developments in reproductive health care, journalist Alice Miranda Ollstein brings attention to the broader effects of abortion bans in her new book, Side Effects: How Abortion Bans Impact Everyone’s Health, released by The New Press in October.
As Ollstein traveled across the United States, reporting on the consequences of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in 2022, she uncovered significant insights. Through her extensive interviews with patients, medical professionals, pharmacists, researchers, and others affected by the restrictions, Ollstein observed a troubling pattern. These legal changes were not only affecting reproductive health care, but they were also deteriorating the overall quality and accessibility of health services.
Her work highlights the interconnectedness of health care systems and how legislative measures concerning reproductive health have a ripple effect on the availability and quality of care for various health services across the nation.