How Recent Executive Orders Impact Reproductive Health & How Parents Can Prepare
Recent executive actions have significantly reshaped reproductive healthcare in the United States. These changes have profound implications for mothers, parents, and birthing individuals. Below is an overview of the key executive orders and guidance on how to navigate this evolving landscape.
1. Revocation of Protections for Reproductive Healthcare Access
In January 2025, an executive order rescinded previous directives aimed at safeguarding and expanding access to reproductive health services. This action dissolved the White House Gender Policy Council and nullified previous orders that promoted comprehensive reproductive healthcare, including abortion services (The White House, 2025).
Implications:
State Autonomy: With federal protections rolled back, individual states now have greater authority to regulate reproductive health services, leading to potential disparities in access across the country.
Access Challenges: Individuals in states enacting restrictive laws may face difficulties obtaining services like abortion and contraceptive care.
Preparation Strategies:
Stay Informed: Regularly monitor your state's reproductive health policies to understand available services.
Seek Local Resources: Connect with local health organizations and advocacy groups for information on accessible care options.
Consider Travel Plans: If residing in a restrictive state, you may need to plan for travel to access necessary services in more permissive regions.
2. Executive Order on In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Access
A recent executive order aimed to expand access to IVF treatments. However, experts argue that the order lacks concrete measures to reduce costs or mandate insurance coverage, making it more symbolic than practical (Cruz, 2025).
Implications:
Financial Barriers: IVF remains expensive, averaging $12,000 to $14,000 per cycle, often without insurance support.
Limited Inclusivity: Current insurance policies typically require a heterosexual infertility diagnosis, excluding LGBTQ+ couples and single individuals.
Preparation Strategies:
Financial Planning: Explore financial assistance programs, grants, or clinics offering sliding scale fees.
Advocate for Coverage: Engage with local representatives and employers to push for inclusive insurance policies that cover IVF treatments.
3. Changes to Paid Family Leave Policies
The IRS has issued guidance on transitional changes to the Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) Act, set to expire on January 1, 2026. Notably, in 2025, employer withholding from paid family leave payments will not be required, offering temporary relief to states and employers (Zeng, 2025).
Implications:
Uncertainty in Benefits: The impending expiration of the PFML Act introduces uncertainty regarding the continuation of paid family leave benefits.
Employer Adjustments: Employers may need to adjust payroll systems to comply with the new withholding guidance.
Preparation Strategies:
Review Employer Policies: Discuss with your employer how these changes may affect your leave benefits and plan accordingly.
Stay Updated: Keep abreast of legislative developments that may extend or replace the current PFML provisions.
4. Actions Affecting Gender-Affirming and Reproductive Healthcare
The administration has issued orders impacting gender-affirming care and reproductive health services, including directives to "restore the concept of biological truth in federal government" (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, 2025).
Implications:
Reduced Protections: These actions may lead to decreased federal support for gender-affirming care and certain reproductive health services.
Increased Discrimination Risks: Individuals seeking such services might face heightened discrimination or barriers to care.
Preparation Strategies:
Identify Supportive Providers: Seek out healthcare providers known for offering inclusive and affirming care.
Legal Preparedness: Understand your rights and consider consulting legal experts specializing in healthcare discrimination.
General Recommendations for Parents and Birthing Individuals
Engage in Advocacy: Support organizations working to protect and expand reproductive rights.
Build Support Networks: Connect with communities and groups that share your experiences and can offer guidance.
Consult Healthcare Professionals: Regularly communicate with trusted healthcare providers to navigate these changes effectively.
Staying informed and proactive is essential in adapting to the evolving reproductive healthcare landscape. By understanding these executive actions and their implications, you can better prepare and advocate for your health and well-being.
References
Cruz, M. (2025, February 19). Trump’s IVF executive order is a glorified press release. The Cut. https://www.thecut.com/article/what-you-need-to-know-about-trumps-ivf-executive-order.html
The White House. (2025, January 23). Defending women from gender ideology extremism and restoring biological truth to the federal government. https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/defending-women-from-gender-ideology-extremism-and-restoring-biological-truth-to-the-federal-government/
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. (2025, February 19). HHS takes action on President Trump’s executive orders defending women and children. https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2025/02/19/hhs-takes-action-president-trumps-executive-orders-defending-women-children.html
Zeng, A. (2025, February 19). New IRS rules on paid family leave: Essential updates for new parents. Investopedia. https://www.investopedia.com/changes-to-paid-family-leave-8783089
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