If you’re in a situation where you feel pressured to have an abortion, know there is hope and help available to you. You always have more than one option, and your pregnancy decision is yours.
Pressure to Abort and Mental Health Impacts
While every woman will react differently to an abortion experience, experts have found some factors increase the risk of mental health issues after abortion. One of these factors includes feeling pressured into making an abortion decision.
Being pressured into abortion disrupts your natural decision-making process to think through alternatives and choose the option that resonates most with you.If you are feeling pressured into having an abortion know anyone pressuring you into abortion is illegal and there is support for you at (540)372-3930.
Abortion is a life-altering decision and one that shouldn’t be made under duress. For your future emotional health, we recommend giving yourself space from pressure to make a decision you will feel comfortable with.
Think through your needs and wants. Give yourself time to process.
Assessing Your Partner Situation
There’s a difference between feeling subtly pressured by a partner’s difference of opinion and feeling afraid of your partner’s behavior.
The National Domestic Abuse Hotline lists “preventing you from making your own decisions” as one sign of partner abuse. If you suspect your partner is emotionally or physically abusive, you can find help through thehotline.org.
If your partner isn’t abusive but simply emotional about the situation, he might just need some time to cool down. His feelings could change as he processes the news.
In the meantime, you can let him know you only want to make a decision you feel comfortable with. If he cares about your relationship and is supportive, he will understand.
Confide in a Neutral Party
When you’re experiencing pressure or questions from your partner, friends, or family, it can be challenging to hear your own thoughts.
At Bright Hope Pregnancy Support Centers, you can confide in a neutral party, ready to listen as you work through your emotions. We’re here to help you understand your options and resources and provide a safe space for you during this time.
We also offer free, confidential pregnancy testing and ultrasounds to confirm your pregnancy. Schedule an appointment today!
