Image copyright Reuters Image caption Large crowds gathered in New York City

Thousands of people have taken part in co-ordinated rallies across the United States to protest against several states passing tough laws to restrict abortions.

The anti-abortion bills, approved by Republican state legislatures amid a nationwide push for new restrictions by opponents of abortions, are likely to be challenged legally, forcing a ruling by the Supreme Court.

Those against abortions hope the court - which now has a Conservative majority following appointments by President Donald Trump - could then overturn the 1973 Roe v Wade ruling that established a woman's right to terminate her pregnancy.

Media playback is unsupported on your device Media caption The abortion battle explained in three minutes

Last week, the state of Alabama passed the most restrictive law yet, banning abortion in all cases apart from when the mother's life is at risk. Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Missouri and Ohio are among the other states to pass new abortion restrictions.

Earlier this year the Supreme Court blocked implementation of new abortion restrictions in Louisiana. However, the ruling was made by a narrow margin and the case is due to be reviewed later this year.

Image copyright Getty Images Image caption A protest was held outside the Georgia State Capitol building in Atlanta

Image copyright Reuters Image caption In Washington DC, activists protest outside the Supreme Court

Image copyright AFP Image caption Across the country, thousands of people joined the protests

Image copyright Reuters Image caption A girl holds a poster during the protest in New York City

Image copyright Reuters Image caption These protesters gathered in downtown Memphis, Tennessee

Image copyright Reuters Image caption In St Louis, Missouri, hundreds of women protested on the steps of the Old Court House

Image copyright AFP Image caption Demonstrators gathered outside the State Capitol Building in Salt Lake City, Utah

Image copyright AFP Image caption Pro-choice supporters in a demonstration in West Hollywood, California

All pictures subject to copyright.