Honors Theses
Date of Award
Spring 3-1-2024
Document Type
Undergraduate Thesis
Department
Biology
First Advisor
Anne Cafer
Second Advisor
Jillian Morrison
Third Advisor
Kristen Dellinger
Relational Format
Dissertation/Thesis
Abstract
On June 24th, 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to reverse Roe v. Wade marked a pivotal moment, eliminating the federal right to pregnancy termination. This thesis examines the challenges of restricted abortion access and emphasizes preventative strategies for unintended pregnancies. Analyzing both pre- and post-pregnancy interventions, such as enhanced sex education, hormonal contraceptives, insurance coverage, prescribers, and post-pregnancy policies, this thesis urges Mississippi residents and legislators to consider policy adjustments for reducing the occurrence of unintended pregnancies.
This research includes an analysis of literature, legislative records, and statistical data. It takes a comparative approach to evaluate the effectiveness of varying policies to minimize unintended pregnancies. Significant findings circulate insurance coverage and prescribers; however, sex education and post-pregnancy outcomes are also analyzed. Accessibility and extended coverage of contraceptives are focused on as critical determinants of pregnancy outcomes and are both suggested as implementable, with little structural change required in Mississippi. This thesis advocates for extended contraceptive coverage by insurance and increased provider accessibility through the utilization of pharmacists as prescribers to minimize unintended pregnancies.
Recommended Citation
Pilcher, Jaycee S., "POLICY BRIEF: DECREASING UNINTENDED PREGNANCY RATES IN MISSISSIPPI" (2024). Honors Theses. 3032.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/3032
Included in
Health Law and Policy Commons, Maternal and Child Health Commons, Women's Health Commons