15 May Signs You Are Being Pressured into an Abortion Decision
Your family or friends, out of concern, may frighten you with potential (and extreme or rare) negative outcomes regarding parenting or adoption. This can feel like pressure when what you need most is someone to help you carefully weigh all your options.
You may have direct signs and indirect signs you are being pressured into an abortion decision. Legally, no one can force you into an abortion. Even if you are under 18 years old, you cannot be forced to have an abortion against your will.
Direct Pressure Signs
Are you being told by your partner or your parent to get an abortion? Or maybe you’re being blackmailed into an abortion. The person might be saying that they will not support you or your child if you choose an option other than abortion. These are all signs of direct pressure into an abortion.
You may even feel like your safety is at risk. If this is the case, call the National Domestic Abuse Hotline immediately. A representative can help you with the resources you need to find safety.
Indirect Pressure Signs
Some signs you are being pressured into an abortion decision could be small. Your parent or parents could be hinting that a child would not be good for you right now due to your financial state or mental state.
Maybe your partner is suggesting that this will be difficult on your relationship or this is going to be the end of your social life. Though these are indirect signs, it doesn’t make them ok.
You Make the Final Call
A study by the Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons shares that almost 75% of women who had an abortion felt at least subtly pressured into getting one. And of these women who felt pressured into abortion, many suffered severe mental health outcomes afterward, including feelings of:
- Shame
- Guilt
- Regret
- Self-hatred
- Low self-esteem
- Anxiety
You know yourself best, and it’s important to make this pregnancy decision for yourself, as you will be the one most impacted in the days and years to come.
Talk Safely & Confidentially
Confirming your pregnancy medically and knowing how far along you are before making a final pregnancy decision is essential. Safeguard your health by learning details of your pregnancy through our no-cost pregnancy testing and limited ultrasound.
Once your pregnancy is confirmed, we are here to inform you about all your options. We will never pressure you into a decision you don’t want to make. Schedule a no-cost appointment to learn more.