“It’s me, Jane. I need help. I think I’m pregnant again.”

Jane had given birth just a few months earlier, and she and the baby’s father, Ed, were participating in the clinic’s Empowered Parenting classes. Over time, the clinic had been building a meaningful relationship with them. Hearing the uncertainty in her voice, they silently prayed and gently asked how she was feeling about the possibility of another pregnancy.

There was a long pause. Then she whispered, “I don’t think I can do it.”

The words came pouring out. Jane felt overwhelmed. They asked if she could come into the clinic, and without hesitation, she agreed.

The Weight of Motherhood

When Jane arrived, she quietly broke down. Being a first-time mother was already hard, but compounded with her newborn’s health challenges, financial struggles, and the added pressure of her boyfriend’s existing responsibilities, it all felt like too much.

“It’s just not going to be okay,” she said through tears.

The staff members sat with her, listened, and gently helped her begin to untangle her emotions. “Jane, it won’t always be this hard,” they told her. “You’re tired, overwhelmed, and scared. But you are doing an amazing job. You are a strong woman, and you are not alone.”

She had convinced herself that the pregnancy was her fault—and that abortion was the only way to “fix the mess.”

Meanwhile, a Father’s Heart Was Stirring

What Jane didn’t know at the time was that the fatherhood coach had also connected with Ed. He was in shock, too. He wasn’t sure how they would manage, but he was sure about one thing: He wanted the baby.

Ed admitted his fears, but he also expressed hope. The coach encouraged him to be honest with Jane, to share his heart, and to support her not just as a partner—but as a father.

Also read: How You Can Help Men Choose Fatherhood

A Moment of Silence at the Ultrasound

The day of the ultrasound came. Ed had to step out to take a phone call and never returned to the room. Jane sat silently during the scan, offering no questions. Afterward, the nurse gently asked what her next steps would be.

Jane looked down and said, “I’m going to find the abortion pill.”

She urged her to slow down. “You don’t have to decide today. You have time. You don’t have to make this decision from a place of fear.”

Jane and Ed left the clinic that day. The staff and volunteers gathered to pray for clarity, for peace, for strength, and for the life of this unborn child.

Silence… Then a Spark of Hope

For days, the clinic’s calls to Jane went unanswered. Still, they prayed—believing that something was stirring behind the silence. Almost a week later, the fatherhood coach called Ed again. This time, he answered.

“She’s still pregnant,” he said. It was Ed’s birthday, and he confessed it had been one of the hardest weeks of his life. Without skipping a beat, the coaches picked up a birthday cake and a card. They wanted Ed to know: You matter. You’re worth celebrating.

It’s important to give a father the recognition and support he needs when facing a difficult situation. Men are just as impacted by unplanned pregnancies.

Also read: Jimmy Bloss: A Father’s Abortion Story

A Second Chance

The very next day, Jane called: “Can I come in for another ultrasound?”

The clinic welcomed her and Ed back that same day. And that’s when they shared the news: They had changed their minds. They were keeping the baby.

The entire clinic rejoiced. One life saved—and a family choosing hope. They can’t wait to continue walking with Jane and Ed through the clinic’s Empowered Parenting program, supporting them every step of the way on their parenting journey.

Their story is not just one of hardship, but of resilience, love, and the quiet courage of a father who showed up when it mattered most.

Every life matters. Every parent matters. And sometimes, it’s the quietest voices—like Ed’s—that speak the loudest.

Want to help more young parents like Ed and Jane choose parenthood even in the face of challenges?

Read next: Patti Didn’t “Feel Pregnant” At First… But the Test Was Positive

The post Ed’s Choice: The Power of a Father and His Voice appeared first on Save the Storks.

Patti opened up about her personal circumstances, sharing that her relationship with the baby’s father was unstable. She wasn’t sure she saw a future with him. She didn’t think he would be supportive during her pregnancy or in raising a child.

Patti Faced Several Fears and Uncertainties

In addition to her uncertainty about the relationship, Patti shared her concerns about finances; there was no way she could afford to care for a baby at this time. The thought of raising a child alone left her feeling overwhelmed and scared. These fears, combined with her uncertainty about her circumstances, contributed to her deep sense of fear over her pregnancy.

Throughout the consultation, Patti felt very emotional and anxious. The clinic tried to provide a calm and supportive environment, giving her space to express her feelings, and reassuring her she wasn’t alone. They offered detailed information about the next steps, including available resources and support options. They told her to take the time she needed to process her emotions and make an informed decision.

When Patti was shown the fetal models, she started to cry. She was amazed by how quickly development happens. Despite her emotional state, Patti expressed appreciation for the guidance and compassion she received during the consultation. Options assured her they would be there to support her every step of the way. Despite her fears and feeling unprepared, she shared that her family would support her if she chose to continue the pregnancy. This provided her with a small sense of hope.

Also read: Women’s Health Should Be an Educational Priority

Patti Began to See the Possibility of Parenthood

At this point, the clinic noticed a shift in how she was feeling. Patti began to see the possibility of being a mother. However, she remained undecided about her next steps, voicing her fears of miscarriage, complications, or the challenges of raising a baby alone. Options reassured Patti that they would remain a consistent source of care and encouragement. They offered follow-up support and resources to help her navigate this difficult journey.

It wasn’t until the follow-up call that Patti said she decided to keep her baby. She explained that the baby’s father had surprised her with his reaction to the news. Instead of the response she had feared, he was excited about the possibility of becoming a father and expressed a strong desire to raise the baby together with her. While they hadn’t shared the news of her pregnancy with her family yet, they planned to wait until the end of her first trimester.

Want to help more young women like Patti choose motherhood amidst the fears and uncertainties?

Read another powerful story about a mother whose heart condition put her pregnancy at risk: Emily’s Story

The post Patti “Didn’t Feel Pregnant” At First…But the Test Was Positive appeared first on Save the Storks.

Embryo adoption not only grants embryos the opportunity to develop and thrive, but also gives adoptive parents to experience the profound journey of pregnancy and childbirth. In a world that often disregards the value of life at its earliest stages, embryo adoption stands as a powerful testament to the inherent worth of every human being.

What is Embryo Adoption?

Embryo adoption offers frozen embryos — tiny lives created through in vitro fertilization (IVF),  typically remaining from another couple’s IVF treatments — the chance to grow, thrive, and fulfill their God-given potential. Instead of being discarded or indefinitely frozen, these embryos are placed into the loving womb of an adoptive mother who longs to give them the precious gift of life.

Unlike traditional adoption, embryo adoption allows a mother to experience the joys and challenges of pregnancy, forming a deep bond with her child from the very beginning. It’s a life-affirming choice that reflects the belief that every life, no matter how small, is sacred.

What are the concerns around IVF?

There are several groups within the pro-life community that view IVF as an unnatural way of conceiving children. They argue that while the creation of life is something to be celebrated, many embryos are left frozen or are discarded. Since 1991, out of 3.5 million embryos that were created, less than 300,000 were successfully implanted. More than 1.4 million embryos were discarded. These groups see IVF as a commodification of children, and would prefer that women and families try to conceive naturally. This would eliminate the overproduction of embryos, or to adopt children who have already been born. 

In contrast, there is also research that details how embryos, even when created naturally, do not survive until the implantation stage; around 40-60% are lost from fertilization to birth. Meaning, regardless of if the embryo was created through IVF or through sexual intercourse, the chance of survival of several embryos is low. It comes down to viability, which cannot be determined even when IVF specialists deem certain embryos “stronger” than others. The process of life is miraculous in and of itself. These scientific advancements still cannot guarantee a successful pregnancy. 

While Save the Storks does not take a stance on IVF, we believe that embryo adoption is a beautiful choice. It gives unborn lives––viable embryos that may be at risk of being discarded–– a chance to grow into their full potential.

Is Embryo Adoption the Right Choice?

Choosing embryo adoption is a redemptive act. It’s a way to rescue these precious lives and give them a future.While some may view these embryos as mere cells, pro-life advocates recognize them as unique individuals with purpose and dignity. Every heartbeat, every kick, every moment of development inside the womb testifies to the miracle of life. Embryo adoption ensures that no life is wasted, affirming the belief that all children are created in the image of God.

The Heart of Embryo Adoption: Love and Sacrifice

Embryo adoption is not without its challenges. The legal and medical processes can be complex, and the emotional investment is significant. There are costs to consider, screenings and assessments, legal contracts, etc. But for families who choose this path, the joy of welcoming a child into their arms far outweighs any difficulty.

It’s a journey that demands selflessness and courage — values deeply ingrained in the pro-life movement. And for the mothers who carry these precious children, it’s a tangible expression of what it means to choose life. 

We also acknowledge the donors of these embryos and the emotional impact it may have on them. Their willingness to offer, essentially, parts of themselves is truly admirable. We recognize the value of this journey on both ends.

Embryo Adoption: A Beautiful Choice

Embryo adoption is a beautiful example of what it means to stand for life. It’s a call to embrace the vulnerable, to celebrate the miracle of existence. A call to offer hope where it’s needed most.

At Save the Storks, we believe that every life has value. Supporting and promoting embryo adoption is one more way we can live out our commitment to protect the unborn. Whether you’re a couple longing to grow your family, a donor considering the future of your embryos, or an advocate for life, your role in this story matters.

Also read: Our Favorite Movies Featuring the Beauty of Adoption

The post Embracing Life Through Embryo Adoption appeared first on Save the Storks.

Here are a few meaningful ways you can support single moms this Valentine’s Day and remind them that they are not alone:

1. Offer a Helping Hand

One of the most thoughtful things you can do is simply offer your support in practical ways. Single moms do a lot, from balancing work, home life, and the emotional labor of parenting. Offering a break—even just for a few hours—can be an invaluable gift.

Consider offering to babysit for a few hours so she can take a much-needed break away from the house, or offer to take her kids somewhere so she can relax at home without the constant responsibility of caring for her children. If you can, step in to run errands, help with housework, or cook a meal. These small gestures can make a world of difference in relieving stress and giving her some much-needed time to recharge.

2. Send a Thoughtful, Personalized Gift

While flowers and chocolates are nice, sometimes the best gifts are the ones that show you truly know and appreciate the person. A single mom’s needs often go beyond material things, so consider sending something that reflects her personality or passions. 

Maybe she’s a busy working mom who could use a bit of self-care, such as a spa kit, a scented candle, or a cozy blanket for a quiet evening at home. Maybe she’s a mom who loves reading, so gifting her a book or an audiobook subscription could provide an escape when she needs it most.

If you’re feeling particularly creative, consider a DIY gift—a handmade card, a beaded necklace, or even a heartfelt letter. A sincere note expressing appreciation for her strength, love, and resilience will be more cherished than any store-bought gift.

3. Be A Listening Ear

Single moms face a unique kind of emotional challenge, especially on holidays that emphasize romantic relationships. Taking the time to acknowledge her feelings and provide emotional support is incredibly meaningful.

Check in with her—not just to offer help, but to listen. Ask how she’s feeling and validate her emotions. A quick text, a phone call, or a coffee date to chat can make her feel seen and supported, especially when she might be navigating loneliness or exhaustion.

If you can tell she’s struggling, you can point her to places like Life of A Single Mom, which offers a myriad of resources for parenting, education, and career opportunities, as well as childcare and financial aid.

4. Encourage Her to Celebrate Herself

Valentine’s Day can often feel centered around romantic love, but single moms deserve a chance to celebrate themselves. Empowering her to take time to indulge in self-care is a great way to support her on this day.

Encourage her to do something that brings her joy. Whether it’s enjoying a meal at her favorite restaurant, watching a movie, or a day at the mall, it helps create space for her to celebrate herself. Acknowledge the incredible work she does as a parent and remind her that she is worthy of love and care, not only from others but from herself too.

5. Offer a Community of Support

In the long run, one of the most meaningful gifts you can offer is a sense of community. Many single moms face the challenge of feeling isolated, especially during holidays when family gatherings and couple-centric celebrations are in the spotlight. Consider involving her in activities or events that help her feel connected to others.

Invite her to join in on a group activity, such as a Galentine’s Day, a community or church event, or a casual get-together with other single moms. Feeling part of a caring, supportive community can make her feel that she’s surrounded by people who care. The most life-affirming thing you can do for a mom is to just be there for her.

6. Help Make the Day Special for Her Kids

If she has young children, you can help make Valentine’s Day special for them as well. This can mean offering to pick up some inexpensive treats or small gifts for her kids or helping to organize a simple celebration at home. The love and effort put into creating joy for her children will be appreciated—and will also allow her to feel that the day has a little magic for the whole family, despite the challenges.

You might even organize a virtual “Valentine’s Day party” where her kids can make cards or share their favorite memories. Sometimes, it’s the small, thoughtful moments that mean the most.

7. Make It About More Than Romance

Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to be solely about romantic love. For single moms, it’s an opportunity to celebrate love in all its forms—love for family, for friends, for community, and most importantly, love for themselves. Take this opportunity to express appreciation and remind her that she’s valued, not just for what she does as a mom, but for who she is as a person.

Whether through a small act of kindness, a heartfelt note, or a shared moment of connection, the simple reminder that someone sees and appreciates her will go a long way in making her feel supported, empowered, and loved.

Love Is Bigger Than a Day

While Valentine’s Day is a beautiful reminder to express love, supporting single moms shouldn’t be confined to just one day. It’s the small, everyday gestures of kindness, understanding, and appreciation that will leave a lasting impression. So this Valentine’s Day, let’s extend our love beyond roses and chocolates and take the time to lift up the single moms in our lives—they deserve all the love we can give today and every day.

Also read: Pro-life Groups Who Help Girls Become Ready for Motherhood

The post How to Support Single Moms This Valentine’s Day appeared first on Save the Storks.

The devastation and grief these wildfires have caused communities is profound. Yet, in the face of tragedy and despair, Los Angeles proves that it is a city built on resilience, with its patrons coming together to help one another, either by opening up their homes for evacuees, donating goods, or volunteering at relief centers.

LA Fire Response Efforts

Several response efforts have taken place across the city and state of California: emergency shelters, food and supply drives, even veterinarian aid for pets and animals. Countless organizations and companies have stepped up to provide relief for the people of Los Angeles as they navigate this challenging time. 

Groups and brands like The Altadena Girls and Rhode are addressing the unique needs of young girls, women, mothers, and caregivers by providing self-care products, and donating a percentage of sales to relief funds for childcare and long-term parenting support.

Among these humanitarian efforts exclusively for women, mothers, and children impacted by the LA fires is Save the Storks and For Every Woman.

Save the Storks Partners with For Every Woman, Providing Help and Hope

Save the Storks, in collaboration with For Every Woman, is offering life-changing resources to moms and women who are pregnant. The For Every Woman website is actively meeting mothers through the 27/7 Live Nurse Chat, where women can get answers to health-related questions, referrals to local shelters and temporary housing, food pantries and meal programs, and prescription assistance. Additionally, on ground, the For Every Woman Mobile Medical Clinic served moms and children at the Santa Anita Park (racetrack) this past week providing emergency supplies such as formula, diapers, wipes, and other essentials, as well as access to maternal and child healthcare. 

With the help of our partners: Orange County Rescue Mission, Mariners Church, and Horizon Pregnancy Clinic, Save the Storks and For Every Woman have been able to assist thousands of mothers and children who have been affected by the LA fires or are simply in need of these resources.

Relief Efforts in Florida and North Carolina

This is not the first time that Save the Storks has provided relief efforts for communities impacted by natural disasters. Last year, we came alongside mothers in Florida and North Carolina during Hurricanes Helene and Milton––which caused significant calamity across the states––by providing essentials, healthcare, and emotional support.

Through our partnership with Infinite Worth, we were also able to provide 24/7 support online to women in need who could access our chat at any moment and find resources and locations where they would be given immediate assistance and shelter. 

Los Angeles’ Moms And Children Need You

Save the Storks x For Every Woman has made incredible progress in supporting mothers and children impacted by the LA fires, but the journey is far from over. Imagine the magnitude of losing your home or being mandated to evacuate––leaving everything you own behind––and trying to stay strong for your children who rely on you. The weight of this situation is beyond bearable, and out of all those who have been affected by this ongoing crisis, mothers and children are the most vulnerable. 

In times like this, it really does take a loving community to reach out and hold a mother and her children up. We are so thankful to those who have joined our relief efforts by donating or volunteering. If you know someone in need, please let them know that we are here, and we are not going anywhere. 

If you would like to contribute but are not within the Los Angeles area, you can support our efforts with a financial donation by noting “For Every Woman/Los Angeles” so we can continue to provide essential supplies, healthcare, and support to moms and young children in need.

Click here for more information on the resources we’re providing and how to get involved. Help us spread the word and share this post with others who may need help or want to make a difference. Let’s continue to pray for restoration, recovery, and healing for Los Angeles. 

The post Save the Storks and For Every Woman Meet the Needs of Moms Impacted by LA Fires appeared first on Save the Storks.

She recalls the experience being “beyond hideous and life-altering,” that she “had no anesthetic” during the procedure and “felt everything.” Sally details how the technician was giving her “puffs of ether” which made her arms and legs feel numb. She realized he was molesting her, but she didn’t have the strength to push him away. Right after the procedure, they urged her to leave. 

This story feels very similar to that of our CEO, Diane Ferraro’s mother, who went to Mexico after discovering she was pregnant, but didn’t proceed with the abortion. If she had, Diane would not be here today. 

Young Women Don’t Need Abortion, They Need Proper Healthcare

Sally Field’s abortion story was a blatant effort to encourage a vote for Harris-Walz in the upcoming election. Ultimately urging her audience that “We can’t go back!” But it begs the question: go back to what? Abortions that are illegal and done in heinous manners? Sally Field said it herself, the experience was painful and traumatic. However, many women have come forth even in today’s landscape where abortion is still legal in most states (even up to 40 weeks)¹, claiming that the abortion procedure was no less traumatic. Women may be able get abortions “legally,” but the legality of it doesn’t eliminate its impact, its harm. 

In her video², Sally Field goes on to say this: “And it’s beyond how you can go back to that and do that to our little girls and our young women, and not have respect and regard for their health and their own decisions about whether they feel they’re able to give birth to a child at that time.”

If we’re to truly look at how we can respect a woman’s health and her decisions, then we would help her make an informed decision. We would tell her all her options so that she actually has a choice in the matter. We wouldn’t push her automatically to an abortion, which is what places like Planned Parenthood do. Should a woman or young girl not want an abortion, what “reproductive freedom” is in place for her then? Rarely are you seeing ways in which healthcare systems are empowering young women who choose motherhood. You don’t hear stories of how they support girls who carry out their pregnancies.

Also read: Pro-Life Groups Who Help Girls Become Ready For Motherhood

You’re Right, Sally, We Can’t Go Back––We Have to Go Forward

The abortion issue has been at the forefront of political campaigns, especially as we near the election. We know that Kamala Harris has an extreme stance on abortion and has partnered with several abortion rights groups to further her campaign. Many are coining this coming November as “Roe-vember,” since it is clear that should the vote lean in favor of Harris-Walz, there will be an immediate motion to re-overturn Roe v Wade, legalizing abortion on a federal level. Meaning that all states will have to release any abortion bans that have been implemented and abortion centers will reopen instantaneously. 

Despite Sally Field’s remarks of “going back” to what she thinks is an obsolete system wherein women won’t have access to abortion, Save the Storks believes that this could actually be the way forward. We believe women deserve real choice. Women deserve to have healthcare providers and systems that truly support her health–physically and emotionally. 

The bottomline is this: Whether it’s 1964 or 2024, abortions are not safe. 

Regardless if abortion is accessible and legal or not, an abortion deliberately ends the life of a person and can harm a woman’s health, in the short and long term. So what is the way forward? 

It’s creating Equal Access to Motherhood^SM. It’s bringing true healthcare to women everywhere. Healthcare that doesn’t insist abortion is the only way. Healthcare that–– should a woman decide to get an abortion–– will provide post-abortive therapy. The reason abortion providers don’t offer these services is because of the false undertone that abortion isn’t a regretful experience. We know that simply isn’t true, and we’ve seen and heard countless times how much it is.

Ironically, Sally Field is the Best Movie Mom

When beloved celebrities come out with their abortion stories, it is heartbreaking. Not because of any political agenda that may be attached to the story, but because we wish someone told Sally, “you deserve better.” It’s shocking to hear that on their way to Mexico, Sally’s mother was there, too. If only she had spoken up and said, “Let’s drive back. Sally may be young, but she can do this. We’ll support her.” 

Sally Field has played the role of “mom” in so many amazing films. In fact, when you hear “Sally Field” you automatically picture her with the warmest smile telling Forrest just how special and loved he is. We bet there are days when Sally thinks what if? What if I hadn’t had the abortion? If I didn’t do it, my child would still be alive today. What if my career would have happened the way it did not because I was childless, but because I was simply talented?

To Sally: You Deserved Better

Pregnancy and motherhood don’t stop women from becoming all they were destined to be. We’ve seen time and time again how many celebrities or powerful figures were already moms before they excelled in their careers or rose in prominence. Motherhood doesn’t negate success. And we need to stop that narrative once and for all. 

You can be a mother and whatever you dream of being, too. 

To Sally: we’re sorry you had such a traumatic experience when you were so young. Truthfully, the moral of your story could have been this: Girls, an abortion is not going to solve things. It is not what “has to be done” in order to live the rest of your life. Something that will withhold you from being successful. You’re more than capable. You’re strong. You deserve better.

1. https://www.axios.com/2022/05/14/abortion-state-laws-bans-roe-supreme-court ︎
2. https://www.instagram.com/p/DAymdM8udzI/ ︎

The post Our Response to Sally Field and Her Abortion Story appeared first on Save the Storks.

What are the mental side effects of getting an abortion?

According to the British Journal of Psychiatry¹ (2018):

Women who had undergone an abortion experienced an 81% increased risk of mental health problems. 

• 34% more likely to develop an anxiety disorder
• 37% more likely to experience depression
• 110% more likely to abuse alcohol
• 155% more likely to commit suicide

The study does take into consideration if women were already abusing substances or had a history of mental health issues before receiving an abortion. Within the 81% statistic above, 10% is directly attributable to the abortion. However, it’s important to keep in mind that many women, regardless of having an unintended pregnancy or not, do report high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression due to other factors. An abortion will most likely be a compounding factor.

Simply put, an abortion does not help in alleviating any pre-existing mental health issues. In fact, it deepens or worsens what a woman may already be experiencing. And in some cases, an abortion can bring on a myriad of mental health effects experienced in the immediate post-abortion phase and long after. 

Suggested Reading: The Real Effects of Abortion on Mental Health

Being pressured to abort can cause lasting mental health issues

In a more recent study (2023), the National Library of Medicine² (NIH) aimed to determine if women who feel pressured to agree to abortion are more likely to experience negative emotional and mental health reactions. 

This is what they found:

Overall, 61% reported high levels of pressure on at least one scale (origin of pressure). Our findings confirmed that women who perceived pressure to abort, especially from their male partners, families, or other persons, are more likely to report more negative reactions to abortion. Those experiencing pressure reported more negative emotions; more disruption of daily life, work, or relationships; more frequent thoughts, dreams, or flashbacks to the abortion; more frequent feelings of loss, grief, or sadness about the abortion; more moral and maternal conflict over the abortion decision; a decline in overall mental health that they attribute to their abortions; and more desire or need for help to cope with negative feelings about the abortion. 

At Save the Storks, we hear many stories of women who were pressured into getting an abortion. In fact, one of our past staff members, boldly shares her story of feeling direct pressure to get an abortion. Sadly, this came directly from her father. He said that she would become another “single black mom statistic.” Ohers also said she would “never finish high school.” 

Also read: The Coercion of Abortion

Is abortion a traumatic experience?

Many of these studies were incited due to a widespread report by the APA Task Force on Mental Health and Abortion³ (TFMHA). It considered many variables before, during, and after an abortion, such as the state of the woman who discovered an unintended pregnancy (socio-economic, personal, cultural contexts), the reason for choosing the abortion, the type of abortion procedure performed and at what gestational point, and any post-abortion issues that may have occurred subsequently. They argued that an abortion was no more traumatic than the experience of a miscarriage or stillbirth. But therein lies the truth. The loss of a child, whether it was from a wanted or unwanted pregnancy, wherein the life was ended either through abortion or miscarriage, carries the same weight on a woman. The report says it clearly itself (citing another source): 

“Abortion is traumatic because it involves a human death experience, specifically, the intentional destruction of one’s unborn child and the witnessing of a violent death, as well as a violation of parental instinct and responsibility, the severing of maternal attachments to the unborn child, and unacknowledged grief. The view of abortion as inherently traumatic is illustrated by the statement that ‘once a [young] woman is pregnant…it is a choice between having a baby or having a traumatic experience.’”

The report concluded in saying what many on the pro-abortion side like to enforce: that no access to abortion more significantly impacts a woman in a pregnancy (intended or unintended); that abortions are only traumatic during a second or third trimester procedure (90% of abortions happen in the first trimester). But they also mention this: “Some women do experience sadness, grief and feelings of loss following an abortion, and some may experience ‘clinically significant disorders, including depression and anxiety.’”

In Conclusion: Abortions Do Cause Negative Emotional and Mental Health Outcomes

Regardless of the intention of a pregnancy or the reason for an abortion, we can agree––even with varying statistics and studies producing different results––that this is clear: women who have an abortion face physical pain and emotional trauma. They are susceptible to the many risks associated with abortion. The psychological impact of such a traumatic experience is profound and heartbreaking. 

Help us empower more women to know their options and the truth about abortion before making a decision. 

Donate today so we can offer hope and support to women facing pregnancy across the country through our mobile medical clinics.

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1. https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/the-british-journal-of-psychiatry/article/abortion-and-mental-health-quantitative-synthesis-and-analysis-of-research-published-19952009/E8D556AAE1C1D2F0F8B060B28BEE6C3D ︎
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9981219/#REF2 ︎
3. https://www.apa.org/pi/women/programs/abortion/mental-health.pdf ︎

The post Women Pressured to Get Abortions Have Worse Mental Health appeared first on Save the Storks.

“I’m Not Ready to Be a Mom”

You might be in a situation right now, facing a pregnancy you didn’t expect, doubting your capability of becoming a mom. You and every other woman who has found themselves pregnant, planned or unplanned, has felt the same way. Especially for first-time moms, the thought of a human growing inside you, your body changing, the anxiety and inevitable pain of childbirth, the constant “what ifs” – all of that can fill you with dread and fear. First off, that’s a valid feeling, and you’re not alone.

Second, there are many ways to prepare for pregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood, but let’s just alleviate the notion altogether that any woman is ready to be a mom. You can take all the classes in the world, but motherhood is an on-the-job experience and is unique to each mother. You may not feel ready to be a mom, and that’s okay. No woman ever has but guess what? There are a lot of moms in this world, so it is possible. If they figured it out (and are still figuring it out), so can you!

Will Motherhood Change Me?

You may also think that motherhood will change you, and you’re right…but only for the better. Yes, the first few months after having a child may feel like a constant fog. After all: your body has just done something amazing but incredibly taxing, and it will take some time for your hormones and natural functions to adjust. More so, you may feel that your identity has swiftly shifted from the girl or woman you once were into a caretaker of someone who is dependent on you 24/7. Know that this time will pass and eventually, you’ll start finding your way back (or forward) to yourself and all of the things that make you, you.

Furthermore, motherhood is a journey that can help you grow stronger, wiser, and even more passionate about your dreams. Many mothers actually report doing better at school or in their careers after becoming moms, since the learned skills involved in motherhood are very much applicable to work, and your child can act as the fuel to reach your goals, with the desire of providing and being a role model. 

Pro-Life Groups Who Help Girls Become Moms

There are several pro-life groups who help girls embrace the path to motherhood, either through providing services, resources, or programs, or by being an ongoing support system during and after pregnancy through a community and/or partnering organizations.

Embrace Grace

A pro-life group led by Amy Ford, Embrace Grace is an organization that provides support and community to single and pregnant young women and their families. They’re known for their “Love Boxes” which are given by centers and churches to pregnant women and moms so they can get connected to a local Embrace Grace support group.

With over 1,000 support groups and over 100,000 Love Boxes distributed, their mission is clear: that to be pro-life is to be pro-love. Their hope is that any woman facing an unplanned pregnancy or navigating motherhood as a single mom finds a community who will walk with her and her baby through every season. 

You can find a group here. 

Life of a Single Mom

This pro-life group helping girls, Life of A Single Mom, ensures that no single mom walks alone. Similar to Embrace Grace, they are an organization primarily made up of support groups, but they also offer educational resources through life skills classes in three areas: Parenting, Finances, and Health & Wellness. TLSM has worked to launch over 1,750 Single Mom support groups across the nation, and over one million moms who have connected to their programs. Over 40% have reported improvement in their overall health and 75% in their career trajectory.

You can find a Single Mom Group, enroll in Single Mom University (SMU), or attend an event near you here.

Save the Storks

Save the Storks has long supported mothers through their Mobile Medical Clinics, which provide free maternal care and support that empowers women to choose motherhood. They have over 100 mobile medical clinics across the country which cater to women in unplanned pregnancies by providing services such as pregnancy tests, STI tests, and ultrasounds. They also partner with pregnancy health centers and clinics to elevate their standard of care and ensure women are being told all their options and available support to make an informed decision. Their digital platform, For Every Woman, also serves as a database to find nearby clinics and resources, as well as educational content to empower women and moms in their overall health journey.

Find out more about what we do here.

Ready or Not, You Have What It Takes to Be a Mom

If you feel like you’re not ready to be a mom, don’t worry. There is support available to you and whether you know it or not, there are people who already believe in you. At Save the Storks, we want every woman to feel empowered in her journey to becoming a mom. We want to eliminate the obstacles and create equal access to motherhood, because every woman deserves real choice. And motherhood is a beautiful choice. If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy, reach out to us. We’d love to hear your story and how we can be of support to you. You can reach out to us via our website or socials! 

If you’d like to help empower more women to become moms, you can do so by donating today.

DONATE TODAY

Want to read more articles about motherhood?

Why Companies Should Admire a Mom’s Resume Gap

Time Management for Moms Pursuing Their Passions

Read these stories of young women choosing life: 

Becky’s Story: Pregnant in High School

Pregnant In College, Sarah Found Our Mobile Medical Clinic

The post Pro-life Groups Who Help Girls Become Ready for Motherhood appeared first on Save the Storks.

I read your recent post about Hannah Neeleman, the woman who won Mrs. World and goes by “@ballerinafarm” on social media, and was disheartened by how you chose to word her piece and the caption on Instagram. I have no personal affiliations with Hannah, nor do I follow her on social media, but her feature, in my humble opinion, felt like a subtle attack on motherhood, diminishing its beauty and the fact that mothers can, in fact, do extraordinary things.

Most of the comments on the post noted the quick postpartum recovery, which the piece seemed to perpetuate, which I agree is not the norm, but I also would not see it as impossible for a woman to do. In the case of Hannah, a woman who has given birth seven times before, whose body may already be familiar with the onset of postpartum pain and hormonal shifts, it is likely she has the ability to recover faster and may also be able to thank her genes for this. Regardless, we also don’t know how much she may have still been enduring during her time competing.

I strongly advocate for ample maternity leave and postpartum recovery, which is one of the reasons I left a former job that did not provide me adequate leave after giving birth and did not offer me remote or hybrid flexibility as a new mom. I support companies and institutions that make accommodations for mothers and fathers. I also support mothers who choose to stay at home and raise their children should the option be available to them, just as much as I support mothers who choose to go back to work and, in this case, compete in a pageant. If we’re really about choice, then all choices should be supported.

It seems as if society—led by powerful media outlets like the New York Times—aims to paint motherhood as a burden, or SAHMs as a form of oppression. On the one hand, you celebrate women who excel in their careers, mom or not, and on the other hand, you discredit the hard work of stay-at-home moms who are raising the next generation and whether they should be successful as well in business or personal branding, are setting an impossible standard.

Women can never win. Moms can never win.

If we “snap back,” we’re equally applauded for making the effort and disgraced for making it look too easy. If we choose to go back to work, we’re blamed for leaving our child and questioned as to why we would have kids in the first place if we can’t mother them 24/7. If we choose to stay at home and quit our nine-to-fives, we’re perpetuating gender roles. If we choose not to have children, then why call us women at all if we don’t live out our biological function to reproduce?

I have long looked up to the New York Times as a purveyor of truth, but this piece feels dishonest. It feels like a diminishment of motherhood and what makes it so beautiful: the fact that moms can grow life, raise life, and still have their own lives, e.g. passions, businesses, and creative endeavors.

I used to be in the entertainment industry and even competed in a few pageants, so I know firsthand the pressure to be skinny, stay young, and always look flawless. As a mom now, I do not want my daughter to grow up thinking her worth lies in the validation of keeping up with impossible beauty standards. But should she want to enter the industry one day, I would encourage her to pursue this path and remind her that her self-worth is not in how she’s scored or viewed, but in what she believes of herself.

I think Hannah is a role model not just for moms but also for little girls who grow up thinking their only chance at being successful in the pageant world or entertainment industry is when they’re unmarried, childless, and young. Hannah is an example of a woman who is proud to be a mother and compete on the world stage at the age of 33. She is an example of a woman who can be viewed as beautiful, smart, and confident, even after reaching a certain age or point in life. We do not see what goes on behind the scenes, behind her farm-life aesthetic, or behind the several births her body has miraculously performed. So, it hurts me to see your outlet use her life and story to purport the idea that mothers are not as admirable when they choose to stay at home, therefore enforcing “gender roles” or as believable if they just so happen to compete two weeks after giving birth and may come from wealth. After all, money does not absolve the challenges of motherhood and should not minimize the work it takes to build a brand and business.

Please, as you talk about motherhood and showcase mothers in different fields achieving extraordinary feats, be careful not to simultaneously take them down and color them according to a political stance or, in this case, their religious background.

I urge you to support all mothers, regardless of their choices and paths in life, and to empower women and moms who, whether they may live in the limelight or not, promote the value of hard work, nurture, and resilience.

The post A Letter to the New York Times Post About Hannah Neeleman appeared first on Save the Storks.

But if you have the courage to actually read the argument—good for you if you do—you’ll notice that both sides are talking right past each other. Your friend from Bible study will call abortion murder, and your friend from college who’s had an abortion will call it women’s healthcare. Neither will make an effort to understand what the other is saying but will blow a gasket over it anyway. No real information gets exchanged, and communication breaks down.

Facebook and family blowouts might seem trivial. But the barriers to communication don’t stay at home or on your phone—it can mean the difference between choosing life or death for a mother facing an unplanned pregnancy.

The real consequences of communication barriers

Your pro-choice friends aren’t the only people who you’re talking past—you’re likely talking past women who’ve discovered they’re pregnant and have no clue what to do.

Make no mistake—these are often women who have been to church, if not grown up in it. They have a feeling that abortion is wrong. They might know all the arguments and all the talking points.

But now they only know two things—they’re in big trouble, and they can’t tell anyone of their pro-life friends that they think abortion is their only solution.

Sure, they could call a Christian acquaintance. But what would they get? A lecture? A Bible verse with a neat background? An awkward “man, that doesn’t sound fun, but…”?

In fact, those women likely suspect that they will feel more isolated, more alone, and more ashamed if they reach out.

So, they make the only choice they think they have.

And THAT’S the real price of the communication barrier about abortion. More women feel isolated and alone, and thus choose the easiest solution to their situation.

Don’t worry—that’s not how their stories have to end! The communication barrier between you and women considering abortion can be overcome. And it’s likely a more intuitive solution than most people think…

The greatest barrier to communication

Just imagine approaching a stranger on the street and sharing a struggle you’ve been facing. How would that go? They probably say something polite, but you’d know they have one goal—to make the conversation end as quickly as possible. You could feel it.

Even worse, what if they launched into a tirade about all the foolish decisions you’ve made to deserve this struggle? Or if they talked about their problems without showing any care for how you felt?

You’d likely come away feeling rejected, foolish, and like your feelings didn’t matter. You’d feel like you weren’t on the same page, fundamentally disconnected from the other person.

That’s why you probably wouldn’t start that conversation in the first place—the risk is simply too high. That feeling of disconnection is the greatest barrier to true communication. It kills the conversation before it even starts.

Connection is the solution

You don’t need a master’s degree in psychology or communication to figure out what fosters communication. Just answer this simple, Biblical question—How would you want others to treat you if you were sharing something important?

Well, you likely want people to actually listen—that means no texting or scrolling if you’re sharing what’s on your heart. You want them to ask you questions. You want them to say something like “Wow, I have no clue how you’ve carried that around for so long. Thank you for trusting me with that!”

What you’re really after is a sense that this person sees you, knows something embarrassing about you, but isn’t repulsed by it. They know your imperfections, yet love you anyway.

In other words, you’re seeking a real connection. It’s like the late pastor Tim Keller said—“To be loved but not known is comforting but superficial. To be known and not loved is our greatest fear. But to be fully known and truly loved is, well, a lot like being loved by God.”

That’s what vaults you over communication barriers and shame. Once you become a person who connects, who makes people feel seen and safe and loved, you’ll be on your way to making a tremendous difference in the lives of women who feel lonely and afraid.

What no one wants to tell you about communication

Here’s the catch—you can’t make yourself become a person of connection. Sure, there are techniques you can learn to maximize your effectiveness. You can check out our free Start Course to learn all about it. Just log in with your Gmail account and skip to videos 8, 9 and 10 if you’re in a hurry.

But those techniques can’t replace the core of connection, which is loving other people. There’s a word for trying to gain the benefits of connection without actually caring. It’s manipulation. And while manipulation can have superficial results, it ultimately destroys relationships and creates wounds that take years to heal.

So if you’re reading this and realize that you have a major problem loving people, this mission is not for you just yet. There are planks in your eye that need care. In fact, your first step to becoming a person of connection is telling someone that you have a problem and that you need help. You might be amazed by the doors that God opens when you become vulnerable and share your heart with others!

Next steps

But what if you can say with a clean conscience you have a heart of love for women facing unplanned pregnancies? Well, there are two very easy next steps you can take…

The first is to take our free Start Course. It’s free, it takes only two hours to complete, and it covers everything from theology to communication strategies. In other words, it’s the best free resource you’ll find to overcome barriers in communication and become an effective advocate for life. Sign up with Gmail to get started, and knock it out on a weekend afternoon. Heck, why not invite some friends to share snacks while you do it? You’ll be glad you did!

The second is to call or email your local Pregnancy Health Clinic. They likely need all the help they can get. These are the places where you’ll meet women on the ground facing unplanned pregnancies who need love, support, and encouragement. Plus, the PRC might throw in some free training to further hone your skills! Check out For Every Woman to find a PRC near you.

But above all, the most important thing you can do is pray. You will only become an effective communicator and advocate for life when you become a conduit for God’s love. Otherwise, you are white noise at best, and actively harmful at worst. You can’t fake having God’s love—it only comes from asking. So ask God to grant you a heart of love. Ask to have his eyes and compassion for people. Ask for opportunities to serve. It might start slow, but you might be amazed by the doors that God opens when knock and ask!

The post Breaking Down Barriers to Communication appeared first on Save the Storks.