Abortion and Motherhood Series: Day Two

When I discovered that I was pregnant I was devastated. I was 43 years old and I had just rebuilt my life. I had been homeless and was unemployed for a couple of years. My oldest son is going to college and having another child at this time might possibly cost me everything. I also have health issues and I wouldn’t be able to work long if pregnant. There are very few jobs out there so I just couldn’t risk losing mine and the well being of my other children and myself for this pregnancy. I never thought I would have to make a decision like this but I am grateful I was able to make this choice which was the best (and only) for my family.

–Destiny*

Only you know what’s best for you! I am 26 years old and I am going through a lot of emotional issues right now. I decided to terminate this pregnancy because I am not stable enough to have another child. I have a 7-year-old son who is my whole world. He is the only person who loves me unconditionally and he is such a positive and wonderful presence in my life. It was hard for me to come to this decision, but I am confident that it’s the right one for me. I will have plenty of time to have another child but that time is not now.

–Veronica*

Over one-third of women of reproductive age have an abortion by the age of 45. However, women who have chosen abortion are often absent from the public debate. In order to break the silence surrounding abortion, we feature real stories from real women on our blog. If you would like to share your story with us or have it published on our blog, go to http://www.prochoice.org/pregnant/hotline/share.html.

*Name changed to protect patient privacy.