S2 Ep 14: Increasing Access to Safe, Affordable, and Compassionate Abortion Care with Dr. Nikia Grayson and Dr. Melissa Madera (Part 1)

Access to abortion care in the US is increasingly out of reach, thanks to restrictive state laws that target people seeking abortions and their healthcare providers. These barriers to access perpetuate reproductive health inequities, and adolescents, BIPOC, those with lower incomes, and those who have to travel to receive care often face the disproportionate effects of these restrictions. In this two-part series on P.S. Blossom, we are joined by reproductive-justice-informed midwife Dr. Nikia Grayson and Dr. Melissa Madera (a.k.a. The Abortion Diarist) to discuss the crucial importance of access to quality abortion care for all people, regardless of age, race, or class. Dr. Grayson and Dr. Madera walk us through the current state of abortion access in the US, the progress that needs to be made, and what they are doing to help people access the sexual and reproductive healthcare they need. We also take a look at the importance of creating life-affirming communities for those who have had abortions, resources that should be available to patients both pre- and post-procedure, how we can best support young people seeking abortions, and more. Be sure to tune in for a candid and informative discussion about increasing access to safe, affordable, and compassionate abortion care!

Key Points From This Episode:

• An overview of the important work that Dr. Grayson and Dr. Madera are doing.

• Religious attitudes about sex and abortion that our guests were exposed to growing up.

• Why it’s important to talk about sexual health, bodily autonomy, consent, and pleasure.

• Dr. Grayson offers insight into the different types of abortion procedures available.

• Some of the physical, mental, and emotional effects of having an abortion.

• The value of honoring every experience of abortion and creating life-affirming communities.

• Resources that should be offered to abortion patients (including compassion).

• Access to abortion care for minors who aren’t able to garner parental consent.

• Details about payment, insurance coverage, and more.

• Information that Dr. Madera wishes she had access to when she had an abortion at 17.

• A look at the impact of abortion on family members and others.

• The kinds of support that young people need when seeking an abortion.

• Everything you need to know about abortion later in pregnancy.

• Myths, misinformation, and why Dr. Madera believes technology is a double-edged sword.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Dr. Nikia Grayson on LinkedIn

Dr. Nikia Grayson on Twitter

Dr. Nikia Grayson on Instagram

Dr. Melissa Madera

Dr. Melissa Madera on Twitter

Dr. Melissa Madera on Instagram

Project SANA

Choix Clinic

The Abortion Diary

The Abortion Diary Podcast

Rhia Ventures

P.S. Blossom on Instagram