Considering Having an Abortion?
March 10, 2018
You’re pregnant and you weren’t planning for this at all. You aren’t sure what to do, and you’re considering having an abortion.
This is probably a very scary, very overwhelming time for you. We want you to know that you don’t have to walk through this alone.
First, take a deep breath. Are you sure you’re pregnant? Even if you’ve had a positive pregnancy test, the way to absolutely confirm a pregnancy is with an ultrasound. If you think you’re pregnant, we can meet with you to do a medical assessment and see if you’re a good candidate for an ultrasound.
Next, take your time to think through your decision. You might feel like abortion is your only option, but you don’t have to rush into a decision. Here are some questions that might help as you weigh your options.
- Are you being led by fear right now? Sometimes fear causes us to respond differently than we would under other circumstances. Take some time to let your initial fear subside before you make a final decision.
- Do you have someone to talk to? Find someone who will listen and not judge you. Most importantly, talk to someone who won’t coerce you into a decision. If you don’t have somebody to talk to, our staff would be glad to be that listening ear for you. We’ll care for you as best we can, no matter what.
- Are you being coerced or pressured? If women are pressured or forced into an abortion, many regret it later because they feel like the choice wasn’t really theirs. We don’t want you to make this important decision because someone is pressuring you.
- Do you know what to expect with an abortion? Like any other medical procedure, abortion has potential physical risks and side effects. Before any medical procedure, it’s important to know what the possible side effects and risks are. Ask questions and do research on trusted sites so you’re educated about what will happen or what could happen to your body during and after an abortion. One of our advocates can help answer these questions for you.
- How pregnant are you? Your stage of pregnancy will affect the type of abortion you can have and how much it will cost and what risks are associated with it. An ultrasound can reveal how far along you are in your pregnancy.
- Does your decision line up with what you believe is most important in life? Take inventory of your own values and morals. Would an abortion line up with what you value and with your beliefs about right and wrong?
- What are the other options? We’d encourage you to make a list of all options — having and raising the baby yourself, having and raising the baby with the help of your support system, having the baby and placing the baby for adoption, or having an abortion. Consider making a list of the pros and cons of each option. Have a trusted friend or family member or advisor help you with these lists. That person may be able to think a little more objectively about the pros and cons than you can right now.
This is a life-changing decision. You deserve to take all the time you need to learn all the information and consider every option. You also deserve to have someone to walk with you through this decision – someone who won’t judge you or pressure you, someone who has nothing to lose or gain from your decision.
At Collage, we really care about you. This might be a very frightening, overwhelming time for you, but you don’t have to face it all alone. We’re good listeners so feel free to call us to schedule a time to come in and talk with one of our staff members.
An unexpected pregnancy can leave you with more questions than answers. Especially when friends are urging you to choose abortion, you may be more confused than ever. While their advice might come from care or fear, it’s essential to remember this is your pregnancy, future, and choice. At Collage, we’re here to help you navigate this pressure and find a path that feels right for you so that you can feel informed and confident about your decision. Reach out to us today for no-cost support. Listen to Your Instincts Your friends might be an important part of your life, but your instincts matter most. If abortion doesn’t feel right, take a moment to ask: What’s holding me back? Maybe you’re picturing parenting your child or are curious about adoption. It’s also important to keep in mind that abortion is a serious procedure that your friends may not fully grasp the details of. Physical and emotional risks are involved, making it a more complex decision. Your hesitation is a sign to slow down and explore, not to rush into a choice you’re not ready for. Talk It Out If your friends keep pressing, try a gentle conversation. Let them know you understand they’re worried, you’re not sure about abortion yet. Ask what’s driving their advice. Maybe they’re scared about your finances or future. Maybe they’re simply telling you what they’d do in your situation, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Understanding their side can ease tension without giving in. If they won’t respect your space, set boundaries and let them know you need time to think. You don’t owe them an immediate answer. Find Your Support Surround yourself with people who’ll lift you up, not pull you down. Write down your thoughts or talk to someone neutral. You can find a counselor or even online spaces where you can share your heart with those who won’t push one option over another. Even a trusted family member, a mentor, or a place like Collage can offer perspective without strings. You deserve to make this decision with clear facts and a steady heart, not under pressure. Help is Available If your friends are pushing abortion but you’re not ready, Collage is here with no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited obstetric ultrasounds, and pregnancy options education to help you decide what’s next. Our trained team offers confidential support to explore parenting, adoption, or abortion without pressure. Contact us for a no-cost appointment today. You deserve to choose your own path.
An unexpected pregnancy can flip your world upside down, and the urge to keep it under wraps might hit hard. Maybe you’re thinking abortion could erase the situation quietly.
What do you do when those closest to you start pushing you toward a decision that doesn’t feel right? Pressure from family or friends to choose abortion can leave you feeling stuck, unheard, and unsure of what to do next. How can you hold firm in your decision while dealing with well-meaning but overwhelming advice? Here’s what you can do to navigate this difficult situation with strength and resilience. Mental Health and Pressure Your decision should be your own—one that isn’t influenced by guilt or outside expectations. Studies show that women who feel pressured into abortion are more likely to experience guilt, anxiety, depression, and other negative mental health outcomes. Protecting your mental and emotional health starts with making a choice that aligns with what you truly want. Ways to Handle the Pressure Since you understand why this decision needs to be yours, here are some practical steps to help you handle outside pressure. Give Yourself Time You don’t have to decide right away. Take a moment, think through your feelings, and give yourself the gift to reflect without feeling rushed. You're less likely to regret a decision made on your terms. Learn About All Your Options Abortion isn’t your only choice. Parenting and adoption are also possibilities, each with its own forms of support and resources. Learning more about these options can help you make an informed decision you feel at peace with. Set Boundaries It can be tough to stand your ground when others have strong opinions about your decision. Clearly expressing your thoughts by setting boundaries can help you avoid unwanted pressure. Letting others know you need time and space to think can help shift the conversation away from their influence and back to what’s best for you. Advice from a Third Party Getting a different perspective on your situation can be helpful when seeking advice from someone outside your inner circle. This could be a professional counselor, an online support group, or a caring team member at Collage . You deserve people in your life who want to understand you without judgment. You Are Not Alone Even if those around you don’t fully understand, there are people who do. A supportive environment can make all the difference as you navigate this decision. Collage is here to walk with you during this time. We offer lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited OB ultrasounds, pregnancy options information, and more at no cost so you can get informed and have the support you need to move forward with certainty. Schedule a confidential appointment today.
