I had an abortion just yesterday and feel compelled to share my positive experience. I was working full time and had just started CNA classes when I found I was pregnant. My boyfriend was happy he later told me but I was crushed. I broke down crying when I saw the two lines. I went to a clinic for another test and it too was positive. They gave me a lot of information mainly about adoption. I had already decided abortion was best. I live with my boyfriend and we have been together 4 years. But we live at his Mom's because we can't afford a place yet. I had complications with the pregnancy that led me to quit my job and go to the ER soon after. The doctor put me on bed rest. I was torn between keeping the baby or aborting it. My family was of little help all worried and having their opinion. I was stressed and sick from morning sickness. Just drained. I felt after having to also give up school that my life had taken a spiral to ruin. I applied for welfare with my boyfriend and got Medi-Cal. I researched abortion online and found Medi-Cal pays for the whole thing, which was a huge relief.
As soon as I received my temporary card I made the appointment. My Mom drove me and I wasn't nervous. I had peace that this was the right decision for me. I had discussed with my boyfriend and my family. Talked to myself and God and know in my heart it was right for me. Everyone at the clinic was so nice. They did all they could to make all of us girls waiting feel comfortable. There were two waiting rooms. I had a sonogram, blood drawn and changed into a gown putting my stuff in a locker. I didn't see any protesters but another girl did. That upsets me that people can't accept and support other people's decisions and what they feel is right for them. I wasn't ready to give up my future and career. I am 23 and never wanted kids. I wasn't as careful as I should have been and so I will be in the future. I was put to sleep in the operating room after meeting the nurse, doctor and other person in control of the pain medication. All very nice and they reassured me they would take good care of me. I had an IV put in and was out to sleep so fast. I woke up with cramps like a bad period. My legs were numb and I was drowsy. In no time I was asked to put on a pad for the mild bleeding and if I wanted to go home. I said yes and so the nurse helped me up and walked me back to my locker and changing area. I was very drowsy off the drugs they put me to sleep with that it took me a few minutes to put my clothes on and discard the gown. After I was offered crackers and juice. I called my Mom to come pick me up and sat down very tired but not in much pain. My lower stomach was tender. The nurse there gave me two medications one for infection the other for pain and then I went to another room and laid down on a bed falling asleep until I was told my ride was there. It was over so fast and it didn't hurt nearly as much as I had imagined. I awoke knowing I did the right thing and am still very positive about it and my future.
This is a decision I do not regret. I am happy that all the pro-life lies didn't get to me. I read it hurt more than an amputation, you will feel empty and regret it. It didn't hurt and I don't feel bad. I had depression the whole 11 weeks of the pregnancy and it was lifted when this was done. The morning sickness and fatigue is gone. I feel like me again. Now I can enroll back in school and get things going again. I just had to share my positive experience since I have seen so many lies and negativity surrounding this choice we women should be entitled to have without judgment.
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