The near-total abortion ban in Texas has severely impacted the most vulnerable segments of the population. In 2023, at least 100 minors had to travel out of state to terminate a pregnancy, including six girls aged 11. This marks an increase almost nine times higher than five years ago and highlights the dramatic consequences of a law that makes no exceptions, even in cases of fetal abnormalities, rape, or incest.
According to doctors, young girls face higher health risks than adult women during pregnancy, including complications such as premature birth or preeclampsia, a severe condition that causes high blood pressure and even death. Experts emphasize that while an adolescent’s body can technically go successfully through childbirth, some may suffer permanent fertility damage or even lose their lives.
Mihaela Plesa a democratic state lawmakers has pointed out that behind these numbers lie stories of suffering and trauma, affecting not only economically disadvantaged areas. The total number of Texas minors who have had access to abortion has drastically decreased. Before the ban, between 1,000 and 1,400 adolescents underwent the procedure each year. However, these figures may be underestimated, as information about out-of-state abortions is not always provided.
The rigidity of the law has led some Republican leaders to only discuss the interpretation of exceptions for medical emergencies, without considering a review of the restrictions for minors, including victims of sexual violence.
Meanwhile, the cost for girls seeking assistance outside the state has risen. Access to abortion in other locations is increasingly difficult due to rising demand and the need to cover high expenses for travel and procedures. While the average cost used to range from $700 to $1,500, it can now reach up to $3,000.
Adolescent girls seeking help often live in terror: they fear of getting into trouble, involving their families, or not knowing who to turn to. The consequences of the law extend beyond minors: some conservative states are trying to reduce transparency regarding abortion data, while doctors performing terminations are consistently involved in legal battles and threats. This makes it even harder to get a clear picture of the situation and amplifies the risk that the problem remains in the shadows, without adequate political responses.
