An abortion rights activist admits that the availability of elective ultrasounds leds women to re-consider abortion. This is from message 2113 (Tue Aug 16, 2005) in the Yahoo! Group: Abortion Celebration:
"I believe it was the invention of the ultrasound that is killing the right to choose. Now that people have the ability to see their baby while it's inside your body, it makes it harder to go through with the procedure. Don't get me wrong, I think the ultrasound is wonderful for those who wish to have their baby and it's a great way to see your baby and get excited about it but for those who just want to have an abortion and are already having enough problems with the whole thing, seeing the ultrasound is like twisting the dagger that's already in your stomach."
This poster, and many other pro-choice activists perceive the availability of elective ultrasound to be a threat to abortion rights. Why? While some laws seek to make viewing of the ultrasound mandatory, I don't believe women should be forced to see an ultrasound if they don't want to; however she should be given the option of viewing it if she so desires. If anything ultrasound isn't taking away a woman's ability to choose, but allows her to make an informed decision with information on the development of her pregnancy. Rather the threat is to abortion rights. They acknowledged what we've known all along, there's a developing human child in there and it's not just tissue, and a woman seeing her child on ultrasound could have a profound impact on her decison. A woman may see her developing child in the ultrasound and become emotionally attached, deciding to not have an abortion. But for the woman who's decided to have an abortion, she may have rationed that this decision is for the best, and emotionally seperated herself from her unborn child. To see the ultrasound, she would face that reality the abortion would be ending the life of her unborn child (or potential life) within her, and coming to terms with death is nothing any person wants to do. It's a tough call, because while viewing ones ultrasound may have its benefits, it has negatives as well.
My Life in Reflection
Tuesday, August 16, 2005
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
Rights and Responsibilities
I'm soo tired of hearing the "the fetus is an unwanted intruder" or "forced gestation" argument from pro-choicers. Pregnancy is a normal, biological result of human sexual function and the natural occurance resulting from intercourse. There is no forced gestation -- no outsider's impregnating her against her will (except rape) -- pregnancy is a naturally occuring process resulting from the actions of the two individuals having sexual relations and would most likely develop to term if not interrupted. This is a fact of basic human biology. The fact is, when there is intercourse and/or reproductive bodily fluids are exchanged, even with contraception, there is always a risk that pregnancy may occur. This is how the human body is biologically programed, regardless of whether the woman and her partner have made a conscious decison to not have children. If you're going to have sex, you need to accept the possibility that it could lead to pregnancy or even STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections), regardless of how careful you are. It is incredibly rediculous to claim the embryo/fetus is an unwanted intruder that appeared there suddenly without their willingness or involvement. However our culture has divorced the association between sex and pregnancy, leading to individuals developing the unrealistic idea that pregnancy won't happen to them. And when they do, they're surprised, and not ready to accept the responsibility of the pregnancy or raising the child. This is why the risks and potential consequences of casual sex need to be considered and realistically weighed beforehand.
"With great rights comes great responsibility" - Unknown
"With great rights comes great responsibility" - Unknown
Monday, August 8, 2005
Feminists Views of Abortion as Beneficial Experience for Women
Quoting from Pinko Feminist Hellcat:
I'm not one of those people who decry abortion as a necessary evil. I'm not one of those self-righteous misogynists who would pass judgement on pro-choicers, pregnant women, or women who chose to abort. I don't hate abortion.I think it's wonderful. I think it's wonderful because it frees women from unwanted pregnancies, it keeps women from enduring the risks and complications that can arise from pregnancy, and it gives them say over when they will have children. If ever.
H/T to JivinJehosphat
It seems Pinko Feminist Hellcat has this notion that opposing the act of abortion is passing judgement on women who've had an abortion (not necessarily true). And by condoning abortion, she is supporting the women who've had one. It's an abstract thought. Showing real support for a woman who's had an abortion would be physically, in person taking care of her after the procedure and comforting her, regardless of whether or not her feelings support your political agenda. Her utopian idea that abortion is always a wonderful experience is a little off. First of all, having an abortion doesn't magically solve the issues or circumstances surrounding the unplanned pregnancy. Also, it's important to note that not all women experience life-threatening pregnancy complications, just like not all women have a complicated abortion. In addition, rather than abortion as the pat treatment, prenatal care and early diagnosis and treatment of pregnancy related complications is the key to a positive woman's health and childbearing. Also, it's misleading to portray all women as happily skipping out of the abortion clinic, happy with their decision. For every positive abortion story out there, there's a difficult abortion and reverse, because every women's individual situation and experience may be different. Also, most women don't take the decision to have an abortion lightly.
I'm not one of those people who decry abortion as a necessary evil. I'm not one of those self-righteous misogynists who would pass judgement on pro-choicers, pregnant women, or women who chose to abort. I don't hate abortion.I think it's wonderful. I think it's wonderful because it frees women from unwanted pregnancies, it keeps women from enduring the risks and complications that can arise from pregnancy, and it gives them say over when they will have children. If ever.
H/T to JivinJehosphat
It seems Pinko Feminist Hellcat has this notion that opposing the act of abortion is passing judgement on women who've had an abortion (not necessarily true). And by condoning abortion, she is supporting the women who've had one. It's an abstract thought. Showing real support for a woman who's had an abortion would be physically, in person taking care of her after the procedure and comforting her, regardless of whether or not her feelings support your political agenda. Her utopian idea that abortion is always a wonderful experience is a little off. First of all, having an abortion doesn't magically solve the issues or circumstances surrounding the unplanned pregnancy. Also, it's important to note that not all women experience life-threatening pregnancy complications, just like not all women have a complicated abortion. In addition, rather than abortion as the pat treatment, prenatal care and early diagnosis and treatment of pregnancy related complications is the key to a positive woman's health and childbearing. Also, it's misleading to portray all women as happily skipping out of the abortion clinic, happy with their decision. For every positive abortion story out there, there's a difficult abortion and reverse, because every women's individual situation and experience may be different. Also, most women don't take the decision to have an abortion lightly.
Friday, July 15, 2005
Mercy, Compassion, and Forgiveness for the Post-Abortion Woman
I came across this awesome quote from a pro-life visitor to the contraversial website of Operation Rescue West (don't even get me started on their negative impact on the pro-life movement):
Sunflower wrote:
"judge and you shall be judged" [Bible]
'Ultimately we should not be judging anyone for their sins or actions, but we should however be forgiving them and hope they can forgive themselves. We should be compassionate for whatever their "sins" might be, especially in the case of abortion, where no one knows what might bring a "mother to be" to come to such decision!'
I completely agree with this. It is not our place to judge. Especially if she is feeling hurt, loss, regret, or sorrow, she doesn't need salt rubbed into her wounds (metaphorically speaking) But nor do we have to condone the sin to love the sinner. "Hate the sin but not the sinner" [Bible, I need to look up the verse) I reassure you that we don't have to condone abortion to give compassion and mercy to the woman facing an unplanned pregnancy or who have chosen abortion. This is the attitude more of the pro-life movement needs to take on.
On an additional note, there's a grieving post-abortion woman on Feminist Forum needing support. As I was following a referral link to my web journal from a Google search of abortion regrets, I found a grieving post-abortion woman's post at feminist forum in the UK.
She originally wrote: "I already have a nine year old daughter and have a very good job and am still with my daughters father, but i fell pregnant in feb and had a abortion and now i feel so gulity. I was given the injection that last three months and it will be over may 12 i want i have a baby now because i now feel that ishouldnt have done it. what shall i do?"
She received a lot responses from pro-choicers and prolifers condemning to indefferent (telling her to "seek forgiveness" and to "get over it").
http://www.femalefirst.co.uk/board/about21348-0-asc-0.html
Her original post is a few months old, however another greiving post-abortion woman posted in June. These ladies could use some supportive and encouraging words among the highly political responses.
Sunflower wrote:
"judge and you shall be judged" [Bible]
'Ultimately we should not be judging anyone for their sins or actions, but we should however be forgiving them and hope they can forgive themselves. We should be compassionate for whatever their "sins" might be, especially in the case of abortion, where no one knows what might bring a "mother to be" to come to such decision!'
I completely agree with this. It is not our place to judge. Especially if she is feeling hurt, loss, regret, or sorrow, she doesn't need salt rubbed into her wounds (metaphorically speaking) But nor do we have to condone the sin to love the sinner. "Hate the sin but not the sinner" [Bible, I need to look up the verse) I reassure you that we don't have to condone abortion to give compassion and mercy to the woman facing an unplanned pregnancy or who have chosen abortion. This is the attitude more of the pro-life movement needs to take on.
On an additional note, there's a grieving post-abortion woman on Feminist Forum needing support. As I was following a referral link to my web journal from a Google search of abortion regrets, I found a grieving post-abortion woman's post at feminist forum in the UK.
She originally wrote: "I already have a nine year old daughter and have a very good job and am still with my daughters father, but i fell pregnant in feb and had a abortion and now i feel so gulity. I was given the injection that last three months and it will be over may 12 i want i have a baby now because i now feel that ishouldnt have done it. what shall i do?"
She received a lot responses from pro-choicers and prolifers condemning to indefferent (telling her to "seek forgiveness" and to "get over it").
http://www.femalefirst.co.uk/board/about21348-0-asc-0.html
Her original post is a few months old, however another greiving post-abortion woman posted in June. These ladies could use some supportive and encouraging words among the highly political responses.
Friday, July 1, 2005
Hyperemesis Gravidarum: It's Beyond Morning Sickness.
Hyperemesis gravidarum is a rare condition adversly affecting pregnant women, where nausea and vomiting is excessive and severe to the point a woman and her unborn baby's health can be adversely affected. It is not the same thing as your typical morning sickess. But you don't have to suffer through this alone. I hope to help you by connecting you with information, support, and resources on dealing specifically with hyperemesis gravidarum.
Defined by Rare Diseases.org:
"Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a rare disorder characterized by severe and persistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that may necessitate hospitalization. As a result of frequent nausea and vomiting, affected women experience dehydration, vitamin and mineral deficit, and the loss of greater than five percent of their original body weight."
An article from a Ugandan newspaper about hyperemesis gravidarum:
Morning Sickness: The Ignored Killer
H/T to After Abortion for the link
Informational and Professional Websites:
Beyond Morning Sickness: Battling Hyperemesis Gravidarum
The website, named for the book written by Ashli McCall, contains resources as well as a support forum for women suffering from HG.
Body Mutiny: Extreme Morning Sickness.com
"Through this website, hyperemesis survivor Jenna Schmitt recalls her high-risk pregnancy, offering insights and education that speak volumes to pregnant women and their families. In particular, those suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum or any other complication will find understanding and inspiration here. Jenna’s pregnancy has produced her first book entitled Body Mutiny: Surviving Nine Months of Extreme Morning Sickness. In a powerful mix of poetry and prose, she takes you through 40 harrowing weeks of a hyperemesis pregnancy."
Take Two Crackers...
"Approximately two-thirds of all pregnant women experience some form of morning sickness either at the beginning or throughout the duration of their pregnancy. Our goal is to introduce lifestyle modifications and increase nutrition awareness to help reduce morning sickness during your pregnancy. Miriam Erick has pioneered the modern discussion of truly effective diet and lifestyle modifications that help women tolerate morning sickness during pregnancy. She is an experienced Registered Dietitian (Clinical Obstetrics, Rheumatology, General Surgery and Orthopedic). Her approach to morning sickness is explained in her informative, eye-opening book "Take Two Crackers and Call Me in the Morning!".
HER Foundation: Hyperemesis Education and Research
The HER Foundation provides education & support for mothers suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum and those who care for them.
Blooming Awful
The UK hyperemesis gravidarum awareness group
Hyperemesis Gravidarum.com
A personal website with basic information on the condition and available treatment options.
HuGs: Hyperemesis Gravidarum Survivors
A personal website with women's stories, medical information (i.e. treatment options and dietary information), and a support message board.
HG Help Boards
A support forum for the women and their families suffering from HG
Motherisk: Resources for Nausea
Offers facts and resources on morning sickness through a publication on nausea research; offers a toll-free helpline for North America.
Matria Health Care: Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy
Information for Women and Clinical Practice Guidelines for Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy
Prepared by the Obstetrics Committee of the SOGC (requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)
http://www.sogc.org/health/pregnancy-nausea_e.asp
http://www.sogc.org/guidelines/public/120E-CPG-October2002.pdf
eMedicine Health - Vomiting During Pregnancy
Learn about causes, diagnosis and treatment options
Hyperemesis Gravidarum
by Richard Chudacoff, M.D.
Mothering.com: Discussion of Alternative Treatments for Hyperemesis
HG Supplies, Pharmaceuticals and Supplement Product Pages:
Her Foundation: Common HG Medications
Morning Sickness Help
Various products including vitamin suckers, discreet vomiting bag, and aromatherapy for lessening the effects of morning sickness.
Women Share Their Personal Stories:
Baby, You're Making Me Sick!
"I am a happy wife and a mother to two adorable little boys. I had severe Hyperemesis Gravidarum during both of my pregnancies. I started this blog so I can share my own memories and experiences with the other .03%-2.0% of pregnant women who are experiencing this unrelenting illness."
Building My Baby
"A blog following me through the ups, downs, joys, and woes of pregnancy"
Getting Personal With HG
"This blog will detail my journey through HG. It may not be the most uplifting thing to read or view every day, but it's important to spread awareness about this disease, which often goes undiagnosed."
Hyperemesis Gravidarum: a diary
Journal of a Ashli McCall's 4th experience with hyperemesis gravidarum
My Hyperemesis: Anna's Blog
"This is a collection of information I have gathered through my experience with HG and postpartum residual nausea. My goal is to raise awareness about this understudied, misunderstood pregnancy illness."
Christa's HGStory
One woman's story in her struggle with HG during her first pregnancy, with a husband who stayed by her side
Island of Grief, Mountain of Joy
The story of a woman's triumph, tragedy and hopefully more triumphs with Hyperemesis Gravardium. Often a misunderstood, misdiagnosed and mistreated disease
Knocked Up-Knocked Over: My Journey Through Hyperemesis Gravidarum
A woman details her journey through HG. It may not be the most uplifting thing to read every day, but it's important to spread awareness about this disease, which often goes undiagnosed.
The S.I.C.L.E. Cell
A blog by Ashli McCall, author of Beyond Morning Sickness, who suffered from severe hyperemesis gravidarum during a previous pregnancy. Following the advice of her doctor and relatives, she relented into a late-term abortion, ending the very much wanted pregnancy. Her blog consists of her personal experience and insights of her situation, as well as healing from the abortion.
The Whinning Puker
Thoughts, agitations and cogitations of a 27-year old woman considering a second pregnancy while pondering the likelihood of a recurrence of hyperemesis gravidarum.
Defined by Rare Diseases.org:
"Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a rare disorder characterized by severe and persistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that may necessitate hospitalization. As a result of frequent nausea and vomiting, affected women experience dehydration, vitamin and mineral deficit, and the loss of greater than five percent of their original body weight."
An article from a Ugandan newspaper about hyperemesis gravidarum:
Morning Sickness: The Ignored Killer
H/T to After Abortion for the link
Informational and Professional Websites:
Beyond Morning Sickness: Battling Hyperemesis Gravidarum
The website, named for the book written by Ashli McCall, contains resources as well as a support forum for women suffering from HG.
Body Mutiny: Extreme Morning Sickness.com
"Through this website, hyperemesis survivor Jenna Schmitt recalls her high-risk pregnancy, offering insights and education that speak volumes to pregnant women and their families. In particular, those suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum or any other complication will find understanding and inspiration here. Jenna’s pregnancy has produced her first book entitled Body Mutiny: Surviving Nine Months of Extreme Morning Sickness. In a powerful mix of poetry and prose, she takes you through 40 harrowing weeks of a hyperemesis pregnancy."
Take Two Crackers...
"Approximately two-thirds of all pregnant women experience some form of morning sickness either at the beginning or throughout the duration of their pregnancy. Our goal is to introduce lifestyle modifications and increase nutrition awareness to help reduce morning sickness during your pregnancy. Miriam Erick has pioneered the modern discussion of truly effective diet and lifestyle modifications that help women tolerate morning sickness during pregnancy. She is an experienced Registered Dietitian (Clinical Obstetrics, Rheumatology, General Surgery and Orthopedic). Her approach to morning sickness is explained in her informative, eye-opening book "Take Two Crackers and Call Me in the Morning!".
HER Foundation: Hyperemesis Education and Research
The HER Foundation provides education & support for mothers suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum and those who care for them.
Blooming Awful
The UK hyperemesis gravidarum awareness group
Hyperemesis Gravidarum.com
A personal website with basic information on the condition and available treatment options.
HuGs: Hyperemesis Gravidarum Survivors
A personal website with women's stories, medical information (i.e. treatment options and dietary information), and a support message board.
HG Help Boards
A support forum for the women and their families suffering from HG
Motherisk: Resources for Nausea
Offers facts and resources on morning sickness through a publication on nausea research; offers a toll-free helpline for North America.
Matria Health Care: Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy
Information for Women and Clinical Practice Guidelines for Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy
Prepared by the Obstetrics Committee of the SOGC (requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)
http://www.sogc.org/health/pregnancy-nausea_e.asp
http://www.sogc.org/guidelines/public/120E-CPG-October2002.pdf
eMedicine Health - Vomiting During Pregnancy
Learn about causes, diagnosis and treatment options
Hyperemesis Gravidarum
by Richard Chudacoff, M.D.
Mothering.com: Discussion of Alternative Treatments for Hyperemesis
HG Supplies, Pharmaceuticals and Supplement Product Pages:
Her Foundation: Common HG Medications
Morning Sickness Help
Various products including vitamin suckers, discreet vomiting bag, and aromatherapy for lessening the effects of morning sickness.
Women Share Their Personal Stories:
Baby, You're Making Me Sick!
"I am a happy wife and a mother to two adorable little boys. I had severe Hyperemesis Gravidarum during both of my pregnancies. I started this blog so I can share my own memories and experiences with the other .03%-2.0% of pregnant women who are experiencing this unrelenting illness."
Building My Baby
"A blog following me through the ups, downs, joys, and woes of pregnancy"
Getting Personal With HG
"This blog will detail my journey through HG. It may not be the most uplifting thing to read or view every day, but it's important to spread awareness about this disease, which often goes undiagnosed."
Hyperemesis Gravidarum: a diary
Journal of a Ashli McCall's 4th experience with hyperemesis gravidarum
My Hyperemesis: Anna's Blog
"This is a collection of information I have gathered through my experience with HG and postpartum residual nausea. My goal is to raise awareness about this understudied, misunderstood pregnancy illness."
Christa's HGStory
One woman's story in her struggle with HG during her first pregnancy, with a husband who stayed by her side
Island of Grief, Mountain of Joy
The story of a woman's triumph, tragedy and hopefully more triumphs with Hyperemesis Gravardium. Often a misunderstood, misdiagnosed and mistreated disease
Knocked Up-Knocked Over: My Journey Through Hyperemesis Gravidarum
A woman details her journey through HG. It may not be the most uplifting thing to read every day, but it's important to spread awareness about this disease, which often goes undiagnosed.
The S.I.C.L.E. Cell
A blog by Ashli McCall, author of Beyond Morning Sickness, who suffered from severe hyperemesis gravidarum during a previous pregnancy. Following the advice of her doctor and relatives, she relented into a late-term abortion, ending the very much wanted pregnancy. Her blog consists of her personal experience and insights of her situation, as well as healing from the abortion.
The Whinning Puker
Thoughts, agitations and cogitations of a 27-year old woman considering a second pregnancy while pondering the likelihood of a recurrence of hyperemesis gravidarum.
Monday, June 13, 2005
Self-Induced Abortion or Domestic Violence?
Teen Gets Life Sentence For Helping Girlfriend End Pregnancy
The case of the teen girl in Texas who asked her boyfriend to stomp on her stomach to end her pregnancy has become national news. Pro-choice activists cry, "This girl had to resort to self-inflected abortion when she didn't have access to a safe and legal abortion." while pro-life activists cry "Charge the boyfriend for murder of the unborn babies". On June 7th, the boyfriend was prosecuted under the state's new fetal protection law and given a life sentence. But it seems the case isn't that simple.
According to the Family Violence Prevention Fund: Reproductive Health and Violence Fact Sheet
"Each year, about 324,000 pregnant women in this country are battered by their intimate partners.(v) That makes abuse is more common for pregnant women than gestational diabetes or preeclampsia -- conditions for which pregnant women are routinely screened. However, few physicians screen pregnant patients for abuse.(vi)
Women with unplanned pregnancies have a two to four times greater risk for violence than women whose pregnancies were planned.(vii)
No fewer than a quarter of adolescent mothers experience intimate partner violence before, during, or just after their pregnancy, with some studies reporting rates of 50 to 80 percent.(xi) "
____________________________________
v. Gazmararian JA; et al. 2000. .Violence and Reproductive Health; Current Knowledge and Future Research
Directions.. Maternal and Child Health Journal. 4(2):79-84.
vi. Parsons, L., et.al. .Violence Against Women and Reproductive Health: Toward Defining a Role for ReproductiveHealth Care Services.. Maternal and Child Health JournalVol. 4, No. 2, pg. 135. 2000.
vii. Rabasca, Lisa. .More Research is Needed on Violence and Reproduction.. American Psychological Association
Monitor. Vol. 30, No. 8. September 8, 1999. available at http://www.apa.org/monitor/sep99/pi1.html.
xi. Leiderman, Sally and Cair Almo. 2001. Interpersonal Violence and Adolescent Pregnancy: Prevalence and Implications for Practice and Policy. Center for Assessment and Policy Development and the National Organization on Adolescent Pregnancy, Parenting, and Prevention.
See here and here for a list of signs of abuse. Although the focus of the article is on the politics of abortion, there are plenty of red-flags of abuse. Should the boyfriend have been better investigated for perpertrating abuse, definatly! Should he have been prosecuted for domestic violence? Depending on the results of the investigation. Unfortuantly, now we will probably never know. I believe there needs to be more awareness and education on domestic violence in the media.
Update 9-30-05
The teenager who caused his girlfriend to miscarry by repeatedly whacking her in the belly with a baseball bat has been sentenced to serve 200 hours of community service in a pro-life pregnancy center, after his conviction prompted objections.
The case of the teen girl in Texas who asked her boyfriend to stomp on her stomach to end her pregnancy has become national news. Pro-choice activists cry, "This girl had to resort to self-inflected abortion when she didn't have access to a safe and legal abortion." while pro-life activists cry "Charge the boyfriend for murder of the unborn babies". On June 7th, the boyfriend was prosecuted under the state's new fetal protection law and given a life sentence. But it seems the case isn't that simple.
Correction Time From Feminst BlogsI agree, it looks like a case of domestic violence. In the original story Houston Press:Stomped Out)...
"It looks like there's a very good chance that this homemade abortion was the last incident in a string of abusive encounters. The boy admitted to hitting the girl in the past to keep her from berating him, and the hospital report indicates that she was hit on the face and had a huge bruise on her arm from someone grabbing her. This casts doubt on her story that she wanted to abort the pregnancy so much as it was lost after her boyfriend beat her. The girl had, after all, been keeping up her doctor's appointments. From the affidavits, it looks like parental notification wasn't an issue. "My mom, my sister and my sister-in-law all said that I should get an abortion," Erica stated in an affidavit last July. "They said that I was too young to have children. Jerry and his family did not want me to get an abortion, and they asked me to move in with him in Jerry's house." This entire case is disturbing on a number of levels. First of all, it's disturbing that it was so widely reported as a simple issue of two teenagers getting caught doing a homemade abortion, when it's very likely that instead it was closer to the all-too-typical scenario of domestic violence escalating due to a pregnancy. But the prosecution carries a lot of the blame in that--instead of treating this incident for what it most likely was, which is a case of domestic violence leading to a miscarriage and prosecuting the young man for hurting his girlfriend, they grandstanded on the whole abortion bullshit instead of standing up for the young woman who was victimized in all this."
According to the Family Violence Prevention Fund: Reproductive Health and Violence Fact Sheet
"Each year, about 324,000 pregnant women in this country are battered by their intimate partners.(v) That makes abuse is more common for pregnant women than gestational diabetes or preeclampsia -- conditions for which pregnant women are routinely screened. However, few physicians screen pregnant patients for abuse.(vi)
Women with unplanned pregnancies have a two to four times greater risk for violence than women whose pregnancies were planned.(vii)
No fewer than a quarter of adolescent mothers experience intimate partner violence before, during, or just after their pregnancy, with some studies reporting rates of 50 to 80 percent.(xi) "
____________________________________
v. Gazmararian JA; et al. 2000. .Violence and Reproductive Health; Current Knowledge and Future Research
Directions.. Maternal and Child Health Journal. 4(2):79-84.
vi. Parsons, L., et.al. .Violence Against Women and Reproductive Health: Toward Defining a Role for ReproductiveHealth Care Services.. Maternal and Child Health JournalVol. 4, No. 2, pg. 135. 2000.
vii. Rabasca, Lisa. .More Research is Needed on Violence and Reproduction.. American Psychological Association
Monitor. Vol. 30, No. 8. September 8, 1999. available at http://www.apa.org/monitor/sep99/pi1.html.
xi. Leiderman, Sally and Cair Almo. 2001. Interpersonal Violence and Adolescent Pregnancy: Prevalence and Implications for Practice and Policy. Center for Assessment and Policy Development and the National Organization on Adolescent Pregnancy, Parenting, and Prevention.
See here and here for a list of signs of abuse. Although the focus of the article is on the politics of abortion, there are plenty of red-flags of abuse. Should the boyfriend have been better investigated for perpertrating abuse, definatly! Should he have been prosecuted for domestic violence? Depending on the results of the investigation. Unfortuantly, now we will probably never know. I believe there needs to be more awareness and education on domestic violence in the media.
Update 9-30-05
The teenager who caused his girlfriend to miscarry by repeatedly whacking her in the belly with a baseball bat has been sentenced to serve 200 hours of community service in a pro-life pregnancy center, after his conviction prompted objections.
MOUNT CLEMENS -- A teenage boy convicted of striking his girlfriend with a baseball bat to end her pregnancy has been sentenced to 200 hours of community service at a pro-life pregnancy center, drawing objections from his lawyer and his family.H/T to AfterAbortion
Macomb Circuit Judge Matthew Switalski on Thursday sentenced the 17-year-old Richmond teen to two years probation and community service at Compassion Pregnancy Centers, which has two locations in Macomb County.
The youth -- who pleaded no contest in August to hitting his 16-year-old girlfriend in the stomach with her consent to cause a miscarriage -- hugged the girl in the hallway outside the courtroom after the sentencing. The teens' names are being withheld because they are juveniles.
According to Compassion Pregnancy Centers' Web site, the center is "directed by the Holy Spirit, will encourage and comfort women and their families who face a crisis pregnancy by: extending Christ-like compassion and the soul-saving good news of salvation; giving spiritual, emotional and physical support and educating about life issues."
http://www.detnews.com/2005/metro/0509/30/B01-332781.htm
Thursday, June 2, 2005
Just for Fun: Star Wars Quizes
Fun quizes to give us a break from the daily grind.
You scored as Obi-Wan Kenobi. Obi-Wan Kenobi: The Mentor.
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| Which Star Wars Original Trilogy Hero Are You? created with QuizFarm.com You scored as Luke Skywalker. You are the Jedi Knight Luke Skywalker. You have just left the moisture farm, and the time has come to take up the great tradition of sorcery and wisdom that comes with being a Jedi. Plus that cool lightsaber you get to use.
Which Revenge of the Sith Character are you? created with QuizFarm.com
Light Jedi or Dark Jedi? created with QuizFarm.com |
You scored as neutral. You're neither. You're not quite good enough to be part of the Light Jedi. However, you're also not evil enough to join the Dark Side. You don't really fit in anywhere- you'd never be committed enough to be part of The Light Side, and you'd get your ass kicked on the Dark Side. Oh well, neutral people never appear in the movies much anyways...
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Thursday, May 19, 2005
Abortion Recovery Resources
This is a directory of healing resources for recovery from an abortion or other pregnancy loss experience. Individuals who've experience a pregnancy loss may experience any number of feelings and emotions. However, if you find yourself or someone you love struggling or seeking closure following your pregnancy loss, know that you/they are not alone. Below you will find organizations, websites, and books of diverse beliefs and practices which offers support, guidance, and in some cases, professional counseling. No one will judge you or try to make you believe anything, they have been where you are and are there support you. But as you investigate the resources listed here, keep in mind that not every program is a good fit for every person. I encourage you to choose recovery resources which fit your values and beliefs system and where you feel safe, comfortable and welcome
Emergencies:
If you have recently had an abortion and are having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, please call a suicide hotline at 1 800 784 2433 (1-800-SUICIDE) 1-800-SUICIDE, or contact Befrienders International or The Samaritans right now, or call a friend who can stay with you until you can get help!
Some women are overwhelmed with the feelings that come after abortion, if you are in that place be gentle with yourself.
Disclaimer: This directory is for informational purposes only. Not all organizations and individuals listed will be/are professional counselors. No representation is made or warranty given to each organization or individual listed herein regarding content, conditions, type of healing program or services. Use at your own discretion.
Faith-Based Counseling/Support Groups:
United States:
National Office of Post-Abortion Reconciliation and Healing
National office of Project Rachel, a ministry of the Catholic Church composed of a network of specially trained clergy, spiritual directors and therapists who provide compassionate care to those who are struggling with the aftermath of abortion. Provides confidential help to women and men of all faiths. For referrals to support groups and out reaches of various denominations, contact the national referral number.
Toll-free number: 1-800-5WE-CARE (national referrals number)
PO Box 070477
Milwaukee, WI 53207-0477
Telephone Number: (414) 483-4141
National Post-Abortion Hotline
The hotline is exclusively staffed by women who have themselves had an abortion. You can talk to a trained consultant who has also experienced the pain of abortion, but has found hope and healing. All calls are free and confidential.
Toll-free number: 1-866-482-LIFE (1-866-482-5433)
Rachel's Vineyard Ministries
Offers post-abortion healing and support through weekend retreats and support groups at many sites across the U.S. and abroad. Provides leadership and clinical training seminars, conferences, publications and resources for other healing ministries that wish to offer the retreats. Current retreat dates and locations are listed on the web site.
Toll-free number: 1-877-HOPE-4-ME (1-877-467-3463)
PO Box 195
Bridgeport, PA 19405
Hope Alive, USA
Hope Alive group treatment programs for those deeply hurt by childhood traumas and pregnancy losses. Provides referrals to trained counselors for those desiring the 30 week treatment program.
52 Walney Drive
Bella Vista, AR 72715-2380
Phone Number: 1-479-855-0072
Luminara
Luminara is a post abortion referral network. We know that no matter what your beliefs you can experience many conflicting emotions, if you, or someone close to you has had an abortion. We are committed to getting you the help you need to work through these feelings.
PO Box 242
Harrison, NY 10528
Tel: 1-877-586-4621
Email: lumina@postabortionhelp.org
Save One
Our mission is to reach men and women who are suffering in silence after an abortion. Our passion is to help men and women reclaim and restore their peace of mind and self-worth. SaveOne will give you the necessary tools to assist in rebuilding your life. We offer help through group study, one-on-one help, or answering questions and giving encouragement through self-study.
Call 501-681-8979
E-mail: info@saveone.org
Fathers and Brothers Ministries
Provides Support, counseling, and information for men who experienced abortion-related pregnancy loss.
350 Broadway, Suite 40
Boulder, CO 80303
Phone Number: (303) 494-3282
International:
Abortion Recovery Directory International
A wealth of information from feelings you may be experiencing after abortion, stories from those affected by their own or a loved one's abortion and a site locator to find abortion recovery resources near you.
Toll-free number: 1-866-4-MY-RECOVERY
Ramah International
Seeks to bring post-abortive individuals to Christ's Healing, and supports post-abortion ministry through training programs, resources, research, and promoting awareness of post-abortion issues around the world.
1776 Hudson St.
Englewood, FL 34223
Phone Number: 1-941-473-2188
CareNet International
Provides referrals for individual or group Christian post abortion peer counseling services throughout the United States and abroad.
Toll-free Number: 1-800-395-HELP
Care Confidential (United Kingdom)
Offers The Journey, a sensitive one-to-one or group programme that supports you and equips you to deal with the emotions involved, helping you to find the resources you need to relate to your experience more healthily.
Tel freephone 0800 028 2228
Options Chester (United Kingdom - Chester)
For post abortion support, this service is free, confidential and provided by trained advisors
Tel: 01244 390 193
Abortion Changes You
A confidential space of sharing and finding healing and closure for those who are touched by abortion, whether the experience happened recently or years ago.
The Stacy Zallie Post-Abortion Comfort Portal
The Stacy Zallie Foundation’s mission is to assist women who have made the difficult choice of ending their pregnancy in finding a caring, non-judgemental resourse to help restore their happiness and reconnect with their loved ones and their future.
Healing After Abortion
A Christian-based website dedicated to help women on their journey of healing after abortion. Discusses topics such as grief, loss, healing, medical issues, and stigma.
SafeHaven Ministries
Provides online recovery support and hope and healing for post-abortive men and women. SafeHaven is a Christian-based, privately run site. The site is for anyone who has chosen abortion(s) and is struggling with the aftermath, even if they believe it was still the right choice for them. Because SafeHaven Ministries is a support site and members are of diverse beliefs, debating the moral or political issues associated with abortion is not permitted. The message board and chat room are moderated.
Healing Hearts Ministries
Offers e-mail and support group counseling to those suffering the effects of abortion.
Last Harvest Ministries Inc.
Provides Christian-based online recovery support to men and women suffering from the aftermath of abortion and related life-dominating issues.
Life After Abortion
This website was created in February 2003 and is a place where post-abortion men and women can get useful information--resources, be able to talk to others who have gone through the same difficulties, and find hope for the future. Also this is an almost daily news column about what could loosely be called "the post-abortion movement." This includes the ministries and events that focus on the negative emotional and spiritual aftermath of abortion.
Secular Counseling/Support Groups:
Exhale (A pro-choice post-abortion recovery resource)
"At Exhale, we believe abortion is a normal experience in the reproductive lives of women and girls. We also believe that feelings of relief, sadness, happiness, grief, empowerment, shame, confusion and guilt are normal too. If you had an abortion, we know it can be hard to talk about and that finding the right person to talk with can be even harder. Exhale is here to listen - without judgment, without bias, and without a political or moral agenda. All calls are free and confidential. Exhale is designed to support you and your experience." The talkline operates in the San Francisco Bay Area, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. through a toll-free number
Phone number: 1-866-4-EXHALE.
A couple of women's experience with Exhale
Feedback from callers at the Exhale site
PASS Awareness Site (A pro-choice post-abortion recovery resource)
Provides neutral, non-judgmental, non-religious, non- political on-line support, information, help and healing for women who have had an abortion. The site provides "peer support" from other women who've had an abortion, volunteer helpers, and online information about physical and emotional post-abortion recovery. Also offers support for partners and family members of women. Seeks to have post-abortion syndrome recognized as a medical issue for women, not a political or religious one. Because this is a support site and members are of diverse beliefs, debating the moral or political issues associated with abortion is not permitted.
IMAGINE Counseling
It is our philosophy that all therapy is a process of learning to do self healing. We serve as guide, support, and witness for whatever process you may need. Some work may be short term--one or several sessions pertaining to a specific issue. “We can help you uncover your own internal wisdom and power to create the peace and passion that is eluding you. You can learn skills and tools that will assist you in any of life's stresses. Our practice is primarily conducted over the phone, which allows flexibility in scheduling rarely available with an office practice. This also allows us to bring our special experience to people regardless of their geographical location. Call (505) 757-2991 to schedule a free half hour consultation to see if we can help you find healing .
Abortion Conversation Project, Inc.
ACP's website encourages conversations about abortion with FAQ, articles of interests and conversation guides.
Abortion Chronicles
Women share their abortion stories
Project Voice
Write anonymously about your abortion experience and read a range of other women's stories.
Pregnancy Loss Memorials:
Suggestions for Recognizing the Loss and Memorializing the Potential Child
Honored Babies Online Memorial and Pregnancy Loss Site
Online Pamphlets on Abortion Loss and Healing:
A Guide to Emotional and Spiritual Resolution
After an Abortion
Inner Healing After Abortion
When the Pain Won't Go Away: Dealing with the Aftereffects of Abortion
After Your Abortion: a natural response
Grief - Grieving Your Losses
Books - Self-Help Recovery & Healing from Abortion Loss for Women:
Being at Peace with Choices (Audio CD)
with Dr. Carol Robin
Guided CDs Inc. / 2006
C.P.R.: Choice Processing and Resolution
by Trudy Johnson
Paperback / Outskirts Press / August 2009
A Difficult Decision: A Compassionate Book About Abortion
by Joy Gardner
Paperback / Crossing Press / September 1986
The Healing Choice: Your Guide to Emotional Recovery After an Abortion
by Candace De Puy, Dana Dovitch
Paperback / Fireside / March 1997
Living with Your Choice: An Inner Healing for Abortion (Audio Cassette)
by Eric Alan Braun
Cas & Bklt edition / Applied Wisdom Corp / January 1990
No One Told Me I Could Cry: A Teens Guide to Hope and Healing After Abortion
by Connie Nykiel
Paperback / For Teen Moms Only / December 1997
PASS Recovery Steps Workbook
by Jill Savin
Paperback / Jill Savin / July 2004
Peace after Abortion
by Ava Torre-Bueno
Paperback / Pimpernel Press / 1997
The Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Sourcebook: A Guide to Healing, Recovery, and Growth by Glenn R. Schiraldi
Paperback /McGraw-Hill /March 2009
Books - Self-Help Recovery & Healing from Abortion Loss for Men:
Changed: Making Sense of Your Own or a Loved One's Abortion Experience
by Michaelene Fredenburg
Hardcover / Perspectives / 2008
Fatherhood Aborted
by Guy Condon, David Hazard
Paperback / Tyndale House Publishers / July 2001
Men and Abortion: A Path to Healing
by C.T. Coyle
Paperback / Life Cycle Books / April 30, 1999
Redeeming A Father's Heart: Men Share Powerful Stories of Abortion Loss and Recovery
by Kevin Burke LSW, David Wemhoff, Marvin Stockwell
Paperback / AuthorHouse / May 2007
Books - Spirituality-Based Recovery & Healing from Abortion Loss for Women and Men:
Aborted Women: Silent No More
by David C. Reardon, Nancyjo Mann
Paperback or Hardback / Acorn Publishing / January 2002
Abortion & Healing: A Cry to Be Whole
by Michael T. Mannion
Paperback / Sheed & Ward; 2nd edition / April 1986
Changed: Making Sense of Your Own or a Loved One's Abortion Experience
by Michaelene Fredenburg
Hardcover / Perspectives / 2008
Do Not Lose Hope: Healing the Wounded Heart of Women Who Have Had Abortions
by William F., Reverend Maestri
Paperback / Alba House / January 2000
Forbidden Grief: The Unspoken Pain of Abortion
by Theresa Burke, David C. Reardon
Hardcover / Acorn Books / June 2002
Forgiven and Set Free: A Post-Abortion Bible Study for Women
by Linda Cochrane
Paperback / Baker Book House / 1999
Healing a Fathers Heart: A Post-Abortion Bible Study for Men
by Linda Cochrane, Kathy Jones
Paperback / Baker Book House / November 1996
Healing after Abortion
by David Powlison
Paperback / New Growth Press / July 2008
Her Choice to Heal: Finding Spiritual and Emotional Peace After Abortion
by Sydna Masse, Joan Phillips
Paperback / Chariot Victor Publishing / November 1998
The Inner Dance: A Guide to Spiritual and Psychological Unfolding
by Diana Mariechild
Paperback / Crossing Press / September 1987
The Jericho Plan: Breaking Down the Walls Which Prevent Post-Abortion Healing
by David C. Reardon, Theresa Burke, Laura C. Schlessinger
Paperback / Acorn Books / November 1996
Rachel's Vineyard: A Psychological and Spiritual Journey of Post-Abortion Healing : A Model for Groups
by Theresa Karminski Burke, Barbara Cullen
Paperback / Alba House / July 1995
Saveone: A Guide to Emotional Healing After Abortion
by Sheila Harper
Hardcover / 2003
A Season to Heal
by Luci Freed Penny, Yvonne Salazar
Paperback / Cumberland House / June 1996
A Solitary Sorrow
by Teri Reisser, Dr. Paul Reisser
Paperback / Shaw / March 2000
Soul Crisis
by Sue Nathanson
Hardcover or Paperback / Signet / August 1990
You're Not Alone : Healing Through God's Grace After Abortion
by Jennifer O'Neill
Paperback / Faith Communications / January 1, 2005
Books - Shared Stories of Healing:
Abortion: My Choice, God's Grace: Christian Women Tell Their Stories
by Anne Eggebroten
Paperbaxck / Hope Publishing House / April 1994
Broken into Beautiful: How God Restores the Wounded Heart
by Gwen Smith
Paperback / Harvest House Publishers / July 2008
Can't Keep Silent: A Woman's 22-Year Journey of Post-Abortion Healing
by Lydia A. Clarke
Paperback / Tate Publishing & Enterprises / January 2006
Catholic Women & Abortion: Stories of Healing
by Pat King
Paperback / Sheed and Ward / July 1994
Experiencing Abortion: A Weaving of Women's Words
by Eve Kushner
Paperback or Hardback / Haworth Press / June 1997
Giving Sorrow Words: Women's Stories of Grief After Abortion
by Melinda Tankard Reist
Paperback / Duffy & Snellgrove / July 2000
Lady Liberty A Post-Abortive Story Of Healing
by Julie Weber
Paperback / Weber Publishing / 2004
Make Me Your Choice: Compelling Personal Stories of Struggle and Healing from Those Who Have Had or Dealt with Abortion
by Cheryl Chew
Paperback / Destiny Image Publishers / August 2006
Motherhood Interrupted
by Jane Brennan
Hardcover / Xlibris Corporation / January 2008
Our Choices: Women's Personal Decisions About Abortion (Haworth Innovations in Feminist Studies)
by Sumi Hoshiko
Hardcover or Paperback / Harrington Park Press / 1993
Real Abortion Stories: The Hurting and The Healing
by Barbara Horak
Paperback / Strive For the Best Publishing / December 2006
You Aren't Alone: The Voices of Abortion
by Peggy Kirk, PThD
Paperback / Blue Dolphin Publishing, Inc / January 2006
Books - Recovery & Healing from Pregnancy Loss:
A Cry from the Womb: Healing the Heart of the World: A Guide to Healing and Helping Souls Return to the Light After Sudden Death, Miscarriage, Stillbirth or Abortion
by Gwendolyn Awen Jones
Paperback / Angels of Light and Healing / December 2004
Grieving Reproductive Loss: The Healing Process (Death, Value, and Meaning)
by Anne Lassance
Hardcover / Baywood Publishing Company / October 2002
I'll Hold You in Heaven: Healings and Hope for the Parent of a Miscarried, Aborted, or Stillborn Child
by Jack Hayford
Paperback / Regal Books / November 1990
Spirit Babies: How to Communicate with the Child You're Meant to Have
by Walter Makichen
Paperback / Delta / June 2005
Unspeakable Losses: Healing From Miscarriage, Abortion, And Other Pregnancy Loss
by Kim Kluger-Bell
Paperback / Perennial Currents / May 2000
Books - Healing through Grief:
The Grief Recovery Handbook: The Action Program for Moving Beyond Death, Divorce, and Other Losses
by John W. James & Russell Friedman
Letters from Motherless Daughters: Words of Courage, Grief, and Healing
by Hope Edelman
Paperback or Hardcover / Delta / April 1996
Motherless Daughters: The Legacy of Loss, Second Edition (Paperback)
by Hope Edelman
Paperback / Da Capo Press / March 2006
On Grief and Grieving: Finding the Meaning of Grief Through the Five Stages of Loss
by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross and David Kessler
Paperback / Scribner; Reprint edition / June 2007
Emergencies:
If you have recently had an abortion and are having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, please call a suicide hotline at 1 800 784 2433 (1-800-SUICIDE) 1-800-SUICIDE, or contact Befrienders International or The Samaritans right now, or call a friend who can stay with you until you can get help!
Some women are overwhelmed with the feelings that come after abortion, if you are in that place be gentle with yourself.
Disclaimer: This directory is for informational purposes only. Not all organizations and individuals listed will be/are professional counselors. No representation is made or warranty given to each organization or individual listed herein regarding content, conditions, type of healing program or services. Use at your own discretion.
Faith-Based Counseling/Support Groups:
United States:
National Office of Post-Abortion Reconciliation and Healing
National office of Project Rachel, a ministry of the Catholic Church composed of a network of specially trained clergy, spiritual directors and therapists who provide compassionate care to those who are struggling with the aftermath of abortion. Provides confidential help to women and men of all faiths. For referrals to support groups and out reaches of various denominations, contact the national referral number.
Toll-free number: 1-800-5WE-CARE (national referrals number)
PO Box 070477
Milwaukee, WI 53207-0477
Telephone Number: (414) 483-4141
National Post-Abortion Hotline
The hotline is exclusively staffed by women who have themselves had an abortion. You can talk to a trained consultant who has also experienced the pain of abortion, but has found hope and healing. All calls are free and confidential.
Toll-free number: 1-866-482-LIFE (1-866-482-5433)
Rachel's Vineyard Ministries
Offers post-abortion healing and support through weekend retreats and support groups at many sites across the U.S. and abroad. Provides leadership and clinical training seminars, conferences, publications and resources for other healing ministries that wish to offer the retreats. Current retreat dates and locations are listed on the web site.
Toll-free number: 1-877-HOPE-4-ME (1-877-467-3463)
PO Box 195
Bridgeport, PA 19405
Hope Alive, USA
Hope Alive group treatment programs for those deeply hurt by childhood traumas and pregnancy losses. Provides referrals to trained counselors for those desiring the 30 week treatment program.
52 Walney Drive
Bella Vista, AR 72715-2380
Phone Number: 1-479-855-0072
Luminara
Luminara is a post abortion referral network. We know that no matter what your beliefs you can experience many conflicting emotions, if you, or someone close to you has had an abortion. We are committed to getting you the help you need to work through these feelings.
PO Box 242
Harrison, NY 10528
Tel: 1-877-586-4621
Email: lumina@postabortionhelp.org
Save One
Our mission is to reach men and women who are suffering in silence after an abortion. Our passion is to help men and women reclaim and restore their peace of mind and self-worth. SaveOne will give you the necessary tools to assist in rebuilding your life. We offer help through group study, one-on-one help, or answering questions and giving encouragement through self-study.
Call 501-681-8979
E-mail: info@saveone.org
Fathers and Brothers Ministries
Provides Support, counseling, and information for men who experienced abortion-related pregnancy loss.
350 Broadway, Suite 40
Boulder, CO 80303
Phone Number: (303) 494-3282
International:
Abortion Recovery Directory International
A wealth of information from feelings you may be experiencing after abortion, stories from those affected by their own or a loved one's abortion and a site locator to find abortion recovery resources near you.
Toll-free number: 1-866-4-MY-RECOVERY
Ramah International
Seeks to bring post-abortive individuals to Christ's Healing, and supports post-abortion ministry through training programs, resources, research, and promoting awareness of post-abortion issues around the world.
1776 Hudson St.
Englewood, FL 34223
Phone Number: 1-941-473-2188
CareNet International
Provides referrals for individual or group Christian post abortion peer counseling services throughout the United States and abroad.
Toll-free Number: 1-800-395-HELP
Care Confidential (United Kingdom)
Offers The Journey, a sensitive one-to-one or group programme that supports you and equips you to deal with the emotions involved, helping you to find the resources you need to relate to your experience more healthily.
Tel freephone 0800 028 2228
Options Chester (United Kingdom - Chester)
For post abortion support, this service is free, confidential and provided by trained advisors
Tel: 01244 390 193
Abortion Changes You
A confidential space of sharing and finding healing and closure for those who are touched by abortion, whether the experience happened recently or years ago.
The Stacy Zallie Post-Abortion Comfort Portal
The Stacy Zallie Foundation’s mission is to assist women who have made the difficult choice of ending their pregnancy in finding a caring, non-judgemental resourse to help restore their happiness and reconnect with their loved ones and their future.
Healing After Abortion
A Christian-based website dedicated to help women on their journey of healing after abortion. Discusses topics such as grief, loss, healing, medical issues, and stigma.
SafeHaven Ministries
Provides online recovery support and hope and healing for post-abortive men and women. SafeHaven is a Christian-based, privately run site. The site is for anyone who has chosen abortion(s) and is struggling with the aftermath, even if they believe it was still the right choice for them. Because SafeHaven Ministries is a support site and members are of diverse beliefs, debating the moral or political issues associated with abortion is not permitted. The message board and chat room are moderated.
Healing Hearts Ministries
Offers e-mail and support group counseling to those suffering the effects of abortion.
Last Harvest Ministries Inc.
Provides Christian-based online recovery support to men and women suffering from the aftermath of abortion and related life-dominating issues.
Life After Abortion
This website was created in February 2003 and is a place where post-abortion men and women can get useful information--resources, be able to talk to others who have gone through the same difficulties, and find hope for the future. Also this is an almost daily news column about what could loosely be called "the post-abortion movement." This includes the ministries and events that focus on the negative emotional and spiritual aftermath of abortion.
Secular Counseling/Support Groups:
Exhale (A pro-choice post-abortion recovery resource)
"At Exhale, we believe abortion is a normal experience in the reproductive lives of women and girls. We also believe that feelings of relief, sadness, happiness, grief, empowerment, shame, confusion and guilt are normal too. If you had an abortion, we know it can be hard to talk about and that finding the right person to talk with can be even harder. Exhale is here to listen - without judgment, without bias, and without a political or moral agenda. All calls are free and confidential. Exhale is designed to support you and your experience." The talkline operates in the San Francisco Bay Area, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. through a toll-free number
Phone number: 1-866-4-EXHALE.
A couple of women's experience with Exhale
Feedback from callers at the Exhale site
PASS Awareness Site (A pro-choice post-abortion recovery resource)
Provides neutral, non-judgmental, non-religious, non- political on-line support, information, help and healing for women who have had an abortion. The site provides "peer support" from other women who've had an abortion, volunteer helpers, and online information about physical and emotional post-abortion recovery. Also offers support for partners and family members of women. Seeks to have post-abortion syndrome recognized as a medical issue for women, not a political or religious one. Because this is a support site and members are of diverse beliefs, debating the moral or political issues associated with abortion is not permitted.
IMAGINE Counseling
It is our philosophy that all therapy is a process of learning to do self healing. We serve as guide, support, and witness for whatever process you may need. Some work may be short term--one or several sessions pertaining to a specific issue. “We can help you uncover your own internal wisdom and power to create the peace and passion that is eluding you. You can learn skills and tools that will assist you in any of life's stresses. Our practice is primarily conducted over the phone, which allows flexibility in scheduling rarely available with an office practice. This also allows us to bring our special experience to people regardless of their geographical location. Call (505) 757-2991 to schedule a free half hour consultation to see if we can help you find healing .
Abortion Conversation Project, Inc.
ACP's website encourages conversations about abortion with FAQ, articles of interests and conversation guides.
Abortion Chronicles
Women share their abortion stories
Project Voice
Write anonymously about your abortion experience and read a range of other women's stories.
Pregnancy Loss Memorials:
Suggestions for Recognizing the Loss and Memorializing the Potential Child
Honored Babies Online Memorial and Pregnancy Loss Site
Online Pamphlets on Abortion Loss and Healing:
A Guide to Emotional and Spiritual Resolution
After an Abortion
Inner Healing After Abortion
When the Pain Won't Go Away: Dealing with the Aftereffects of Abortion
After Your Abortion: a natural response
Grief - Grieving Your Losses
Books - Self-Help Recovery & Healing from Abortion Loss for Women:
Being at Peace with Choices (Audio CD)
with Dr. Carol Robin
Guided CDs Inc. / 2006
C.P.R.: Choice Processing and Resolution
by Trudy Johnson
Paperback / Outskirts Press / August 2009
A Difficult Decision: A Compassionate Book About Abortion
by Joy Gardner
Paperback / Crossing Press / September 1986
The Healing Choice: Your Guide to Emotional Recovery After an Abortion
by Candace De Puy, Dana Dovitch
Paperback / Fireside / March 1997
Living with Your Choice: An Inner Healing for Abortion (Audio Cassette)
by Eric Alan Braun
Cas & Bklt edition / Applied Wisdom Corp / January 1990
No One Told Me I Could Cry: A Teens Guide to Hope and Healing After Abortion
by Connie Nykiel
Paperback / For Teen Moms Only / December 1997
PASS Recovery Steps Workbook
by Jill Savin
Paperback / Jill Savin / July 2004
Peace after Abortion
by Ava Torre-Bueno
Paperback / Pimpernel Press / 1997
The Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Sourcebook: A Guide to Healing, Recovery, and Growth by Glenn R. Schiraldi
Paperback /McGraw-Hill /March 2009
Books - Self-Help Recovery & Healing from Abortion Loss for Men:
Changed: Making Sense of Your Own or a Loved One's Abortion Experience
by Michaelene Fredenburg
Hardcover / Perspectives / 2008
Fatherhood Aborted
by Guy Condon, David Hazard
Paperback / Tyndale House Publishers / July 2001
Men and Abortion: A Path to Healing
by C.T. Coyle
Paperback / Life Cycle Books / April 30, 1999
Redeeming A Father's Heart: Men Share Powerful Stories of Abortion Loss and Recovery
by Kevin Burke LSW, David Wemhoff, Marvin Stockwell
Paperback / AuthorHouse / May 2007
Books - Spirituality-Based Recovery & Healing from Abortion Loss for Women and Men:
Aborted Women: Silent No More
by David C. Reardon, Nancyjo Mann
Paperback or Hardback / Acorn Publishing / January 2002
Abortion & Healing: A Cry to Be Whole
by Michael T. Mannion
Paperback / Sheed & Ward; 2nd edition / April 1986
Changed: Making Sense of Your Own or a Loved One's Abortion Experience
by Michaelene Fredenburg
Hardcover / Perspectives / 2008
Do Not Lose Hope: Healing the Wounded Heart of Women Who Have Had Abortions
by William F., Reverend Maestri
Paperback / Alba House / January 2000
Forbidden Grief: The Unspoken Pain of Abortion
by Theresa Burke, David C. Reardon
Hardcover / Acorn Books / June 2002
Forgiven and Set Free: A Post-Abortion Bible Study for Women
by Linda Cochrane
Paperback / Baker Book House / 1999
Healing a Fathers Heart: A Post-Abortion Bible Study for Men
by Linda Cochrane, Kathy Jones
Paperback / Baker Book House / November 1996
Healing after Abortion
by David Powlison
Paperback / New Growth Press / July 2008
Her Choice to Heal: Finding Spiritual and Emotional Peace After Abortion
by Sydna Masse, Joan Phillips
Paperback / Chariot Victor Publishing / November 1998
The Inner Dance: A Guide to Spiritual and Psychological Unfolding
by Diana Mariechild
Paperback / Crossing Press / September 1987
The Jericho Plan: Breaking Down the Walls Which Prevent Post-Abortion Healing
by David C. Reardon, Theresa Burke, Laura C. Schlessinger
Paperback / Acorn Books / November 1996
Rachel's Vineyard: A Psychological and Spiritual Journey of Post-Abortion Healing : A Model for Groups
by Theresa Karminski Burke, Barbara Cullen
Paperback / Alba House / July 1995
Saveone: A Guide to Emotional Healing After Abortion
by Sheila Harper
Hardcover / 2003
A Season to Heal
by Luci Freed Penny, Yvonne Salazar
Paperback / Cumberland House / June 1996
A Solitary Sorrow
by Teri Reisser, Dr. Paul Reisser
Paperback / Shaw / March 2000
Soul Crisis
by Sue Nathanson
Hardcover or Paperback / Signet / August 1990
You're Not Alone : Healing Through God's Grace After Abortion
by Jennifer O'Neill
Paperback / Faith Communications / January 1, 2005
Books - Shared Stories of Healing:
Abortion: My Choice, God's Grace: Christian Women Tell Their Stories
by Anne Eggebroten
Paperbaxck / Hope Publishing House / April 1994
Broken into Beautiful: How God Restores the Wounded Heart
by Gwen Smith
Paperback / Harvest House Publishers / July 2008
Can't Keep Silent: A Woman's 22-Year Journey of Post-Abortion Healing
by Lydia A. Clarke
Paperback / Tate Publishing & Enterprises / January 2006
Catholic Women & Abortion: Stories of Healing
by Pat King
Paperback / Sheed and Ward / July 1994
Experiencing Abortion: A Weaving of Women's Words
by Eve Kushner
Paperback or Hardback / Haworth Press / June 1997
Giving Sorrow Words: Women's Stories of Grief After Abortion
by Melinda Tankard Reist
Paperback / Duffy & Snellgrove / July 2000
Lady Liberty A Post-Abortive Story Of Healing
by Julie Weber
Paperback / Weber Publishing / 2004
Make Me Your Choice: Compelling Personal Stories of Struggle and Healing from Those Who Have Had or Dealt with Abortion
by Cheryl Chew
Paperback / Destiny Image Publishers / August 2006
Motherhood Interrupted
by Jane Brennan
Hardcover / Xlibris Corporation / January 2008
Our Choices: Women's Personal Decisions About Abortion (Haworth Innovations in Feminist Studies)
by Sumi Hoshiko
Hardcover or Paperback / Harrington Park Press / 1993
Real Abortion Stories: The Hurting and The Healing
by Barbara Horak
Paperback / Strive For the Best Publishing / December 2006
You Aren't Alone: The Voices of Abortion
by Peggy Kirk, PThD
Paperback / Blue Dolphin Publishing, Inc / January 2006
Books - Recovery & Healing from Pregnancy Loss:
A Cry from the Womb: Healing the Heart of the World: A Guide to Healing and Helping Souls Return to the Light After Sudden Death, Miscarriage, Stillbirth or Abortion
by Gwendolyn Awen Jones
Paperback / Angels of Light and Healing / December 2004
Grieving Reproductive Loss: The Healing Process (Death, Value, and Meaning)
by Anne Lassance
Hardcover / Baywood Publishing Company / October 2002
I'll Hold You in Heaven: Healings and Hope for the Parent of a Miscarried, Aborted, or Stillborn Child
by Jack Hayford
Paperback / Regal Books / November 1990
Spirit Babies: How to Communicate with the Child You're Meant to Have
by Walter Makichen
Paperback / Delta / June 2005
Unspeakable Losses: Healing From Miscarriage, Abortion, And Other Pregnancy Loss
by Kim Kluger-Bell
Paperback / Perennial Currents / May 2000
Books - Healing through Grief:
The Grief Recovery Handbook: The Action Program for Moving Beyond Death, Divorce, and Other Losses
by John W. James & Russell Friedman
Letters from Motherless Daughters: Words of Courage, Grief, and Healing
by Hope Edelman
Paperback or Hardcover / Delta / April 1996
Motherless Daughters: The Legacy of Loss, Second Edition (Paperback)
by Hope Edelman
Paperback / Da Capo Press / March 2006
On Grief and Grieving: Finding the Meaning of Grief Through the Five Stages of Loss
by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross and David Kessler
Paperback / Scribner; Reprint edition / June 2007
Sunday, May 8, 2005
Thursday, April 28, 2005
Just for Fun: More Quizes
More fun quizes to give us a break from the daily grind.
"What Condom Flavor are You? "
Strawberry
You are very unique, and like to try different things, you have an alright attitude, and are often hyper!
Take This Quiz
Right on!
"What Religion Bests Suits You?"
Average Christian
You're not going to become a minister anytime soon, but you do your best to live your life in a Christian way. This means that although you probably don't attend church every Sunday, you do your best to follow the Ten Commandments, help the needy and generally be an all around good person. Who needs to follow the entire bible anyways? It was written ages ago, and Christ transmuted it by giving his life.
Take This Quiz
Yeah, that sounds about right about me nowadays.
"Which Care Bear Are You?"
You Are Friend Bear!
Need a good friend? Friend Bear would love to be your best buddy bear. She's the perfect example of a friend, too. She's caring, likes to play with you and she's fun to be with. She has a friendly symbol on her tummy. Two smiling flowers!
Take This Quiz
I'm loyal and honest. And I'm always there if a friend needs to talk or a shoulder to cry on.
"What Condom Flavor are You? "
Strawberry
You are very unique, and like to try different things, you have an alright attitude, and are often hyper!
Take This Quiz
Right on!
"What Religion Bests Suits You?"
Average Christian
You're not going to become a minister anytime soon, but you do your best to live your life in a Christian way. This means that although you probably don't attend church every Sunday, you do your best to follow the Ten Commandments, help the needy and generally be an all around good person. Who needs to follow the entire bible anyways? It was written ages ago, and Christ transmuted it by giving his life.
Take This Quiz
Yeah, that sounds about right about me nowadays.
"Which Care Bear Are You?"
You Are Friend Bear!
Need a good friend? Friend Bear would love to be your best buddy bear. She's the perfect example of a friend, too. She's caring, likes to play with you and she's fun to be with. She has a friendly symbol on her tummy. Two smiling flowers!
Take This Quiz
I'm loyal and honest. And I'm always there if a friend needs to talk or a shoulder to cry on.
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