Arkansas Abortion Law: Separating Fact from Fear
If you’ve spent any time on social media recently, you’ve probably seen conflicting information about Arkansas abortion laws. Unfortunately, some of that information has caused fear and confusion for women facing pregnancy complications.
Many women worry they won’t be able to receive treatment if they experience a miscarriage, an ectopic pregnancy, or another serious medical emergency. The good news is that Arkansas law does not prohibit doctors from providing care in these situations.
Let’s look at what Arkansas law actually says.
1. Treatment for Miscarriage Is Not Considered an Abortion Under Arkansas Law
Miscarriage is the natural loss of a pregnancy and can sometimes require medical treatment to protect a woman’s health and prevent complications.
Arkansas’ Unborn Child Protection Act specifically states that an abortion does not include an act performed to “remove a dead unborn child caused by spontaneous abortion.” In medical terms, “spontaneous abortion” is another term for miscarriage.
This means that women experiencing a miscarriage can still receive appropriate medical treatment in Arkansas.
If you believe you may be miscarrying, seek medical attention promptly. Your health matters, and medical care remains available.
2. Treatment for Ectopic Pregnancy Is Also Allowed
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a pregnancy implants outside the uterus, most commonly in a fallopian tube. Sadly, these pregnancies are not viable and can become life-threatening if left untreated.
Arkansas law specifically states that an abortion does not include an act performed to “remove an ectopic pregnancy.”
In other words, treatment for an ectopic pregnancy remains legal in Arkansas.
Women experiencing symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, shoulder pain, dizziness, or unusual bleeding should seek immediate medical care.
3. Arkansas Law Includes an Exception to Save the Life of the Mother
Arkansas currently prohibits elective abortions, but the law contains an exception for medical emergencies.
The law defines a medical emergency as a condition in which an abortion is necessary to preserve the life of a pregnant woman whose life is endangered by a physical illness, injury, or condition, including one arising from the pregnancy itself.
As the Arkansas Senate explained when discussing Act 309, abortion is prohibited except when it is necessary “to save the life of the mother in a medical emergency.”
This means physicians may act when a woman’s life is in imminent danger and the only way to save her life is to end the pregnancy.
Why This Matters
Fear and misinformation can cause women to delay seeking medical treatment when they need it most.
If you are experiencing symptoms of a miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or another pregnancy-related emergency, do not avoid medical care because of something you saw online. Medical professionals can still provide treatment for these conditions under Arkansas law.
Considering Abortion? Get the Facts First.
If you are considering abortion and your situation does not involve a miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or a life-threatening medical emergency, it is important to understand your pregnancy before making a decision.
A free ultrasound can provide valuable information, including:
- Whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus
- Whether the pregnancy appears viable
- How far along you are
- Whether there may be medical concerns requiring follow-up care
Before making a decision that could impact your health—or potentially violate Arkansas law—get accurate information about your pregnancy.
At HopePlace Fordyce, we offer free and confidential pregnancy services, including ultrasound referrals for eligible clients, so you can make an informed decision with confidence.
Schedule Your Free Appointment
You don’t have to navigate confusion, fear, or uncertainty alone.
Contact HopePlace Fordyce today to schedule a confidential appointment and learn more about your pregnancy and your options.
Rapert, T., & Bentley, M. (2021). Arkansas Senate Bill 6. https://arkleg.state.ar.us. https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Home/FTPDocument?path=%2FACTS%2F2021R%2FPublic%2FACT309.pdf