Choosing Life: Deciding Against Abortion
- Louisa Mastromarino
- Apr 9
- 3 min read
The decision to continue or terminate a pregnancy is profoundly personal, often influenced by a myriad of factors including health, economic circumstances, and personal beliefs. While every individual has the right to make a decision that aligns with their values, this blog post explores the considerations and implications surrounding the decision not to get an abortion.
The Decision Against Abortion
The choice not to undergo an abortion often stems from a combination of personal beliefs, values, and circumstances. Many individuals hold religious or philosophical views that prioritize the sanctity of life from the moment of conception. A significant number of women cite moral or ethical reasons for their decision to carry an unexpected pregnancy to term.
Additionally, some individuals may feel a strong connection to the potential life they are nurturing. Many people perceive their pregnancy as a unique opportunity for growth, not just for their child, but also for themselves. The decision to forgo abortion can be seen as a courageous embrace of responsibility and hope.
Safe Haven Laws: An Option for New Parents
For those who face challenging circumstances but choose against abortion, understanding Safe Haven Laws is paramount. These laws, which exist in all 50 states, allow a parent to relinquish their newborn to designated locations, such as hospitals or fire stations, without fear of prosecution. The intent behind these laws is to protect infants from abandonment and provide parents with an alternative when they feel unable to care for their child.
According to a report by the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (2019), Safe Haven Laws have led to a significant decrease in infant abandonment cases, providing a critical safety net for both parents and children. By allowing parents to surrender their infants safely, these laws offer a compassionate approach to an incredibly difficult choice.
Legal Framework and Implementation
Each state has its own Safe Haven Law with varying stipulations regarding the age of the infant, locations for surrender, and whether or not the parent must provide medical history. For instance, in California, parents can leave a baby less than 72 hours old at any licensed hospital or designated safe haven, without facing legal repercussions (California Health and Safety Code, 2019).
Ultimately, the decision to not pursue an abortion is deeply personal, shaped by an array of factors including values, beliefs, and individual circumstances. For those who find themselves in challenging positions yet choose to proceed with pregnancy, Safe Haven Laws provide a legal and compassionate option. Understanding these laws can offer support and reassurance, allowing individuals to make empowered choices that affirm life.
Making a choice that embraces life can yield profound impacts, and by understanding the support systems available, such as Safe Haven Laws, individuals can navigate these pivotal moments with more confidence and clarity.
Louisa Mastromarino is a certified counselor educator and Licensed Spiritual Health Coach. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications, a Master of Science Degree in School Counseling, and a post master’s degree in Supervision and Educational Leadership. Louisa is the author of Spifford Max and the Cycle Pups Go to Washington, D.C., and additional publications. Louisa's work has been highlighted in the noted publications Careers from the Kitchen Table by Raven Blair Davis and Miracles in the Divine by Beverly Pokorski. For appointments in spiritual coaching email distantholistic@gmail.com. Thank you.
References
California Health and Safety Code. (2019). *Safe surrender of infants*.
Harding A. Safe haven laws. J Emerg Nurs. 2009 Jul;35(4):352-3. doi: 10.1016/j.jen.2009.01.011. Epub 2009 Mar 12. PMID: 19591734.
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation. (2019). *Infant Safe Haven Laws: A Comprehensive Review*. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
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