The Longest Shortest Time

EPISODE #252: Embracing Your Abortion Story

When Renee Bracey Sherman got her abortion, she felt guilty — but not about the abortion itself. She felt guilty for not feeling guilty. Renee’s abortion gave her lots of joy.

Regina Mahone can relate to Renee’s fondness for her abortion. It’s something they bonded over when they became friends, and their conversations inspired them to write a book called Liberating Abortion.

In this episode, Renee and Regina get personal. They share their own abortions stories, which led one of them to realize she wanted to be a mom and the other to confirm that she didn’t.

Tune in for deep conversation about reproductive rights, some of the problematic ways we frame the topic… and sex after abortion.

More from Renee and Regina
• Book: Liberating Abortion
• Podcast: The A Files
• Website: liberatingabortion.org

From the archive
• Listen to The Scarlet A, about one of the rare OBGYNs who provides abortions (and needed one herself)

Get involved
Renee and Regina say there’s a lot you can do to help improve abortion access in your community. Start by contacting your local clinic, abortion fund, or doula collective. These places are always looking for volunteers with a wide range of skills.

Regina and Renee’s recommended reading list
• The Abortion Companion by Becca Rea-Tucker
• Killers of Roe by Nancy Littlefield
• Expecting Inequity by Khiara M. Bridges
• Killing the Black Body by Dorothy Roberts
• Relinquished by Gretchen Sission
• A book about bodies for kids: Boobies by Nancy Vo