After the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1973 case that established the constitutional right to have an abortion, reproductive freedoms in the United States are now under attack. Since the reversal on June 24, 17 states have banned abortion entirely, while a further seven intend to enact a ban. In Texas, a trigger law will allow abortion providers to be sued for “no less” than $100,000.

In California, along with 21 other often liberal-leaning states, abortion rights remain protected for now. As a response to the Supreme Court’s decision, Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order prohibiting patient data from being shared with out-of-state entities seeking to prevent or punish abortions. In November, California voters will have the chance to add abortion as a state constitutional right, ensuring the procedure remains legal. That’s just one reason why it’s so important to vote this year.

AltaMed believes all women deserve the right to safe and equitable health care of their choosing. We remain committed to delivering the very best access to reproductive resources and information. Here’s what’s available for you.

Family Planning

Family planning services are essential to the health of women, and their children. AltaMed offers birth control, pregnancy testing, and referrals to a fertility specialist, so you can determine if and when you want to start a family. Contraceptive services extend to teens and young adults, and are always confidential.

If you do choose to become a parent, we’re here for you with prenatal care and pediatric services. For over 50 years, we’ve helped families grow healthy.

Health Education

When it comes to women’s health, access to easy information makes a huge difference. Knowing where to begin can be challenging. AltaMed offers resources on a variety of important health topics, so you can stay informed about your unique health needs.

Learn about:

• Mammograms
• Ovarian Cancer
• Breastfeeding
• Prenatal Guidance
• Cervical Cancer
• Endometriosis
• Teen Pregnancy

We also offer community health classes. These lessons cover general health topics including stress management, healthy living for seniors, and more.

Essential Screenings

As we age, our health needs change and become more complex. Staying current with recommended screenings is an important part of your overall well-being.

Health experts recommend scheduling routine well-woman exams as you reach certain milestones:

• Age 13-15: Girls have their first Gynecologist appointment
• Age 21: Women should begin getting Pap tests no less than every three years
• Age 30: Women should receive HPV-testing Pap Smears once every five years
• Age 50: Women should have a mammogram every two years (Age 40 for those with a family history of breast cancer)

Early detection of serious diseases is vital. An estimated 12% of women, for example, will develop breast cancer in their lives. Luckily, the 5-year survival rate is 99% when detected early. If you or a loved one has been delaying routine checkups because of the pandemic, now is the time to makean appointment.

Our Commitment to You

Despite a time of serious upheaval around our country, AltaMed remains committed to empowering women on their terms. No matter your health needs, you can find easy, culturally sensitive care close to home. Interested in becoming a patient? Call (888) 499-9303 or click here to get started.