In November 1990, a feminist gathering in San Bernardo del Tuyu, Argentina, brought together diverse activists, leading to a pivotal exchange about misoprostol, or Cytotec. This medication, primarily for stomach ulcers, became a game changer as women in Brazil were using it for safe, at-home abortions. OB-GYN Alicia Cacopardo, astonished by its efficacy, aimed to procure the drug for her patients in Argentina, where abortion was heavily restricted. This encounter sparked a broader movement among activists eager to disseminate this crucial information across Latin America, equipping women with a vital tool against restrictive laws.
Cacopardo remembers thinking at the time: 'It's a huge change. It's brilliant,' as she learned about misoprostol's potential for safe, at-home abortions.
Activists realized if women could access misoprostol, they could end their pregnancies regardless of the severe legal restrictions on abortion in Latin America.
Cacopardo aimed to supply her patients with Cytotec, believing it could empower women to terminate unwanted pregnancies despite Argentina's restrictive abortion laws.
The Encuentro sparked a significant exchange of ideas among activists, leading to the discovery of misoprostol and its revolutionary implications for women's reproductive rights.
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