This past summer, Reproaction hosted our first Self-Managed Abortion (SMA) Information Series, bringing together a group of nearly twenty activists across the country to learn more about self-managed abortion. Throughout the five-week info-series, participants joined discussions about SMA protocols, support methods, combating anti-abortion disinformation, and more.

Self-managed abortion is recognized by the World Health Organization as a safe and effective method of abortion care. As attacks on abortion pills escalate, Reproaction has stayed committed to sharing accurate information about two SMA protocols: SMA with mifepristone + misoprostol and SMA with misoprostol only. Through this info-series, activists gained an in depth-understanding of how to support and organize for SMA in a hostile political landscape.

Peer education is a critical aspect of organizing around SMA. Because SMA is a uniquely stigmatized and targeted form of care, joining in conversation with each other about how we can incorporate SMA work into our activism is essential. In recent years, medication abortion has made up 63% of all US abortions within the healthcare system. We know that abortion pills are necessary and popular, despite anti-abortion attacks. During our info series, we worked with participants to disprove common myths about these vital medications and prioritize evidence-based education about SMA.

With participants from all over the country organizing in vastly different communities, folks had many opportunities to learn from each other’s unique experiences. Participants left knowing how to take action for abortion pills and start their own advocacy campaigns to expand access in their communities.

There will be more opportunities to participate in our Self-Managed Abortion Information Series. If you’re interested in joining a future cohort, join our email list to hear about future cohorts! If you want more information on how to take action on self-managed abortion, check out our website.

With junk science and baseless claims fueling the anti-abortion movement, it’s crucial to remember that knowledge is power. Together, we can get accurate, non-judgmental, and comprehensive information about abortion care into the hands of those who need it.