Wednesday's Words from Women

I chose to have an abortion because I recently lost my job after three years and the man that I am involved with was sent to jail. I have no financial assistance so I believe that this is the best decision right now.

--Submitted by Jona* through a member clinic

My husband and I share a happy home with our two young children and dog. When the economy crashed, although we only had temporary employment, we happily entered into our marriage and went forward with both pregnancies. Now the only income we have has been from what little I can make with my horse training. With the discovery of this pregnancy came the fear that I would lose our only income. This abortion will allow me to continue to support my family and to fulfill my dreams of going to college for a degree in equine studies, which I physically would have been incapable of doing while pregnant. Thank you so much NAF for supporting my choice and keeping my home a happy one.

--Submitted by Connelly* through a member clinic

Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

Wednesday's Words from Women

My ex-husband was very abusive during our relationship. While we were still dating, he admitted to intentionally getting me pregnant in an attempt to secure the marriage and to get want he wanted, a child. I was only 20 years old at the time, in the middle of my college career and desperately not wanting a child, especially with this man. I was able to obtain a safe and legal abortion within weeks of knowing I was pregnant. The choice to have an abortion has made all the difference in my life. I may not have had the strength to leave my ex-husband if we had a child and it would have made finishing college a lot more difficult. I have been divorced from him for almost a year now and I am graduating soon with my bachelor’s degree in nursing. I am so proud to be a strong, single, and independent woman because of my freedom to choose!

--Submitted by Jackson* through our website

I was rushed to the emergency room and diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism. The tests also showed that I was pregnant. Because of the gravity of my illness and the situation that I found myself in, the decision to terminate this pregnancy was the best for my quality of life and that of my son.

--Submitted by Rayna* through a member clinic

Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

Tell Concerned Women for America That There is no “Cure-All” for Rape

This week, while we were busy trying to get military insurance coverage for raped servicewomen, the anti-abortion group Concerned Women for America (CWA), showed us that they aren’t really that concerned about women at all.

In a letter to the Senate opposing the Shaheen amendment, CWA said the amendment would be giving “abortion as a ‘cure-all’” for rape.

This outrageous statement shows just how little CWA knows about how sexual violence affects women. Women need access to a full range of health care services, including abortion care, following a sexual assault. However, the suggestion that any single element of health care—or any single thing for that matter—could act as a “cure-all” for rape is absurd and insulting. Ironically, this rhetoric shows little concern for women and minimizes the impact of a sexual assault. 

Saying “abortion is a ‘cure-all’” for rape is like saying a band aid is a cure-all for cancer. Tell CWA that there is no “cure-all” for rape and send them a band aid.

NAF will send CWA one band aid stamped with #nocureall4rape every time someone:

• likes or shares our Facebook post about this letter,
• tweets using the hashtag #nocureall4rape, or
• signs up to receive alerts from us 

between now and December 31.

Standing up for Raped Servicewomen

This week, we asked you to urge your senators to support the Shaheen amendment. This amendment would have lifted the ban on military insurance coverage for abortion care in cases where servicewomen become pregnant as the result of rape or incest. Thank you for taking action!

Unfortunately, anti-choice legislators blocked the Shaheen amendment from coming to the floor for a vote. Senator Shaheen, Majority Leader Reid, and other senators fought very hard for us.

As disappointed as we are right now, you should know that together we made a huge impact in the Senate and we got a great response from Senate staff. We heard about Senate offices where callers could not get through because of how many calls they were getting about this issue. Thank you so much for standing up for raped servicewomen!

The fight doesn’t end here. We are already making plans for our next steps—carrying this momentum forward—and are working to ensure that the Shaheen amendment is in the FY13 National Defense Authorization Act. We will need your help again next year to make this a reality.

Women in the military stand up for us and we won’t stop standing up for them.

Wednesday's Words from Women

As much as I would like to have children, I know that this isn’t the right time for me to continue a pregnancy. I just graduated from college and I am in a healthy relationship. I have a decent job but I struggle to make ends meet. When I found out I was pregnant I knew immediately what my decision would be. My boyfriend and I are nowhere near financially stable enough to support a child. Thankfully, accessing abortion care in my state is not as restrictive as it is in other states. I was fortunate enough to get an appointment within three days of calling a clinic. Throughout the four hours I was at the clinic, I spent the majority of the time with about six other women who were going through the same thing. I immediately felt better knowing that I wasn't alone.

I have no regrets. I know I made the right choice. I couldn’t be the mother I want to be at this time and I wouldn’t have been able to give a child the life that it deserved.

I will forever be an advocate for the pro-choice movement and I hope my story helps other women who are scared to choose what is best for them.

--Submitted by Joelle* through our website


I would definitely love to give a huge and grateful thank you to NAF for having an open support system available for women in my situation. It makes people feel like they are not alone and that they have a variety of options available. When I found out that I was pregnant, I had no job nor was I getting help from the man involved. I felt like I was going to be “forced” to have a child! So thank you so much for everything you all do.

--Submitted by Fallone* through a member clinic.


Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

Standing up for Servicewomen: Rape Survivors Deserve Access to Abortion Care

Today The Hill published my blog post about an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act that would provide servicewomen with military insurance coverage for abortion care in cases of rape and incest:

Standing up for servicewomen: Rape survivors deserve access to abortion care

Recently, Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) introduced an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act to lift the current ban on military insurance covering abortion care in cases where a woman is pregnant after rape or incest. Unfortunately, rape is a very real threat for American servicewomen, and they must be able to access the abortion care they need after experiencing sexual violence.

Servicewomen rely on the military for their health care, but under current policy they are left to fend for themselves if they become pregnant after rape or incest. Through our website and toll-free hotline, we hear from military women about their difficulties obtaining abortion care after they experience sexual violence:

I am in the military and got raped and became pregnant. I would like to just move on without military intervention. I am stationed in South Korea and abortion is illegal here, even for rape. I cannot go home on leave at this time. I don’t know what to do. What can I do?

--Anonymous; South Korea


I am a single female serving my country in Iraq. I was raped. . . I volunteered for this deployment, and I worked hard for my promotion. I deserve to continue my mission. And I missed my period today . . . I need my career and I want to serve. This has been my dream: to serve my country. And I never thought that I would have to worry about being raped. But it happened to me. Please, I am asking . . . can you help me?

--Anonymous; Iraq

Rape survivors in the military are most often from the lower ranks, earning less pay, and therefore less likely to be able to pay extra for medical care. Denial of coverage adds significant financial burdens to women who may delay accessing care in order to find the needed funds. It's wrong that after being raped so many of our servicewomen have to put their lives, health, and military careers at risk in order to access the abortion care they need.

This is also a matter of fundamental fairness. Military insurance should be comparable to other federal health insurance programs, many of which cover abortion care in cases of rape and incest. Women in the military put their lives on the line for our country, and they deserve the same access to safe, legal abortion care after sexual violence as their civilian counterparts.

Other federal health insurance programs are prohibited from providing funding for abortion care, but unlike the military, most contain an exception for pregnancy resulting from rape and incest. Although I don’t support bans on the funding of abortion care, at the very least making military policy consistent with other federal health insurance programs, such as Medicaid, is imperative for the health and well being of women in the military.

Military women receive high quality medical care during their military careers for other harm that comes to them, and that should include coverage of abortion care for women who have survived sexual violence. Women in our military stand up for us. We must stand up for them.

Wednesday's Words from Women

I am 35 years old and have two children who are 16 and 18. I recently got laid off from my job and my husband has been out of work for over a year due to a bad car wreck. We have no other income or insurance at this time. If I continued this pregnancy, I would have one more child that I would have to struggle to raise. At night I often wonder what the next meal will be or where it will come from. There is no one around to assist me with the needs that I have now. So I am very confident that my decision to have an abortion is the right choice. Why should I bring another life into an unstable situation? We are already one step away from being homeless. Thank you for keeping the right to CHOOSE alive!

--Submitted by Cagney* through our website


I’m 21 years old and pretty much not ready to have a child. I just lost my job and I am no longer able to pay the few bills I do have. Continuing this pregnancy would make my situation much harder and would also be in poor judgment. I want to be stable enough to ensure that my child will never see me struggle.

--Submitted by Bardot* through a member clinic


Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

Abortion and Motherhood Series: Day Five

I am a single mother with two children. I am currently on welfare and live in low-income housing. I had to stop working in August 2007 due to my son contracting Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). My day-to-day life has become very hard due to the economy and my unemployment. If I wasn’t able to obtain an abortion, I don’t know what I would have done for myself and my children.

--Molly*

Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

*Name changed to protect patient privacy

Abortion and Motherhood Series: Day Four

Thanks to NAF and its member clinic, I have a second chance to keep pushing and thriving towards my goals in life. I am 22 years old and have a 2-year-old daughter. She is my world and in order to give her my all I have made the decision to not have any more children. I made a mistake in getting pregnant this time and now I know to be much more careful. I am happy that there are places like this clinic that give young women like me a second chance at life. Thank you.

--Sanai*

Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

*Name changed to protect patient privacy

Abortion and Motherhood Series: Day Three

I discovered I was pregnant after losing my full-time job and I am having a difficult time finding another one. I have two children and I do not believe that I should have another child at this time. I am so grateful for the help when I needed it most. NAF was so supportive. Thank you!

--Ciara*


I wasn’t going to have an abortion. However, I’ve been in the emergency room four times during my pregnancy. I was told that my cervix shifted and that my placenta was coming out. I was then told that I would have a miscarriage if I didn’t go on bed rest. I can only imagine what would have happened if I went on bed rest! Who would have taken care of my kids? How would the bills or my mortgage be paid? I’m grateful that I could get the help that I needed to end this pregnancy. Lord knows times are hard, everything is a blessing.

--Nicola*

Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

*Name changed to protect patient privacy

Abortion and Motherhood Series: Day Two

When I discovered that I was pregnant I was devastated. I was 43 years old and I had just rebuilt my life. I had been homeless and was unemployed for a couple of years. My oldest son is going to college and having another child at this time might possibly cost me everything. I also have health issues and I wouldn’t be able to work long if pregnant. There are very few jobs out there so I just couldn’t risk losing mine and the well being of my other children and myself for this pregnancy. I never thought I would have to make a decision like this but I am grateful I was able to make this choice which was the best (and only) for my family.

--Destiny*


Only you know what’s best for you! I am 26 years old and I am going through a lot of emotional issues right now. I decided to terminate this pregnancy because I am not stable enough to have another child. I have a 7-year-old son who is my whole world. He is the only person who loves me unconditionally and he is such a positive and wonderful presence in my life. It was hard for me to come to this decision, but I am confident that it’s the right one for me. I will have plenty of time to have another child but that time is not now.

--Veronica*

Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

*Name changed to protect patient privacy.

Abortion and Motherhood Series

There are many myths and misconceptions about who gets abortions, and why. Abortion opponents often attempt to demonize women who choose abortion care by depicting them as careless, sexually indiscriminate, anti-children, or selfish. However, the fact is that most women who have abortions are already mothers and feel terminating their pregnancy is the best, most selfless choice they can make for their children and families. According to the Guttmacher Institute, 61 percent of women who have an abortion have one or more children and 72 percent of women who call the NAF Hotline have given birth to one or more children.

This week, NAF was part of a Slate article examining abortion, motherhood, and the many diverse reasons why women who are already mothers choose to terminate a pregnancy. To expand upon this article, this week we are running a blog series with some of the stories we have heard from mothers who chose abortion care.


Thank you for providing me the assistance and support I needed in order to have my procedure. I am a single mother of a child with special needs. I found myself in an abusive relationship and after I saw the red flags, I quickly broke up with the man that I was involved with. A few weeks later, I sprained my ankle and while getting medical care found out that I was pregnant. Due to complications associated with the birth of my daughter, I would not be able to carry this child to term so I got an abortion.

--Evelyn*

Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

*Name changed to protect patient privacy

Wednesday's Words from Women

My husband and I were devastated to learn that the child I was carrying might have mentally-incapacitating birth defects caused by a medication I'd been taking for anxiety. Although I welcomed motherhood, I felt it would be selfish to carry the pregnancy to term given the massive health risks involved. After some thought, I decided to make an appointment at a local abortion clinic.

After my abortion, I was comforted by the fact that I was doing the right thing. When I returned to the clinic two weeks later for my follow-up appointment, protesters were gathered outside. There were graphic images and no shortage of people who were all too eager to tell me that I was going to Hell. Honestly, none of this bothered me. I'm an adult, and I'm fully capable of making my own decisions. Moreover, I was confident in my choice and didn't want or need anyone else's approval.

However, when I entered the clinic I became enraged when I saw a young woman crying because the protesters had called her names like "slut" and "murderer." How these people can believe that making this woman cry and feel awful will further their cause is beyond me.

When it gets to the point where people openly scream hideous insults at women, and where doctors can be shot to death in cold blood at their houses of worship, it's time we reclaim our rights and our sanity. This "silent majority" balderdash has gone on for too long.

--Submitted by Henrietta* through our website


I was physically abused by someone who claimed to love me, which made it so hard for me to leave him. However, I feared for my life. When I found out that I was pregnant, the decision was easy—I could not bring a child into this situation. The NAF member clinic saved my life. Having this option made a world of difference. I owe you all so much. I will be forever grateful.

--Submitted by BJ* through a member clinic


Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

Wednesday's Words from Women

At the age of 30, I was in a long-term relationship and I believed that I would marry the man that I was involved with. It was not a shock to either of us when I discovered I was pregnant. However, I was very sick in the beginning of the pregnancy and naturally I expected his support. Upon telling him, he became very jealous, aggressive, and volatile. He was very concerned about the lack of attention he was getting from me and became argumentative and mentally abusive. At times he’d even say that he didn’t believe I was pregnant. I decided not only was this guy not going to support this pregnancy, but that he wasn’t going to be a good husband or father to my child. Having lost my father when I was 3 years old, I remember how difficult it was for my own mother to raise me and wanted my child to grow up in a two-parent household. At this point I started my search, and thank God I found NAF. I was greeted on the phone with a concerned and genuinely caring voice that was interested in my story and gave me the help and support I needed. There was no feeling of shame, for this was the first time I felt like I could breathe. Thank you for all your help and kind words. You all are doing a truly great act and are helping many great women make the right choice for themselves.

--Submitted by Atiya* through our website


I have five children. I had very difficult pregnancies and someone has always had to help with my children while my husband was at work. If it wasn’t for this assistance I wouldn’t have had a choice. Thank you so much for helping my family.

--Submitted by Duyen* through a member clinic


Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

Wednesday's Words from Women

I’m 21 years old and recently found out that I was pregnant. It was scary seeing the positive sign on the pregnancy test; it was surreal. All I could think was: is this happening to me? I have just started college. My decision was instant and final. However, I continued to have questions run through my mind. What if abortion was illegal in this country? What would I have done? Would I have tried to go to Mexico to terminate the pregnancy or would I have attempted to do it myself? How would I pay for this? The NAF Hotline and the clinic told me that they would help me through this situation. This has changed my life for the better and I am so thankful for that. I would have been so lost, but everything is okay now.

--Submitted by Aysa* through a member clinic


I am pro-choice because I believe no one should have the ability to tell a woman what she can or cannot do with her body. When I found out I was pregnant I knew I needed an abortion. I’m not ready for a child. I promised myself that I would never be in this position again because I am now and will forever be in control of my own life. Thank you.

--Submitted by Amelia* through a member clinic


Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

Virginia Board of Health Targets Abortion Providers with Politically-Motivated Regulations

Today, I issued the following statement:

Today, the Virginia Board of Health passed medically unnecessary, politically-motivated regulations targeting the state’s abortion providers. These regulations will not make abortion safer, but will just make it more difficult for abortion providers to remain open and for women to continue to access the abortion care they need.

This morning, the Board of Health heard testimony from abortion providers and members of the medical community opposing these medically unnecessary regulations. However, they still chose to reject numerous amendments offered to protect the safety and confidentiality of both providers and patients with little to no debate. It is deeply distressing that the Board chose to put politics ahead of medical evidence and women’s health.

Abortion has an outstanding safety record, and Virginia providers are already highly regulated. Fewer than 0.3% of abortion patients experience a complication that requires hospitalization. Health care facilities, including women’s health centers, are already required to comply with a variety of federal and state regulations. Medical professionals, including physicians and clinicians who work in abortion care, are required to maintain professional standards and licenses and complete continuing medical education courses. Additionally, most abortion providers comply with professional guidelines and established standards of care.

There is no evidence that unnecessary regulations like those passed in Virginia today do anything to improve patient safety. These new regulations are not about ensuring that abortion care is “safe.” They are about ensuring that abortion care is unavailable in Virginia.

State News Round-Up

Anti-choice legislators in the states continue to push new legislation that would restrict women’s access to abortion care.

Kansas Abortion Providers Fight Onerous Regulations

Wednesday, two NAF members testified against regulations targeting abortion providers during a Kansas Department of Health and Environment hearing. Earlier this summer, Kansas passed onerous and unnecessary abortion regulations, which dictated among other things the room temperature and exact sizes of everything from procedure rooms to janitorial closets at facilities that provide abortion care. The providers who testified have filed a federal lawsuit, which has prevented these regulations from taking effect.

At the hearing, the providers argued that the rules would harm women's health by curtailing abortion access and make it all but impossible for doctors to get licensed to provide abortion care.

>Learn more about the Kansas regulations


Federal Judge Blocks Key Provisions of Texas Sonogram Law

Last week, a federal judge temporarily blocked provisions of a Texas law that would have required a woman seeking abortion care to view a sonogram image at least 24 hours before her procedure. U.S. District Judge Sam Sparks ruled that there was cause to believe that such requirements were an unconstitutional burden on doctors.


“Personhood” Amendments in Mississippi, Ohio

Mississippi is one of just a handful of states that will be holding elections this year, and among the items on the ballot will be a measure that seeks to define “person” as every human being from the moment of fertilization. If approved, the measure could criminalize all abortions within the state, including those applying to cases of rape or incest.

An anti-choice group is hoping to place a similar constitutional amendment before voters in Ohio in 2012. Personhood USA is circulating petitions in an effort to amend the state’s constitution to define a person as any human being at any stage of development, including fertilization. Such recognition could make abortion care illegal.

Wednesday's Words from Women

Making the decision to have an abortion takes a lot of courage and strength. A person can take all of the steps necessary to prevent a pregnancy, yet mistakes still happen. I don’t have a lot of financial and emotional support right now; however, NAF and its member clinic in Cleveland have given me strength to get through this time in my life. I appreciate everything they do for women in need.

--Submitted by Baxter* through a member clinic


I recently lost my job and the man that I was involved with was abusive. I believe that if I were to continue with this pregnancy, the child would be abused as well. I am also in school and I would not be able to graduate if I were to continue with this pregnancy. Now I can focus on my future and move on with great hopes in my heart!

--Submitted by Jacori* through a member clinic


Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

Wednesday's Words from Women

I would like to thank NAF and its member clinic in Cleveland for assisting me in getting this abortion. If it wasn’t for you all, I don’t know how I would have made it through this situation. I am 22 years old and I am a single parent. I am currently looking for employment and I am eager to go back to school. I love my daughter with all my heart but I struggle to make ends meet. I believe that I have to make some changes in my life before I will be able to support another child and because of NAF, I will be able to do so.

--Submitted by Ernestine* through a member clinic


A year and half ago I had abdominal surgery and I continue to have pain from the procedure. I have experienced increased pain during this pregnancy and I am in and out of the hospital. My children have to stay with family members while I am being treated so I don’t believe that bringing more children into the world would be the best decision for me at this time.

--Submitted by Nona* through a member clinic


Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

ACLU Challenges Kansas Abortion Restriction

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) asked a district court on Tuesday to block a new Kansas law that will prevent private insurers from covering abortions.

Statehouses around the nation are currently embroiled in lawsuits that challenge a state’s ability to place unnecessary barriers on women’s ability to access abortion care.

However, this case is a bit different. The Kansas law doesn’t restrict the behavior of medical providers or women seeking abortion care, but rather how abortion care is paid for. The ACLU contends that the payer restriction is also an “undue burden.” The law, their court brief argues, “is directed exclusively at making it more difficult for women to obtain and pay for abortion care” and therefore is “no different than a law that would require women to pay a tax to obtain an abortion.” The argument here is that: “Kansas men are permitted to buy comprehensive insurance plans that cover all of their potential medical expenses, but Kansas women are prohibited from doing the same.”

By challenging this ‘new kind of restriction,’ pro-choice advocates have the opportunity to pioneer untested arguments, which could have a ripple effect that according to Brigitte Amiri, senior staff attorney with the ACLU Reproductive Freedom Project, “will likely set a precedent for what cases in other states could look like.”

Wednesday's Words from Women

I am a single mother of six children, struggling to make ends meet. Additionally, I have spinal injuries that have worsened since my last pregnancy. I am not sure what will happen if I carry this pregnancy to term because I am in need of another surgery. I have to stay healthy to support the children I have now. If this choice wasn’t available, I’m not sure what would happen to our family. Thanks so much for your help.
Love,
The seven of us

--Submitted by Veronica* through a member clinic


This pregnancy was a shock to me. Throughout my life I’ve been very careful about my reproductive choices. I have only ever had one partner, we used protection, and I took the morning after pill when I thought the protection we used failed. When I realized that I was late, I felt scared and alone. I’m struggling through school, my parents help emotionally but not financially, and the man that I’m involved with, while a great friend, is unstable. I’ve always believed that women should have the right to choose, although I didn’t think I supported the cause. Now that I realize how easily this can happen—even when being responsible—it is a comfort to know that I have options. Although this was a hard decision, I’m thankful I have the choice.

--Submitted by Billie* through a member clinic


Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

Series Highlights Impact of Texas Ultrasound Law

In May, Texas Governor Rick Perry signed a bill that requires women seeking abortion care to undergo an ultrasound and listen to an explanation from the doctor about what the image shows. To understand how abortion providers and patients will be affected by the law, The Texas Tribune interviewed Dr. Scott Spear, the medical director at Planned Parenthood of the Texas Capital Region, as a part of the publication’s month-long series on how Texans' lives will change in the fall, when most of the bills passed by the legislature will go into effect.

Additionally, this law forces women to wait 24 hours after the mandatory ultrasound before they can obtain abortion care, unless they live more than 100 miles away from the nearest clinic, in which case the waiting period is two hours.

The law is currently being challenged in federal court by the Center for Reproductive Rights, who requested an injunction to prevent the law from going into effect on September 1.

>>Read more about the harmful effects of waiting periods and the additional burdens they create

Wednesday's Words from Women

I had to make the choice at 27 weeks to terminate my pregnancy. One of the greatest experiences I encountered was being taken care of by Dr. George Tiller, God rest his soul. We as woman can NEVER give up on keeping abortion legal.

--Submitted by Christian* through our website


I chose to terminate this pregnancy because I already care for a five year old child. My boyfriend also has two children, one of which has brain cancer. Taking care of a child with an illness that severe is a lot to handle. We only have one income so things are really hard right now. I want to thank NAF and its member clinic for helping us at this time. The clinic is great and the staff was wonderful and very understanding. I don’t want to see my family struggle. I want to be able to take care of them and give them everything they deserve, need and want. Thank you.

--Submitted by Penny* through a member clinic


Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

San Francisco Politicians Crackdown on CPC False Advertising

San Francisco officials have begun to crackdown on crisis pregnancy centers (CPC) by introducing legislation that would make it illegal for CPCs to falsely advertise about their pregnancy-related services. Crisis pregnancy centers, which are identified as places for pregnant women to get advice, have a long history of intentionally misleading women to prevent them from accessing abortion care.

The bill’s author, Malia Cohen, said the law was necessary to protect low-income women who are drawn into the centers, which often offer free services.

San Francisco city attorney Dennis Herrera, who has written a letter to a local CPC, First Resort, about its deceptive advertising, was explicit in his distaste for the centers, calling them “right wing, politically motivated” institutions whose mission was “to dissuade women from seeking their constitutionally protected rights.”

Wednesday's Words from Women

With great certainty, I have made the decision not to have children. When I found out I was pregnant, I was surprised. Yet, I knew immediately that I wanted to have an abortion. I have received such wonderful support from the staff at the clinic and they made my experience comfortable without any judgment. This is what I needed to feel empowered and not feel like a bad person.

--Submitted by Milan* through a member clinic


I am homeless and I am currently living at a shelter. The man that I was involved with was abusive the day before my appointment so I am very grateful for NAF as well as its member clinic for helping me. I will do all that I can to assist NAF in its continuing efforts to help other women that are in the same situation. Bless you; I am so grateful and I love you all. Thank you.

--Submitted by Sheena* through a member clinic


Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

Women to Receive Preventative Services at No Additional Cost

In a momentous decision to improve women’s access to birth control, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced Monday that it will require health insurance plans to cover all government-approved contraceptives for women, without co-payments or other charges.

This decision will require coverage of a full range of contraceptive methods approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Among the drugs and devices that must be covered are emergency contraceptives including pills known as ella and Plan B.

“These historic guidelines are based on science and existing literature and will help ensure women get the preventive health benefits they need,” said Kathleen Sebelius, the secretary of health and human services.

The requirements will apply to insurance starting on or after August 1, 2012.


The Women of Pennsylvania Have Had Enough! Have You?

In an effort to combat the legislative attacks on women’s reproductive rights in Pennsylvania, the We’ve Had Enough Campaign aims to shine a light upon the state legislature’s deceptive tactics to restrict access to safe, legal abortion care.

Read more about the We’ve Had Enough Campaign and their newest blog entry on the attack on women’s reproductive rights in statehouses around the nation.

Wednesday's Words from Women

Three years ago, I fell ill. I went from doctor to doctor and finally I hit a brick wall. I had several tests done, however the doctors could not find one illness. Ultimately, I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. I’m 29 years old and married with two lovely children from a previous relationship. My husband and I wanted a child of our own but knew my health wasn’t stable. Last December, I was laid off due to health issues. Then my husband was laid off as well. We were careful not to become pregnant but the contraception that we were using was not as reliable as we thought. In America we are all given the right to choose. I chose to end this pregnancy for many reasons and I’m thankful I had the right. I’m also very thankful for the help that NAF and its member clinic gave my family.

--Submitted by Malia* through a member clinic


Growing up, I was extremely anti-choice. Like many women, I thought I would find someone who I could build my life with. I was wrong. The man that I was involved with didn’t want anything to do with me after I found out I was pregnant. I have three wonderful children already and I am not financially able to have another child. Did I do the right thing in choosing abortion? Yes, and I do not regret having the procedure. Why am I pro-choice? After having this done, I did a lot of thinking and I realized that every woman has the right to choose what’s best for her and her family. I believe every woman has the right to choose.

--Submitted by Miranda* through a member clinic


Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

NAF Patient Partnership Participant Featured in Mother Jones

As states continue to pass abortion restrictions, Dana Weinstein talks to Mother Jones about her abortion experience and how these restrictions would have affected her ability to make the decisions that were best for her family. Dana chose to terminate her wanted pregnancy after she learned that her fetus was missing the main part of its brain and would likely not survive.

With the additional barriers that anti-abortion activists have erected around the country, Weinstein worries about other women in her position. "Abortion is a right, and if that right is taken away, people like me won't be able to make the choice that is right for their child...," she says. "I couldn't sit back and watch women's rights be chipped away by people who have never walked in these shoes."

>Read the full story.

Dana is a member of NAF’s Patient Partnership, which works to include the voices of women who have had an abortion in the public discussions about this issue.
>Learn more or share your abortion story with us.


Washington Post Profiles Dr. LeRoy Carhart

Today, The Washington Post profiled NAF member Dr. LeRoy Carhart who travels from his home in Nebraska almost every week to provide abortion care in Germantown, MD.

Study Finds Telemedicine a Safe, Effective Abortion Method

According to a new study published in the latest edition of Obstetrics and Gynecology, an abortion method that utilizes telemedicine technology to allow physicians to remotely provide medical abortion care to women is just as effective and acceptable to patients as a face-to-face office visit.

A medical abortion is one that is brought about by taking medications that will end a pregnancy. Even though medical abortion requires no surgery, most states require that a physician “provide” the medical abortion, which means that a doctor must personally counsel each patient before dispensing the medication. Telemedicine allows doctors to complete this counseling remotely using video conferencing. NAF member Planned Parenthood of the Heartland has offered some abortions via telemedicine since 2008 in order to expand the service to women earlier in pregnancy and to those who lived in rural areas without abortion providers.

The study was based on 578 Iowa women who came to Planned Parenthood clinics seeking a medical abortion: 223 of the patients signed up for counseling via telemedicine while 226 opted for face-to-face visits. Ninety-four percent of the women who chose telemedicine reported that they were "very satisfied" with the procedure, and researchers found that women who received this counseling had no more complications than those who had office visits.

The Coat Hanger Project

Today, staff members from the National Abortion Federation held a private viewing of the documentary The Coat Hanger Project, which chronicles the development of the reproductive justice movement in the United States.

Filmmaker Angie Young got the inspiration for the film (and began shooting footage) while working on a campaign to overturn a 2006 South Dakota law banning abortion. Young, like many others, was compelled to go to South Dakota after the state legislature passed sweeping prohibition on abortion care in the state. In response, the South Dakota Campaign for Healthy Families coalition, NAF staffers, volunteers, and activists from across the country descended on Sioux Falls and canvassed, protested, rallied and raged to get this ban overturned.

The Coat Hanger Project provides a critical look at how the South Dakota legislature disregarded the established legal precedent regarding abortion and waged a direct assault on Roe v. Wade. The film also provides an ‘unflinchingly prochoice perspective and shows the world that women can stand strong as advocates for reproductive freedom.’ While working on the documentary, Young traveled extensively in the US and Canada to meet with abortion providers, illegal abortion survivors, activists, educators, artists, and others, and worked 24/7 to complete the documentary in August 2008.

Read more information about The Coat Hanger Project

Read more on NAF’s involvement with the “No on 6” campaign

Wednesday's Words from Women

I am 28 years old and a mother of three children. In February 2010, I fell causing severe nerve, bone, and muscle damage to my back. It took several months to recover, during which my relationship fell apart, I lost my job, I had to move back in with my parents, and I filed for bankruptcy. In the midst of all this, I found out I was pregnant, and my doctor informed me that the medication that I was taking interacted with my birth control. Now is not the right time for this pregnancy. Without NAF and its member clinic in Cleveland, I’d be forced to have a child in horrible circumstances.

--Submitted by Belle* through a member clinic


At this point in my life, things are hard. I have five children ages 23, 19, 13, 8, 3. I love them dearly but I am having a hard time raising my three younger children. Terminating a pregnancy is the last thing that I ever expected to do. I am a single parent and try my best to raise my children. However, another child would not help improve my situation. I used birth control but it was not effective. I have no medical insurance and I cannot afford to raise another child. I thank God that I got assistance with my abortion care.

--Submitted by Mannie* through our website


Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women each Wednesday on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

The Battle for Birth Control

The New Hampshire Executive Council voted to reject up to $1.8 million in funding for the six Planned Parenthood clinics in the state in June, stripping its authority to dispense low-cost birth control and antibiotics to uninsured patients.

As of July 1, low-income patients now have to pay between $40 to over $100 for birth control pills at regular pharmacies.

Although the New Hampshire legislature has failed at their attempts to defund Planned Parenthood in the past, the Executive Council, which usually steers clear of controversial issues, overturned the decision of the state legislature and the Department of Health and Human Services.

The Councilors who voted against the funding said they did so because some of its clinics provide abortions, even though those abortions are entirely privately funded.

Councilor Raymond Wieczorek added that he is opposed to abortion and providing condoms altogether. According to the Huffington Post, Wieczorek also added that, "If they want to have a good time, why not let them pay for it?"