This dissertation explores and analyses the overturn of Roe v Wade and the erosion of constitutional rights to abortion in the United States. The purpose of this study is to provide a greater understanding of how this ongoing situation could have a serious impact on America’s most marginalised women. It presents a history of abortion and the extent to which marginalised women have the right to control their reproductive capacity. Different approaches inform this study, using the framework of biopolitics, intersectionality and reproductive justice. Through these approaches, this study examines concepts ranging from state control of women’s bodies to the contribution of social identities in the experience of seeking an abortion and understanding the difference between the provision of a constitutional right and the ability to access and use this right due to social circumstances. Through analysing arguments and opinions made by political, legal and health professionals that have referred to secondary data themselves, this dissertation develops themes based on the possible implications of overturning Roe v Wade and how these implications could affect marginalised women. In identifying and highlighting the potential impacts, we can better understand the severity of this verdict and how women can be supported in society, helping them navigate what should be considered a regression of democratic and human rights.
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