The film Dirty Dancing, often heralded as a cinematic masterpiece, recently marked its 40th anniversary, and I can confidently say I’ve viewed it at least as many times. While it’s famous for its iconic quotes (“Nobody puts Baby in a corner”) and the magnetic charm of Patrick Swayze, what resonates most deeply is its unflinching portrayal of the perils surrounding pre-Roe abortions.
The narrative follows Penny, a talented dancer at an upscale Catskills resort where Baby and her affluent family are vacationing. After a fleeting affair with the unscrupulous Robbie, Penny finds herself pregnant. The subsequent illegal abortion nearly costs her life, illustrating the grave dangers, injustices, and barbarities that characterized the era before Roe v. Wade. Screenwriter Eleanor Bergstein revealed to Glamour that the inclusion of this storyline faced serious pushback due to the contentious nature of abortion, yet she insisted on its presence.
Despite a significant decline in abortion rates, the current political climate shows a desire among certain lawmakers to curtail women’s reproductive rights at both federal and state levels. The looming threat of repealing Roe v. Wade would shift authority back to individual states, potentially leading to an uneven landscape. Some states might enact laws supporting a woman’s right to choose, while others could impose strict limitations or outright bans on safe abortion access. This disparity would force women to traverse extensive distances for necessary medical care—a privilege that many simply do not possess.
For those of us born after Roe was established, it’s vital to reflect on the dark history of women’s health prior to this landmark decision, so we can grasp the potential ramifications of its repeal in today’s context. Before the Supreme Court legalized abortion nationwide, states had the power to dictate abortion rights. As highlighted by Cosmopolitan, only four states had legalized abortion by 1970, with many imposing harsh restrictions even where it was permitted.
In a compelling video produced by The Scene, alongside the 1 in 3 Campaign, several women recount their harrowing pre-Roe abortion experiences. Each story, while unique, is equally chilling. For instance, Sarah, who experienced sexual assault in college, sought an abortion in 1968 from an unlicensed provider after being denied care at a hospital. The “doctor” failed to remove all tissue, resulting in a severe infection that nearly took her life.
Another woman, Emily, was just 16 when she underwent an abortion, describing the procedure as akin to being “scooped out like fruit.” The trauma didn’t end there; she was subjected to abuse by the abortionist during the process.
Dr. Michaelson, a medical intern in 1965, recounted witnessing three fatalities due to unsafe abortions in a brief span at a Brooklyn hospital. One patient suffered a ruptured uterus during a coat hanger abortion and succumbed to septic shock, while another mother died of tetanus following a botched procedure. The third woman, terrified of the stigma associated with abortion, bled to death after avoiding emergency care.
Even those fortunate enough to secure safe abortions faced unimaginable struggles. Jessica, whose father was a physician, managed to obtain a legitimate abortion appointment but had to conceal his identity for fear of repercussions.
The debate around abortion often raises the question of unborn rights. While discussions can become heated, the undeniable truth remains: pro-choice legislation and legal access to abortion save lives. Women will seek abortions regardless of legality, and the reality is that pro-choice measures are crucial for protecting lives, reducing abortion rates, and ensuring safe access to necessary healthcare.
It’s essential to recognize that restrictions on abortion could extend beyond elective procedures to cover a range of medical interventions that involve the same principles, regardless of public perception. For example, I underwent a D&C following a missed miscarriage, a procedure that is technically an abortion. The repeal of Roe v. Wade could lead to state-level restrictions on such necessary medical treatments, affecting countless individuals.
Ultimately, the message is straightforward: if you oppose abortion, you need not have one. However, if you genuinely care about preserving life, then supporting pro-choice legislation and ensuring safe access to abortions is paramount.
Let’s commit to preventing the coat hanger horrors of the past from becoming our present reality.
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In summary, as we reflect on the past and advocate for the future, it’s crucial to stay informed and engaged. The rights of women and safe reproductive healthcare must remain a priority in our society.