Ep 1074 | OBGYN Busts Myths on Miscarriages & Late-Term Abortions | Guest: Dr. Christina Francis

Dr. Christina Francis, the CEO of the American Association of Pro-Life Obstetricians and Gynecologists, emphasizes the growing divide in the OBGYN community over abortion practices. While a large percentage of obstetricians do not perform abortions, they often feel pressured to remain silent about their pro-life beliefs. This has led to the formation of her organization, which supports pro-life medical professionals amid the perceived hostility from the larger organization, ACOG, which has increasingly adopted a pro-abortion stance. Dr. Francis shares her experiences of advocating for conscience rights and highlights the challenges faced by pro-life OBGYNs in expressing their beliefs. Her organization provides a refuge for those who feel marginalized within their profession. Recent actions by ACOG, including barring pro-life representation at conferences, illustrate the growing adversarial relationship between these pro-life advocates and the established stance of mainstream medical organizations on abortion.

Medical organizations like ACOG have shifted to a pro-abortion stance, preventing open discussions about the potential risks of abortion. They avoid acknowledging any negative mental health outcomes linked to abortion, making it difficult for women to receive full informed consent. This refusal to debate or recognize the evidence raises concerns about the integrity of their medical practice and the care provided to women. Respectful discourse is needed, as women should be aware of all risks associated with their decisions. Honest conversations about fetal development and the implications of abortion are crucial for informed consent and patient safety.

Doctors are facing pressure to perform abortions, even if it conflicts with their conscience and medical ethics. Proposed laws like the Equality Act could limit a physician's ability to refuse performing or referring for abortions. As an OB-GYN, balancing care for both mother and unborn child is crucial. It’s important for physicians to have conscience protections, allowing them to practice medicine in accordance with their beliefs and the oath they took. This is especially significant in discussions about medical procedures deemed 'standard care.' Tragic incidents, such as the case of Amber Thurman, highlight the complexity and risks surrounding abortion laws and practices. Instead of a clear blame on pro-life laws, understanding the entire sequence of events and medical treatment is essential to discern fact from misinformation. Advocates emphasize the need for supportive environments where both mothers and their babies are recognized and valued.

Amber Thurman’s tragic death raises critical questions about the safety and regulation of abortion drugs. Despite the media's focus on Georgia's abortion laws, experts indicate her situation was mismanaged by medical professionals who should have provided timely care. Furthermore, the greater risk associated with abortion drugs like Mifepristone highlight the lack of proper evaluations before their use. This emphasizes the urgent need for careful oversight in their distribution and the processes involved in abortion care to prevent further tragedies. Similar concerns arose in the story of Candy Miller, shedding light on the broader implications of abortion bans and the medical community's responsibilities in ensuring patient safety for women facing unexpected pregnancies.

A tragic story highlights serious concerns about the use of abortion pills obtained without medical supervision, especially for women with high-risk conditions. In this case, a woman named Candy suffered greatly after taking the pills, fearing legal repercussions for seeking medical help. Miscommunication about laws led her to avoid necessary care, ultimately resulting in her death. This scenario illustrates the need for better education and access to professional medical guidance for women facing high-risk pregnancies or considering abortion. Laws should not deter necessary medical interactions, and misinformation can lead to devastating consequences. There must be a stronger focus on informed consent and actual healthcare for women rather than simply promoting access to abortion drugs without supervision.

Miscarriages and induced abortions are distinct medical situations. Miscarriages occur naturally, while abortions are intentional procedures to end a pregnancy. Despite confusion and fear surrounding laws post-Roe, medical professionals should still provide necessary care for miscarriages without delay. Clear communication and guidance from medical organizations can prevent harmful outcomes and misconceptions among healthcare providers and patients alike. It’s essential for individuals to understand this difference as it can influence their choices and opinions on related ballot measures.

Physicians can intervene in life-threatening situations without delay, guided by medical standards, regardless of state laws on abortion. Many doctors face confusion due to misinformation, not a lack of knowledge. Abortion in later stages is often misunderstood; doctors typically perform deliveries instead to save mothers in danger. Many late-term abortions are for non-life-threatening reasons and do not always respect the situation of both the mother and baby. There’s a need for education among physicians to clear misconceptions about their responsibilities and medical choices, ensuring better understanding and care without harm.

Women facing difficult prenatal diagnoses often feel pressured to choose abortion, based on assumptions that their child’s life would be filled with suffering. However, many children diagnosed with severe conditions can survive and thrive with proper care. Alternatives like perinatal palliative care allow families to cherish their time together, making memories and honoring their child’s dignity, rather than hastily ending a life. We must respect every life, with hope and support rather than despair and misinformation. Families should not be pushed towards abortion without knowing the full range of compassionate options that acknowledge their child's worth. Real-life stories highlight that every child has value, regardless of their medical condition, and that they can bring joy and meaning to their families’ lives. This highlights the need for better education and support for families during challenging times, promoting a culture of life over a culture of death.

There are many helpful resources available for people who are looking for pro-life physicians. You can find a directory on our website that lets you check if there are any pro-life doctors in your area who have chosen to be listed. This is a great way for the public to connect with healthcare providers that align with their values. Additionally, we have a presence on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X, where we share accurate information regarding the impact of abortion on women and the definition of genuine women's health care. Following us on social media can help keep you informed on these important topics. Thank you for your interest!