Apps Tracking Menstrual Cycle Data

Since the Supreme Court is on track to overturning Roe v. Wade, the landmark decision that protects a women’s right to choose to get an abortion by making it a constitutional right, tensions between the government and citizens have spiked. If the Supreme Court successfully overturns Roe v. Wade, then at least 26 states will likely ban abortions, with some states having “trigger laws” that would automatically ban abortions.

In the wake of this news, there are concerns about data being used from period tracking apps in order to punish anyone looking to get an abortion. Proof of a missed cycle through these apps may be used as evidence to show a possible pregnancy and eventually, a possible abortion.

Two major tracking apps are Flo and Clue, both of which have gone under fire for collecting data.

It’s not just period apps too; your location can be tracked as well, which is especially harmful if you are in a clinic that offers abortion services.

Individuals could purchase datasets from the companies that hold all of these types of information, and report others. In Texas, you can receive a $10,000 payment for successfully suing anyone who provides abortions.

People who would have access to this information include private corporations, the law enforcement, and/or the government.

Actual Miscarriages Could Be Overlooked

Any pregnancy that does not result in a birth would lead to suspicions of a self-induced abortion. If a miscarriage was present, but doctors believe it was a self-induced abortion, then women would be jailed for having a miscarriage. This would lead to external consequences because if they become felons, they lose their right to vote.

Miscarriages and abortions are treated similarly. If a pregnancy results in an ectopic pregnancy, or if a fetus dies simply before birth, surgical removal would be needed. This is considered an abortion, and a full ban would have dire outcomes to the health of these women.

Contraceptives May Be Banned

Following a possible overturning of Roe v. Wade, lawmakers in Idaho are considering restricting some forms of contraception. Hearings in the Idaho House would be supported by a Republican leader, Brent Crane, regarding the ban of birth control pills and plan B pills. He has stated that he does not know where he stands for IUDs. Crane claims that he would not generally support banning contraceptives, but says that certain forms of them (like pills) have safety concerns and would personally be ready to hold hearings about them.

However, other states that would ban abortion could also follow track on banning contraceptives.

Protests

Protests have erupted in major cities like Portland, Seattle, Denver, Boston, Houston, and St. Louis in support of Roe v. Wade (with counter protests in advocacy for the ban). There have been protests outside Justices’ homes as well – which has sparked a debate on the legality of that. Senator Tom Cotton has pushed to arrest and prosecute protesters outside of justices’ homes by the Justice Department, but some GOP senators say that is too far.