Breaking the Chains of Coercion: Support and Resources for Those Facing Undue Pressure to Abort

 

 This guest post is from Regent Law student Lorraine Harmer:

Pregnancy can be a challenging and life-altering experience, and some believe deciding whether to have an abortion should ultimately be a personal and informed decision.  However, nearly 70% of abortions are coerced, unwanted, or inconsistent with the woman’s preferences.  Individuals may face undue pressure from various sources, such as parents, partners, employers, or counselors, to terminate their pregnancies against their will.  In such cases, it is essential to know that support systems are in place to help those in need.  This blog post explores the issue of coerced abortions, the legal protections in place, and the vital role played by agencies and pregnancy centers in providing assistance and recovery services.

 Legal Protections Against Coercion

It's crucial to understand that “[f]orcing a woman to have an abortion, including a minor, is illegal in all 50 states of the United States of America.” The law recognizes that a person's decision regarding their pregnancy should be free from external pressures or manipulation.  Coercion can take various forms, including threats, emotional manipulation, or even withholding financial support.  Those who use coercion to force someone into having an abortion can face legal consequences.  It's essential to note that parents cannot “disown” or “kick out” their minor child who becomes pregnant.  Typically, parents are legally obligated to support their minor child, regardless of their pregnancy status.  This helps ensure that young expectant mothers have a safety net in place. 

Supportive Agencies 

For those facing coercion to have an abortion, there are agencies and organizations dedicated to providing assistance and support.  One such agency is The Justice Foundation, which specializes in helping individuals facing coercion make decisions about their pregnancy-related rights.  It has created many educational resources to combat forced abortions, including

form letters that can be used to communicate with the individuals pressuring someone into having an abortion.  There are pointed form letters addressed Dear: Student, Parent, Father, Police, School Guidance Counselors, or Abortionists.  These letters assert the person's rights and make it clear that coercion is illegal.  They can be a powerful tool in regaining control over one's reproductive choices. 

Pregnancy Centers: A Beacon of Support

Sixty percent of women who aborted report they would have preferred to give birth if they had received either more emotional support or had more financial security.  Pregnancy centers often play a crucial role in supporting expectant mothers, partners, and families facing difficult decisions.  These centers are often staffed by compassionate and skilled professionals who provide a wide range of services, including:

1.      Counseling: Pregnancy centers may offer confidential counseling to help individuals navigate their options and make informed decisions.

2.     Education: Centers may provide information about pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting, empowering individuals with the knowledge to make choices that align with their values and goals.

3.     Material Support: Many pregnancy centers offer essential items like diapers, baby clothes, and formula to alleviate financial pressures.

4.    Medical Referrals: These centers may connect individuals with healthcare providers for prenatal care and other medical needs.

5.     Emotional Support: Pregnancy can be emotionally challenging, and pregnancy centers offer a safe space to discuss fears and concerns.

Locally in Virginia, The Keim Centers offer services in Chesapeake, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Portsmouth, and Suffolk.  Visit https://keimcenters.com/ or call (757) 709-6099 to make an appointment.  All services provided by The Keim Centers are free, with costs covered wholly by local individuals, foundations, and organizations that believe in helping women.

Recovery Services for Those Who Choose Abortion

For individuals who decide to have an abortion, recovery services are also available.  Many pregnancy centers provide post-abortion counseling and support to help individuals process their emotions and experiences.  These services are offered in a non-judgmental and compassionate environment, ensuring that individuals receive the care they need to heal emotionally and physically.

Conclusion

Facing coercion to have an abortion is a distressing situation, but it's important to know that help is available.  Legal protections exist to safeguard an individual's right to make their own decisions about their pregnancy, free from coercion.  Pregnancy centers offer valuable resources and assistance to those facing unexpected pregnancies, ensuring that individuals have access to the information and support they need to make the best choices for themselves and their futures.  Regardless of whether someone decides to continue their pregnancy or abort, the journey should be one of autonomy, support, and healing.  Agencies like The Justice Foundation and The Keims Centers are available and ready to provide support and guidance.