I was about a week late, still hoping this growing worry would be relieved with a bathroom visit. I finally broke down to a friend and told her of my worry. I didn't feel pregnant. But then, a night or two later I had a dream that it was all true. When I woke up, I knew, I knew I was pregnant.

My friend came over with a test. As she smoked on my patio, I went in to a take the test. It turned positive almost immediately. I became numb, and switched to my wholly logic side - how do I procure an abortion? Thankfully, I found out abortion, while largely considered illegal, was widely available. My local OB/GYN clinic could do the procedure. With three wonderful girlfriends around me and my own conviction I was certain the procedure would only leave me relieved.

I spoke with Matt, the man with whom I conceived. It was a quick, awkward, and generally painful discussion from thousands of miles away. He was as supportive as he could be, asking me how I was and if I’d be OK. With that final discussion, there was nothing more than the clinic visit.

That morning my friend which I worked with, went to our school and covered for my absence. Another girlfriend picked me up and we headed to the clinic. Using my Korean cheat sheet, I was able to express my desire to have an abortion. The woman I checked in with took me to an office. There we established some basic medical history, last period, and Matt’s agreement. Afterward, I went back to the waiting room. Not long after that, I was waved into the doctor’s office. He confirmed the basics once again, then directed me behind a curtain for an ultrasound.

I thought this would be the difficult part--seeing what was growing inside me. But I could hardly see anything and it just solidified my decision. The doctor informed me I was just 4-5 weeks pregnant. I became pregnant only a couple days before I left the States.

Again, back to the waiting room. A bit later, the same nurse grabbed my hand. She had me sign a consent form. After a few misunderstandings, I realized she wanted me to forge Matt’s approval. Then, I was given a prescription.

After all these formalities, including running a credit card, I was taken into the surgery room. I took off my pants and underwear and was given a skirt to put on. Then, I was positioned on the operating table and my legs were tied down. I was put on an IV and given a shot in the ass.

I laid there for a few minutes listening to some bad 80s music. I chuckled at the thought of this music framing my experience. Moments later a few nurses and the doctor arrived.

The doctor had me take a deep breath and then placed my left hand on my chest. A few more deep breaths and I was out. I didn't know that I would be out. I didn't’t know much at all--everything was communicated in broken English!

Some unknown time later, my friend who had come with me was above me, saying she had to leave for work now. I quickly returned to my slumber, barely registering why I was there. The next thing I remember was a nurse coming to remove my IV. Again, I dozed for a few minutes, but soon woke up and decided to dress. After finding that first nurse again, she escorted me to the pharmacy. I walked home, still a bit drugged, but rather comfortable.

I am thankful that I had the abortion in Korea. When I talk to other women or read their stories, I see how but stress was relieved by my geography. I didn't have to go through the stressful abortion clinic experience. I didn't have to go for two visits. I didn't even have to hear the dreadful suction machine. In fact, it still amazes me that sedation isn't more common or encouraged in the States. I’m feeling well physically, and well emotionally. While I wish I had never let myself get in this situation, I know I will not grow to regret my decision.