The Rising Risks of Pregnancy in a Post-Roe America
The landscape of women’s healthcare in the United States is undergoing a dangerous shift. As Ali Velshi reported on February 18, 2026, it is becoming increasingly perilous to be a woman in America, particularly when facing chronic illness or pregnancy. More than 76% of U.S. Adults – 194 million people – live with at least one chronic condition, and women experience these at higher rates than men. While medical advancements offer solutions, access to potentially life-saving care is being denied simply because of pregnancy.
The Intersection of Pregnancy and Pre-Existing Conditions
Pregnancy doesn’t diminish medical risk; it often amplifies it. Pre-existing health issues can worsen during pregnancy, demanding more medical attention, not less. Still, a chilling effect is taking hold within the medical community. Doctors, fearing legal repercussions in states with strict anti-abortion laws, are hesitant to provide necessary care.
In post-Roe America and especially in states with strict anti-abortion laws on the books, doctors are fearful of running afoul of the law.
A Case Study: Ciji Graham’s Story
The story of Ciji Graham, a 34-year-classic police officer and mother in North Carolina, vividly illustrates this growing crisis. At six weeks pregnant, Graham sought medical attention for chest pains and heart palpitations. Her heart rate reached a dangerously high 192 beats per minute – significantly above the normal resting rate of 60-100 bpm. Having previously undergone a cardioversion procedure to restore a normal heartbeat, she expected similar treatment. Instead, she was sent home.
Graham’s doctor declined to intervene, citing concerns about potentially harming the pregnancy. This occurred despite the fact that Graham was not seeking an abortion, but rather treatment for a life-threatening heart condition. Medical specialists, as reported by ProPublica, have confirmed that cardioversion is generally considered safe during pregnancy and should have been administered.
The Broader Implications: Criminalization of Healthcare
Graham’s case isn’t isolated. It’s a symptom of a larger trend where healthcare decisions are being influenced by legal anxieties surrounding abortion access. This criminalization of women’s healthcare extends beyond abortion itself, impacting treatment for a wide range of conditions. The fear of prosecution is forcing doctors to prioritize potential legal consequences over the immediate health and safety of their patients.
Historical Context: Fighting for Bodily Autonomy
The current situation echoes a long history of struggles for bodily autonomy and equal rights. As Ali Velshi noted in a January 26, 2026 discussion, the fight for freedoms – including voting, labor, and civil rights – has consistently been met with resistance and, at times, state violence. From the women’s suffrage movement to the Civil Rights Movement, progress has always required sustained effort and a willingness to challenge established power structures.
Looking Ahead: Potential Future Trends
Several trends are likely to emerge and intensify in the coming years:
- Increased Medical Tourism: Women in restrictive states may increasingly travel to states with more permissive laws to access necessary healthcare, creating disparities in access based on geographic location and socioeconomic status.
- Rise in Maternal Mortality Rates: The denial of timely and appropriate medical care during pregnancy is expected to contribute to a rise in maternal mortality rates, particularly among women of color and those with pre-existing conditions.
- Legal Challenges and Uncertainty: Ongoing legal battles surrounding abortion access and related healthcare decisions will continue to create uncertainty for both patients and providers.
- Expansion of Telehealth: Telehealth may offer a limited solution for some women, providing access to consultations and medication, but it cannot replace in-person medical care for all conditions.
- Advocacy and Political Activism: Increased advocacy and political activism from women’s rights organizations and healthcare professionals will be crucial in pushing for policy changes and protecting access to care.
FAQ
Q: Is cardioversion truly safe during pregnancy?
A: According to numerous medical specialists, cardioversion is generally considered safe during pregnancy and can be life-saving for patients experiencing dangerous heart rhythm issues.
Q: What is driving the fear among doctors?
A: Strict anti-abortion laws in some states are creating a climate of fear, where doctors worry about facing legal prosecution for providing care that could potentially be interpreted as impacting a pregnancy.
Q: What can be done to address this issue?
A: Protecting and expanding access to abortion care, advocating for policies that safeguard reproductive healthcare, and challenging restrictive laws are essential steps.
Did you know? The top three leading causes of death for women in the U.S. Are heart disease, cancer, and stroke.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about the laws in your state and advocate for policies that protect women’s healthcare access.
What we have is a critical moment for women’s health in America. The stories like Ciji Graham’s are a stark warning of the dangers of restricting access to care. Continued vigilance, advocacy, and a commitment to protecting reproductive rights are essential to ensuring a future where all women have access to the healthcare they need and deserve.
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