Abortion care: your needs before (and after) matter

Send us Fan MailIn this episode: Our all-former-foster-youth crew takes an honest, compassionate look at healing from sexual trauma. We talk about what it means to reclaim your story— deciding if, when, and with whom to share it. Together, we explore what it looks like to heal on your own terms, without pressure or timelines imposed by society. We also offer practical tips & helpful resources to help you navigate your own healing journey. Take it from us: healing *is* possible, but it looks different for everyone. You deserve the patience, support, and space to heal at your own pace. Resources: www.RAINN.org: an anti-sexual violence organization and operator of the National Sexual Assault Hotline who offer confidential support services. Top 10 tips for developing healthy relationships: PDF download Video series Blog article On the RHEP website Content Advisory: The stories we are sharing sometimes touch on different kinds of trauma, please take care of yourself while you listen.Host:Emilio (them/ella/èl), RHEP Youth Advisory Board memberParticipants: Ayshah (she/her), RHEP Youth Advisory Board member Elyzabeth (she/her), RHEP Youth Advisory Board member About Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life:Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is a podcast from foster youth, for foster youth, with unfiltered conversations about puberty, relationships, sexual health, identity, and much more that we wish were part of our upbringing. It is hosted by the youth advisory board of the Reproductive Health Equity Project at the National Center for Youth Law. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is supported through a grant to the National Center for Youth Law from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. We are very grateful for their support. Contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Hilton Foundation. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is produced in California. Laws, policies and programs discussed in this episode may be specific to California. Watch our episodes at https://rhep.info/self-taught.Learn more about the podcast and the Reproductive Health Equity Project at www.fosterreprohealth.orgEmail us with questions, comments, and feedback at [email protected].

Send us Fan MailOur all-former-foster-youth squad chats about self-discovery, challenging gender norms, and self-care. Our speakers also discuss how to create a supportive community, and how to love yourself, even in a world that seems full of hate. You deserve self-love and the opportunity to find others who appreciate you for you! Content Advisory: The stories we are sharing sometimes touch on different kinds of trauma, please take care of yourself while you listen.Host:Emilio (them/ella/èl), RHEP Youth Advisory Board memberParticipants: Quinn, RHEP Youth Advisory Board member Tamar (she/her), RHEP Youth Advisory Board member About Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life:Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is a podcast from foster youth, for foster youth, with unfiltered conversations about puberty, relationships, sexual health, identity, and much more that we wish were part of our upbringing. It is hosted by the youth advisory board of the Reproductive Health Equity Project at the National Center for Youth Law. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is supported through a grant to the National Center for Youth Law from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. We are very grateful for their support. Contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Hilton Foundation. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is produced in California. Laws, policies and programs discussed in this episode may be specific to California. Watch our episodes at https://rhep.info/self-taught.Learn more about the podcast and the Reproductive Health Equity Project at www.fosterreprohealth.orgEmail us with questions, comments, and feedback at [email protected].

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we discuss the stigma that comes with choosing abortion care, especially for the foster youth community. Our all-former-foster-youth crew clears up important medical terms – like the differences between in-clinic abortions and medication abortions. We also give tips on how to prepare for your medical visit and consider your needs for childcare, transportation, a support person, etc. We talk about what the abortion experience can be like, and how you can be a supportive friend in the process. The decision is yours, and we are here to empower you with knowledge and confidence. Resources: Self-Taught: Abortion Care According to Former Foster Youth  Self-Taught: Knowing Your Rights to Healthcare Is this clinic right for me or my friend? (a guide from RHEP) A Teen’s Guide to Abortion (From Peer Advocates of Planned Parenthood Pasadena and San Gabriel Valley) California Abortion Access  https://abortion.ca.gov A resource made in partnership with RHEP and other trusted organizations and leaders in California.  Abortion Stigma Campaign on RHEP’s Instagram: @rhep_ca Content Advisory: The stories we are sharing sometimes touch on different kinds of trauma, please take care of yourself while you listen.Host:Derenice (she/her), RHEP Youth Advisory Board memberParticipants: Wednesday (she/her/they/them), RHEP Youth Advisory Board member Jessica (she/her), RHEP Youth Advisory Board memberAbout Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life:Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is a podcast from foster youth, for foster youth, with unfiltered conversations about puberty, relationships, sexual health, identity, and much more that we wish were part of our upbringing. It is hosted by the youth advisory board of the Reproductive Health Equity Project at the National Center for Youth Law. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is supported through a grant to the National Center for Youth Law from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. We are very grateful for their support. Contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Hilton Foundation. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is produced in California. Laws, policies and programs discussed in this episode may be specific to California. Watch our episodes at https://rhep.info/self-taught.Learn more about the podcast and the Reproductive Health Equity Project at www.fosterreprohealth.orgEmail us with questions, comments, and feedback at [email protected].

Send us Fan MailOur all-former-foster-youth squad tells all about menstrual health and periods: what they are, why they happen, and what it feels like to get one. We also share our own stories and provide tips on how to stay comfortable. We even explain the many period products you’ll see out there, such as pads, tampons, menstrual cups, period underwear, etc. After listening in, we hope you’ll realize that periods are a normal part of growing up and nothing to be embarrassed about. Your body and everything that comes with it is unique, and that’s okay. You’ve got this! Resources:  Planned Parenthood: What is Menstruation? Healthy Habits: Menstrual Hygiene Period Education Kit: Full Guide Period Talk Toolkit Amaze: Top Signs Girls are in Puberty  Content Advisory: The stories we are sharing sometimes touch on different kinds of trauma, please take care of yourself while you listen.Host:Derenice (she/her), RHEP Youth Advisory Board member Participants: Karina (she/her), RHEP Youth Advisory Board member Wednesday (she/her and they/them), RHEP Youth Advisory Board member About Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life:Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is a podcast from foster youth, for foster youth, with unfiltered conversations about puberty, relationships, sexual health, identity, and much more that we wish were part of our upbringing. It is hosted by the youth advisory board of the Reproductive Health Equity Project at the National Center for Youth Law. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is supported through a grant to the National Center for Youth Law from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. We are very grateful for their support. Contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Hilton Foundation. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is produced in California. Laws, policies and programs discussed in this episode may be specific to California. Watch our episodes at https://rhep.info/self-taught.Learn more about the podcast and the Reproductive Health Equity Project at www.fosterreprohealth.orgEmail us with questions, comments, and feedback at [email protected].

Send us Fan MailUnfortunately, not all medical workers treat foster youth with respect. In this episode, we share how we have sometimes had to stick up for ourselves to get the sexual and reproductive health care we need (and deserve!). Listeners: you have the right to ask questions, say no, and make choices about your own health. You should feel respected and listened to by your doctors— and if you don’t, it’s okay to look for someone new. Resources:Finding LGBTQ+ inclusive medical care (RHEP blog) Self-Taught: What Are Foster Youth’s Rights To Healthcare? Uber Health Is this the right clinic for me or my friend?  TeenSource clinic finder Foster Youth Bill of Rights in California  Resources for California Foster Youth: Sexual, Reproductive, and Mental Health Medi-Cal ServicesContent Advisory: The stories we are sharing sometimes touch on different kinds of trauma, please take care of yourself while you listen.Host:Emilio (them/ella/èl), RHEP Youth Advisory Board memberParticipants: Elyzabeth (she/her), RHEP Youth Advisory Board memberJessica (she/her), RHEP Youth Advisory Board memberQuinn, RHEP Youth Advisory Board member About Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life:Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is a podcast from foster youth, for foster youth, with unfiltered conversations about puberty, relationships, sexual health, identity, and much more that we wish were part of our upbringing. It is hosted by the youth advisory board of the Reproductive Health Equity Project at the National Center for Youth Law. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is supported through a grant to the National Center for Youth Law from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. We are very grateful for their support. Contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Hilton Foundation. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is produced in California. Laws, policies and programs discussed in this episode may be specific to California. Watch our episodes at https://rhep.info/self-taught.Learn more about the podcast and the Reproductive Health Equity Project at www.fosterreprohealth.orgEmail us with questions, comments, and feedback at [email protected].

Send us Fan MailWe’re kicking off Season 3 with a convo our all-former-foster-youth podcasters are so eager to explore— How can we prioritize our mental health while navigating romantic relationships?  Derenice and Myh’Keith explain ways to talk openly—even about the hard stuff. They also explain how “growth-bonding” can be a great way to build your relationship.  We get into the red flags that might signal a relationship is not right for you. Remember: your relationship with yourself is just as important as your relationship with someone else. We hope to help you understand that meeting your needs is not selfish. In fact, doing so can actually help you become a better partner in the long run. Resources:Our Top 10 tips for developing healthy relationships: PDF download Video series Blog article On the RHEP website Learn how to engage in honest communication, even in times of conflict:  ”The Most Effective Way to Make a Request” “All About Communication” Get help learning when it’s time to grow and when it’s time to move on:  “9 Questions to Assess the Health of Your Relationship” “Warning Signs of Abuse” 4 Tips for Having a Difficult Conversation With Your Partner How to Balance Your Independence and Interdependence for Healthy Relationships Content Advisory: The stories we are sharing sometimes touch on different kinds of trauma, please take care of yourself while you listen.Host:Derenice (she/her), RHEP Youth Advisory Board memberParticipant: Myh’Keith (he/him), RHEP Youth Advisory Board memberAbout Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life:Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is a podcast from foster youth, for foster youth, with unfiltered conversations about puberty, relationships, sexual health, identity, and much more that we wish were part of our upbringing. It is hosted by the youth advisory board of the Reproductive Health Equity Project at the National Center for Youth Law. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is supported through a grant to the National Center for Youth Law from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. We are very grateful for their support. Contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Hilton Foundation. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is produced in California. Laws, policies and programs discussed in this episode may be specific to California. Watch our episodes at https://rhep.info/self-taught.Learn more about the podcast and the Reproductive Health Equity Project at www.fosterreprohealth.orgEmail us with questions, comments, and feedback at [email protected].

Send us Fan MailHow do hormonal and non-hormonal birth control methods work? How can you properly use birth control? As a young person in the foster care system, how can you advocate for yourself? The good news is there is no one-size-fits-all approach. It’s all about what works best for you.  Kat and Brandy of RHEP’s Youth Advisory Board talk about their personal experiences with birth control and provide an overview of the variety of birth control methods available. Content Advisory: The stories we are sharing sometimes touch on different kinds of trauma, please take care of yourself while you listen.Host: Kat, Youth Advisory Board MemberParticipants: Brandy, Youth Advisory Board memberResources:Visit Bedsider for more information on birth control methods.About Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life:Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is a podcast from foster youth, for foster youth, with unfiltered conversations about puberty, relationships, sexual health, identity, and much more that we wish were part of our upbringing. It is hosted by the youth advisory board of the Reproductive Health Equity Project at the National Center for Youth Law. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is supported through a grant to the National Center for Youth Law from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. We are very grateful for their support. Contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Hilton Foundation. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is produced in California. Laws, policies and programs discussed in this episode may be specific to California. Watch our episodes at https://rhep.info/self-taught.Learn more about the podcast and the Reproductive Health Equity Project at www.fosterreprohealth.orgEmail us with questions, comments, and feedback at [email protected].

Send us Fan MailKat, Elyzabeth, Alexis, and Esme talk about the unique challenges (former) foster youth face when accessing the mental healthcare services they need. Esme, Community Policy Associate, Mental Health Team at National Center for Youth Law, points to key resources that you might find useful, drawn from “A Young Person’s Guide to Accessing Affordable Mental Health Care.” Guests share their stories, including the little and big ways that they take care of themselves. As always, we keep it real.   Resources:A Young Person’s Guide to Accessing Affordable Mental Health Care: https://youthlaw.org/resources/young-persons-guide-accessing-affordable-mental-health-services-under-medi-calFoster Youth Bill of Rights for the State of California: https://fosteryouthhelp.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/276/2020/10/Foster-Youth-Bill-of-Rights-WIC-16001.9_ADAComplaint.pdfA Home Within provides free weekly one-to-one therapy to people who have experienced foster care: https://www.ahomewithin.org/ Content Advisory: The stories we are sharing sometimes touch on different kinds of trauma, please take care of yourself while you listen.Host:Kat, Youth Advisory Board Member Participants: Elyzabeth, Youth Advisory Board memberAlexis, Youth Advisory Board memberEsmeralda Cortez Rosales, Community Policy Associate, Mental Health Team at National Center for Youth LawAbout Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life:Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is a podcast from foster youth, for foster youth, with unfiltered conversations about puberty, relationships, sexual health, identity, and much more that we wish were part of our upbringing. It is hosted by the youth advisory board of the Reproductive Health Equity Project at the National Center for Youth Law. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is supported through a grant to the National Center for Youth Law from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. We are very grateful for their support. Contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Hilton Foundation. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is produced in California. Laws, policies and programs discussed in this episode may be specific to California. Watch our episodes at https://rhep.info/self-taught.Learn more about the podcast and the Reproductive Health Equity Project at www.fosterreprohealth.orgEmail us with questions, comments, and feedback at [email protected].

Send us Fan MailLet’s talk about how to stay safe and prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), also known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). We discuss methods for safe sex, relatable accounts of what it’s like to navigate the healthcare system with an STI, shaking off stigma, being open and feeling safe with partners, and more. Tamar and Cody of RHEP’s Youth Advisory Board are joined by Lonnell Schuler, Black Women for Wellness, program lead for Get Smart B4U Get Sexy. If you have any questions about this critical information, be sure to check out these useful resources:Content Advisory: The stories we are sharing sometimes touch on different kinds of trauma, please take care of yourself while you listen.Resources:About Condoms (including video for how to put on a condom), Planned ParenthoodBirth Control, Condom, BedsiderBirth Control, Internal Condom, BedsiderAbout Dental Dams, Planned ParenthoodWhat is PrEP? Planned ParenthoodWhat is PEP? Planned ParenthoodBlack Women for Wellness: an organization committed to advancing the health and well-being of Black women & girls through education, empowerment and advocacyTeenSource: Teen health resources and information on STI's, Birth Control and free health clinics and health resources near youAPLA Health: providing world-class LGBTQ+ empowering healthcare, HIV specialty care, food, housing and other essential support servicesDontThinkKnow.org: a way to get STI testing from homeHost:Tamar, Youth Advisory Board MemberParticipants: Cody, Youth Advisory Board MemberLonnell Schuler, Black Women for Wellness, program lead for Get Smart B4U Get SexyAbout Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life:Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is a podcast from foster youth, for foster youth, with unfiltered conversations about puberty, relationships, sexual health, identity, and much more that we wish were part of our upbringing. It is hosted by the youth advisory board of the Reproductive Health Equity Project at the National Center for Youth Law. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is supported through a grant to the National Center for Youth Law from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. We are very grateful for their support. Contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Hilton Foundation. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is produced in California. Laws, policies and programs discussed in this episode may be specific to California. Watch our episodes at https://rhep.info/self-taught.Learn more about the podcast and the Reproductive Health Equity Project at www.fosterreprohealth.orgEmail us with questions, comments, and feedback at [email protected].

Send us Fan MailDid you know that there is a Foster Youth Bill of Rights? These rights ensure that foster youth have the opportunity to get the healthcare they need and deserve— including sexual & reproductive services.Tamar and Alexis of RHEP’s Youth Advisory Board sit down with Rebecca Gudeman, a lawyer and the Senior Director of Health at the National Center for Youth Law (NCYL), to highlight many of these rights for youth in California and to talk about what often gets in the way of youth in care being able to fully benefit from them. Bottom line: you have the right to make decisions about your own body. Content Advisory: The stories we are sharing sometimes touch on different kinds of trauma, please take care of yourself while you listen.Host:Tamar, Youth Advisory Board MemberGuests:Rebecca Gudeman, Senior Director, Health, National Center for Youth LawAlexis, Youth Advisory Board member, former foster youthResources:Visit https://fosterreprohealth.org/resources/ for information on accessing care, finding a clinic near you, birth control methods, and more. Foster Youth Bill of Rights for California lists the rights Rebecca spoke about as well as others.About Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life:Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is a podcast from foster youth, for foster youth, with unfiltered conversations about puberty, relationships, sexual health, identity, and much more that we wish were part of our upbringing. It is hosted by the youth advisory board of the Reproductive Health Equity Project at the National Center for Youth Law. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is supported through a grant to the National Center for Youth Law from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. We are very grateful for their support. Contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Hilton Foundation. Self-Taught: Former Foster Youth on Sex, Health, and Life is produced in California. Laws, policies and programs discussed in this episode may be specific to California. Watch our episodes at https://rhep.info/self-taught.Learn more about the podcast and the Reproductive Health Equity Project at www.fosterreprohealth.orgEmail us with questions, comments, and feedback at [email protected].