Dr. Warren Hern runs the Boulder Abortion Clinic, one of only five clinics in the country offering second- and third-trimester abortions, a practice that sparks fierce political debate. Critics argue that abortion after fetal viability is too late, but only about 1% of abortions are done after 21 weeks. Hern says he performs late-term abortions only in extreme medical emergencies and not in the ninth month, as claimed by some politicians. Many patients come from red states with strict abortion laws, facing situations like severe fetal anomalies or pregnancy from sexual abuse. One couple from Texas, Emma and Stewart, traveled to Colorado for an abortion at 24 weeks due to a severe fetal anomaly, a decision that led to the birth of their son Louie. The couple’s experience advocating for abortion demonstrates the importance of access to the procedure. Another patient, Willow, faced challenges accessing care after finding out she was five months pregnant and being turned away by multiple clinics. With the recent overturn of Roe v. Wade and the enactment of near-total abortion bans in 14 states, situations like Willow’s are becoming more common, leading to increased danger, expenses, and emotional stress for women seeking abortion. Dr. Hern emphasizes that the criminalization of abortion is a national catastrophe for women, making essential health care more difficult to access and putting women’s lives at risk.
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Mixed Emotions: Anguish, Gratitude, and Fear Surround Late-Term Abortions at Colorado Clinic
