Pregnancy Crisis and Homelessness Intersection
- Bhavya Goel
- Nov 27, 2023
- 2 min read
Statistically, a substantial 27 percent of Canada’s homeless population comprises women, a significant portion of whom fall within the vulnerable age group of 16 to 50, often facing the intersection of pregnancy and homelessness. This intricate connection between pregnancy and homelessness can unfold in two directions. On one hand, women may find themselves homeless due to unwanted pregnancies, stemming from family rejection or financial incapacity to support a child. Conversely, pregnancies may result from the vulnerabilities women face such as sexual assault and engaging in prostitution as a means of survival.
Now, one might question why a homeless woman facing pregnancy doesn’t opt for abortion, a seemingly logical choice. However, this decision is far from straightforward due to its deeply emotional nature. Exploring the psychological impact of abortion reveals potential mental health issues, including stress, anxiety, depression, regret, shame, anger, loneliness, and poor self-esteem. Additionally, it may trigger insomnia, eating disorders, or suicidal thoughts, as highlighted by the American Pregnancy Association.
Shifting from the personal and emotional aspects of abortion, it's crucial to consider its legal dimensions. Currently, 67 out of 195 countries globally have legalized abortion, but the conditions and time frames for legal abortion vary widely. Recent events, such as the legalization debates in the United States, sparked nationwide protests, leading to diverse responses from different states—some modified their laws, and some were reluctant to change, reflecting the complex legal landscape surrounding abortion.
When contemplating the alternative scenario where homeless women give birth, concerns arise about the prospects for these children. Will they have a bright future? Can they access equal resources, opportunities, and societal support? Unfortunately, the bitter reality is a resounding no. Children born in homeless shelters often endure physical ailments and, more significantly, suffer from mental disorders. The chances of such children overcoming these challenging conditions to achieve success are, regrettably, close to zero.
Addressing the intersection of pregnancy and homelessness necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the emotional, personal, and legal aspects involved. It calls for a nuanced approach that considers the well-being of homeless women, recognizing the challenges they face and offering support systems that extend beyond mere legal frameworks.
Works Cited
National Library of Medicine. (29 Oct 2018). The abortion and mental health controversy
GYN Choices of central jersey. (1 December 2019). How Abortion Can Impact Your Mental Health. https://www.gynchoicesofcentraljersey.com/blog/how-abortion-can-impact-your-mental-health/
Robin E Clark, Linda Weinreb, Julie M. Flahive, Robert W. Seifert. (May 2019). Infants Exposed to Homelessness: Health, Health Care Use, And Health Spending From Birth to Age Six. https://www.healthaffairs.org/doi/10.1377/hlthaff.2019.00090
