An elective abortion is often presented as a simple outpatient procedure. A woman goes into the clinic with an unwanted pregnancy and comes out with the problem gone. In speaking with women who have had abortions for many different reasons, we come to understand, however, that it is rarely that simple.

The problem seems insurmountable. So many other things are going on in our lives and there's no room for a baby. The frustration gives way to panic, fear, and confusion. Sometimes a boyfriend or relative is upset and embarrassed by the situation and insists that the pregnancy end. Desperate to "take care of the problem" an abortion seems like the easiest route. We are not ready for a baby and can trust no one to be supportive in the choice to give birth.

Many of us had strong convictions about abortion prior to facing an unplanned pregnancy. Although we may consider ourselves pro-life, our own dilemma overrides our beliefs. For those of us who considered ourselves pro-choice, this is an opportunity to take advantage of our "right to choose." Then there are others who never really thought much about the abortion issue, and in the face of a crisis pregnancy circumstantial problems take precedence. But despite our varied convictions, to most of us abortion seems like a terrible route -- but the only way out.

The abortion procedure is never as simple as it sounds... nothing's quite the same anymore. It's the very rare woman who is able to put the incident behind her and go on with life as usual. Most of us try to forget, but we can't. We have deep feelings of pain that grow stronger as time goes on.

You are not alone. Help and healing are possible. It is important to talk about your feelings with someone you trust. To facilitate this process, CareNet Pregnancy Centers offer help. Call us at 806.354.2288 to speak to someone who knows what you're going through. Or call our 24 hour helpline at 806.354.2244, or 806.350.7584 (Se Habla Español). A post-abortion support group is forming now.  

Source: Reprinted from Epigee Pregnancy Resource. Copyright Terwilliger Web Development Services, 2005. Used with permission.