Abortion access is dwindling in Milei's Argentinaxa0three years after legalization

In Montecarlo, Argentina, María (not her real name) is faced with challenging circumstances. With four children, the loss of her husband's job has left the family struggling financially. Her situation worsened when she discovered a delay in her period, raising concerns of an unwanted pregnancy amidst their economic struggles. 

Her initial attempts to access abortion services in her town encountered resistance. Her gynecologist and the local public hospital were unable to provide the necessary guidance or medications. Seeking help elsewhere, María traveled to Eldorado, where she learned about the procedure but was told there was a shortage of essential medication. 

Amid a national shortage of medications, including misoprostol, María faced barriers in exercising her legal right to a safe and free abortion, as established by Argentine law. The government's halt in purchasing reproductive health supplies has amplified these difficulties, affecting access across the country. 

Without the required medication available through public health channels, María eventually sought assistance from online resources to secure what she needed. Her situation underscores broader challenges in accessing reproductive health services in Argentina, with supplies and contraceptives in short supply, impacting family planning efforts. 

In response to these shortages, some provinces are making direct purchases to fill this critical gap. However, this approach may exacerbate regional disparities, leaving some areas more vulnerable than others. The current climate of reproductive health policy threatens to undermine significant progress made in reducing maternal mortality rates linked to unsafe abortions.