Challenges of Abortion Legislation in South Carolina: A Physician’s Perspective

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By Jillian Weinberger

In the aftermath of the Dobbs decision, South Carolina has enacted a law prohibiting abortion after approximately six weeks of pregnancy. While the legislation does include certain exceptions for cases of rape and incest, the practical implications of these exceptions have raised significant concerns. Dr. Kristl Tomlin, a dedicated pediatric and adolescent gynecologist, witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by young victims of rape under this new legal framework. This experience ultimately led her to make the difficult decision to leave the state she cherished.

In this compelling episode, Dr. Tomlin shares her poignant experiences and highlights how the necessity of involving law enforcement and legal representatives in her medical practice adversely affected her patients. Her story sheds light on the emotional toll and ethical dilemmas healthcare providers face in such a challenging environment, prompting her to seek a more supportive community.

(A full transcript of this audio essay will be available within 24 hours of publication in the audio player above.)

Credit: Isabel Castro

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This episode of “The Opinions” was produced by Jillian Weinberger, with editing by Kaari Pitkin and Annie-Rose Strasser. The mixing was done by Pat McCusker, and original music was created by Pat McCusker, Isaac Jones, Carole Sabouraud, and Efim Shapiro. Fact-checking was conducted by Mary Marge Locker, while audience strategy was managed by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The executive producer of Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser.

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