with liberty &
reproductive justice for all
Reproductive justice is an inclusive, social justice framework that goes beyond traditional reproductive rights to address reproductive oppression. Developed in 1994 by a group of black women activists in the U.S. who recognized the Women’s Rights Movement, primarily led by and representing white women, lacked an inclusive, equitable lens to fight for the needs of Black, Indigenous, women of color, and other marginalized communities. Unfortunately, the term 'reproductive justice' is often co-opted, making it more important than ever to understand, honor, and acknowledge the trailblazers who initiated and sustain the movement. Learn all about the history and current movement here: Sister Song. Reproductive justice highlights the intersectionality of systemic factors impacting individuals' reproductive choices and well-being. The three core values include:
1. THE RIGHT TO
HAVE A CHILD
.
2. THE RIGHT TO
NOT HAVE A CHILD
3. THE RIGHT TO PARENT CHILDREN IN SAFE AND HEALTHY ENVIRONMENTS
pro choice | pro you
Pregnancy, whether planned or unplanned, is often accompanied by a rollercoaster of emotions. In the midst of this emotional experience, comes a choice (i.e., parenting, adoption, or abortion). Here at Aligyned, I believe that the choice is yours, and I am with you. Having experienced abortion myself, equipped with a steadfast support system, I found that my most valuable interactions occurred in solidarity with others who had their own abortion experience(s).The decision to release a pregnancy (i.e., abortion) is not always an easy one—nor is it always your preferred choice. Even if you are certain abortion is the best option for you, as with any significant life event, the thoughts and emotions that arise can be complex and contradictory. No matter what comes up for you, all of it is valid. Experiences, especially pivotal ones, are always unique, rarely linear, and eternally evolving. Because of this, seeking support to navigate what emerges with releasing pregnancy can be essential. Aligyned is grounded in healing, and utilizes both conventional and alternative therapeutic modalities to support you before, during, and/or after this journey. I am so honored to provide a safe space to support you in releasing pregnancy with dignity.
REALITY:
Having an abortion does not cause mental health challenges. "In fact, the best predictor of a [person's] mental health after an abortion is [their] mental health before the abortion." -Nancy Felipe Russo
​
REALITY:
The absence of positive social support (e.g., understanding, appreciation, dialogue, empowerment) and the presence of negative social support (e.g., criticism, silence, misunderstanding, stigma, lack of access to quality reproductive healthcare) are significant risk factors to overall well-being.
REALITY:
Common feelings following an abortion include a wide range of emotions like relief, happiness, sadness, empowerment, anger, guilt, and/or anxiety. Everyone's experience with abortion is valid and there are resources available to support you in navigating your experience.
you're so hormonal
Take a moment and think back to the time you were introduced to your period. Was the experience positive or negative? I would imagine, most of us would say negative and with limited education/resources. How can we adequately care and advocate for oursleves when this important biological rhythm that impacts our physical and emotional well-being is presented in such a way? Despite popular opinion, there is much more to our monthly cycle than bleeding (or not) 1x/month with the hopes of getting or not getting pregnant. Becoming aware and informed of our biological processes will foster an alliance between internal and external routines/regimens for the sake of our well-being.
Hormones are the body's chemical messengers, carrying information and instructions by way of the endocrine system that plays a vital role in regulating our body’s functions/processes including emotions, mood, sleep, sexual function, and more. Many variables impact our hormones, with stress being a primary culprit. Stress can stem from past traumas held in our nervous systems or current stressors in various domains of life. Let's not forget the impact of society and healthcare professionals often minimizing our symptoms or, worse, gaslighting our experiences.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) are cyclical disruptions in quality of life caused by an abnormal nervous system response to normal hormonal changes experienced within our cycle. Approximately every week, we enter a different phase, meaning our needs change just as often. Traditional methods of navigating these challenges are often static, with a lot left to be desired. You deserve to find relief instead of struggling 25% (or more) of the time. Our monthly cycle is complex, so treatment can't be simplified. I engage a holistic approach by offering personalized support in alleviating your symptoms. Let's work together to explore your unique challenges through a compassionate lens, empowering you to navigate these challenges proactively and adaptively.
damned if you do
damned if you don't
Your relationship with parenthood is deeply personal, and navigating the societal stigma surrounding this decision, especially for women of reproductive age, can be incredibly challenging. Whether you're considering parenthood in the future, not at this moment, or not at all, the pressure to conform to societal expectations can be overwhelming. Unfortunately, those who choose to opt out of parenthood, whether before or after pregnancy, often face judgment and criticism. It's important to remember that you are not alone in this decision— in fact, in 2021, approximately 44% of women reported a desire to be "childless by choice." (source)
The challenges extend beyond societal judgment. From pressure from family, friends, and society at large to challenges in romantic relationships where expectations may differ, navigating this path can be complex. Additionally, there may be a lack of support and understanding from healthcare professionals, leading to difficulties in accessing quality healthcare for conditions such as PCOS or endometriosis. It's crucial to acknowledge the limitations in having control over reproductive health as the only guaranteed method of ensuring a child-free life is abstinence, which is not a realistic option for many. Living in a post-Roe World, where many states continue to enforce barriers that limit self-determination, it's more important than ever to advocate for our reproductive health and desires.
It's important to recognize that choosing childlessness is a valid option and not a failure. Whether you decide to have children or not, you have the ability to lead a fulfilling and enriching life. Your worth extends far beyond motherhood/parenthood, and your body is a source of creativity, fertility, and pleasure, regardless of your parental status. I celebrate choice and empower you to embrace your own path with confidence and pride.