Complications rise as Indiana's recent abortion ban could lead to even higher maternal mortality rates

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Pro-choice advocates argue the Indiana's near total abortion ban will lead to more women dying, with Indiana already having the third highest maternal mortality rate.

The new law bans all abortions except in cases of rape, incest, fatal fetal anomalies, or when the mother's life is at risk.

Midwest Advocacy Director for Whole Woman's Health Alliance, Sharon Lau, says in common pregnancy issues treated with an abortion, like miscarriages,  there are often obstacles to access care. Even in states with exceptions for the life of the mother.

"And we have seen this happen already in various states. Where a patient is presented in an emergency room miscarrying, and the doctors don't feel like they can do anything to help the patient," Lau said.

Whole Woman's Health says it will offer abortion services at its South Bend clinic until the new Indiana abortion law takes effect, September 15. Then Whole Woman's Health expects to shut down the clinic entirely. 

Whole Woman's Health is considering a new location just across the border in Illinois but for now will continue to offer medication abortions and help women get access through its WayFinder program.