Although I have had a mostly conservative, Roman Catholic upbringing, I have a “pro-choice” stance on abortion which, according to Wikipedia, means I believe that, “a woman should have complete control over her fertility and the choice to continue or terminate a pregnancy.” I feel quite strongly about this, so when I heard about Abby Johnson, the former director of a Planned Parenthood clinic in Texas who quit her job in October and switched from “pro-choice” to “pro-life,” I wanted to learn more about what exactly got her to this decision. Apparently, after witnessing an abortion and receiving pressure from her bosses to increase profits by increasing the number of abortions at her clinic, Johnson became disillusioned with her job and resigned. She claims she experienced a “spiritual conversion” and has joined a “pro-life” prayer group.

Since leaving Planned Parenthood, she has made some controversial statements regarding the healthcare provider, which has almost 100 locations and affiliate offices nationwide, as well as several international operations. According to Fox News, Johnson said, “Every meeting that we had was, 'We don't have enough money, we don't have enough money — we've got to keep these abortions coming.’ It's a very lucrative business and that's why they want to increase numbers.” Although I am not sure how valid these claims are, they are still upsetting. I am an avid supporter of Planned Parenthood, so hearing such allegations is very disappointing. If this is true, then it totally undermines the goal of those who are “pro-choice” and want to empower and support any woman who is struggling with the already difficult decision on whether or not to keep her unborn baby.

I do not know if I could ever go through an abortion myself, but I do believe that other women should have the chance to make their own decisions. Before going through an abortion, however, they must be educated on how significant and major their decision is and that an abortion should only be a last resort. I cringe to think of girls who use abortion as a form of contraception and birth control. However, according to The Houston Chronicle, studies have shown that there has been a 25 percent decline in abortions since the abortion rate peaked in 1990, so it is understandable—though, in no way do I condone it—that Planned Parenthood and other abortion clinics have chosen to push for “abortion outreaches and sales” as opposed to more preventive educational options.

Planned Parenthood, if you want the continued support of certain “pro-choice” advocates such as myself, then you will have to focus more attention on education as a form of unwanted pregnancy prevention rather than abortions.

-Karen is a blogger for The Daily Vine. Check out her bio to see where her view comes from.

Sources/Related Links

Planned Parenthood Director Quits After Watching Abortion on Ultrasound, Fox News

Study finds big decline in abortions, The Houston Chronicle

Planned Parenthood