What are the reasons abortion seems like the best option for me?
Often in life when we encounter something unexpected our first thought is, “How am I going to make this work?” At Options for Women, we realize that same reaction applies to an unplanned pregnancy. We recognize an unplanned pregnancy comes with a range of emotions including: shock, emotional numbness, disappointment, fear, anxiety or stress. When all of these thoughts and feelings get mixed up together, we may look for an escape; a way to erase or undo the situation we find ourselves in. For some women, abortion feels like the only option due to their life circumstances.
Do any of these reasons apply to your situation?
You feel like you do not have everything in order the way you imagined before having children
You might already have children and adding another child feels too overwhelming
You may feel like things are too tight financially to have a child
You may not have adequate housing
You may be temporarily without a job
You may want to finish school and believe having a baby would get in the way of your goals
You feel like you do not have enough support from the baby’s father or your other family members
If you are dealing with even one of the reasons listed above, it’s understandable why abortion may feel like the only way forward. But it’s important to allow yourself time to make a well-informed decision. Put your decision making in perspective. Honestly ask yourself a few key questions that will help you identify why abortion seems like the best way forward and help bring clarity to your decision making process:
Why do I feel abortion is the best option for me?
Would I consider a different option if my circumstances were different?
What problem(s) am I hoping abortion will solve?
Would I feel differently about this decision 5 years from now? 10 years from now?
What concerns do I have about continuing the pregnancy?
Have I thoroughly explored all of my options – including adoption and parenting – and know what resources are available to me?
If your circumstances are the primary reason you are considering abortion, know that circumstances can change. Also know there are a variety of community resources and organizations designed to support moms in our community (including our programs here at Options for Women). Schedule an appointment today to meet with one of our staff for to process your decision in a confidential and nonjudgmental environment.
