Reproductive Justice Training

Thank you to Leigh Hofheimer from Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence (WSCADV) for training our staff on reproductive justice!

Our training focused on educating the staff on reproductive and sexual coercion in domestic violence, and focused on access to Plan B, birth control, and reproductive rights. Leigh taught the staff about myths surrounding birth control and emergency contraception as well

What is reproductive coercion?

Reproductive coercion is a type of violence where a woman is coerced losing her bodily autonomy through her abuser. It is another way for an abuser to control a victim of DV. Reproductive justice is about full liberation for women, which relies heavily on body liberation. Without the ability to be autonomous over ones’ own body, they cannot be fully liberated. Reproductive justice is part of empowering women, one of the pillars of YWCA’s mission.

If you suspect you may be a victim of reproductive coercion, please consider speaking to a YWCA advocate. We can offer counseling services and referrals to legal representation.

What myths surround emergency contraception?

Ms. Hofheimer reminded the staff to educate the community that emergency contraception is not abortion. Abortion pills may be taken after a woman discovers she is pregnant, where emergency contraception (Plan B being the most common pill) is taken to prevent the pregnancy altogether. Access to emergency contraception can be more difficult and expensive, which is why WSCADV and YWCA recommend birth control and condoms if they are right for your body.

If you need access to emergency contraception, birth control, or condoms, please speak with a YWCA advocate who can refer you to a same day appointment with Planned Parenthood or other medical services.

Thank you to WSCADV and Leigh Hofheimer for the training! It is critical for us to be educated so we may offer better services to our community. Thank you!