Is Abortion Right for You: What to Ask?
You’re unexpectedly pregnant. The two little blue lines confirm your fears. Your hands are shaking, and the tears are running down your face. You may be considering an abortion as your only way out. It’s completely understandable. The inevitable questions race through your mind—Is abortion right for me? Can I keep this a secret? How do I decide? What questions should I ask? This is a difficult decision to make, and you are the only one who can make it. Not your doctor. Not your family. Not your friends. Only you. And that means you will need to do research, ask questions, and evaluate the answers as they relate to your situation, your values and your goals. It doesn’t mean you can’t reach out for some help in finding out those answers, or look for a shoulder to lean on, to have someone listen to you. That is why we are here. The bottom line is, this decision is very personal, and only you will know what’s best for you.
What Questions Should I Ask?
As you begin to explore whether abortion is the right path for you to take, writing down all the questions you have is the best way to start, even if they seem silly to you. Remember your teachers telling you that no question was stupid? It’s true, especially now. Can’t think of any? Here are some to get you started. You will certainly come up with more, as no two situations—or women—are the same.- Can you tell me about the different abortion procedures (medical or surgical)?
- When can they or can’t they be done?
- What happens during the procedure?
- How long will it take?
- What are the risks?
- Are there any possible complications?
- Can someone come with you?
- What is the recovery period?
- Are there risks involved?
- What does it cost?
- What kind of pain relief will you provide?
- Is there follow-up care?
- Should I be tested for STDs?
- Do I need my parent’s permission to get an abortion?
- Can I get a judge’s permission so I don’t have to tell my parents? The answer to this will vary by state.