TESTIMONIES FROM THOSE WHO PROVIDE ABORTION SUPPORT
Through more than 47 testimonies collected in 15 countries, in contexts as diverse as Myanmar, France, Benin, and Mexico, the report Heal, Resist gives voice to gynaecologists, midwives, doctors, social workers, and other professionals committed to ensuring access to abortion. These accounts reflect the diversity of realities faced by those seeking an abortion and describe what it means to provide support when access to abortion remains hindered, stigmatized, or criminalized. They speak of the obstacles and violence encountered, but also of the strength found in commitment, solidarity, and the capacity to act.
“OUR ROLE IS TO ENSURE PERSON-CENTRED CARE, PROVIDE CLEAR INFORMATION, OFFER NON-JUDGMENTAL SUPPORT, AND RESPECT THEIR AUTONOMY.”
LISTEN, INFORM, SUPPORT: ENABLING A FREE AND INFORMED DECISION
Supporting someone through an abortion means enabling them to make a free and informed decision, without judgment and without healthcare professionals deciding for them. When healing becomes an act of resistance.
“CARE IS NOT JUST ABOUT TREATING A BODY: IT CAN ALSO RESTORE DIGNITY, SAFETY, AND TRUST.”
But the testimonies also recount what happens when laws or healthcare system practices obstruct this support.
“I OFTEN THOUGHT THAT IF I HAD SIMPLY REFERRED HER TO COMPETENT SERVICES, SHE MIGHT STILL BE ALIVE TODAY. THIS EXPERIENCE PROFOUNDLY CHANGED MY PERCEPTION OF ABORTION AND THE RESPONSIBILITY OF HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS. IT WAS A TURNING POINT IN MY CAREER.”
“RESTRICTIVE LAWS DO NOT PREVENT PEOPLE FROM NEEDING AN ABORTION. THEY ONLY ELIMINATE THE POSSIBILITY OF ACCESSING A SAFE ABORTION AND PUNISH THE MOST VULNERABLE WOMEN.”
WHEN HEALING BECOMES AN ACT OF RESISTANCE
In many contexts, providing support can become a form of resistance. A resistance that is not just about opposing, but also about creating spaces of autonomy and reclaiming power over one’s health and body.
“FOR ME TOO, IT IS A FORM OF RESISTANCE. IT IS RESISTING STIGMATIZATION, RESISTING THE IDEA THAT SOMEONE ELSE CAN DECIDE WHAT WE DO WITH OUR BODIES.”
FOUR LESSONS FOR ACTION
The testimonies highlight four key issues, complementing Médecins du Monde’s broader recommendations to ensure the right to abortion and its effective access:
- Protect those who make abortion possible so they can act without facing threats, violence, discrimination, or legal proceedings, particularly abortion care providers.
- Ensure reliable information and change the narrative around abortion.
- Support feminist and community movements and recognize and support self-managed medical abortion to enable individuals to take greater control over their journey.
TAKE A STAND, SPEAK OUT, UNITE: LET’S ACT!
In the face of setbacks to sexual and reproductive rights and the rise of discourses that shame and stigmatize abortion, silence and inaction are no longer options. Healthcare professionals and those who support individuals seeking an abortion have an essential role to play.
Care is an act of resistance. It is up to us to act so that no one is forced to risk their health, dignity, or life to decide about their body and future.