MYTHS & FAQ's
EMPOWER YOURSELF WITH FACTS
EVERY SITUATION IS UNIQUE
We understand the emotional roller coaster you are on while you evaluate all the details of your decision. We are here to provide you with the information and care you need to make the decision that's right for you.
Abortion is not a crime. It is a MEDICAL TREATMENT. You are allowed to receive the medical care you need. Please do not let "protestors" deter you, and wear headphones to avoid any potential noise.
FACT 1: MOST ARE ON BIRTH CONTROL
More than 50% of women who receive abortions in the US were using birth control the month they got pregnant. People who receive abortions are making responsible decisions for themselves and their families.
FACT 2: MOST ALREADY HAVE KIDS
Over 60% of women who get abortions already have children, and one of the most common reasons for seeking abortion is the desire to focus on children a person already has.
FACT 3: MOST ARE BEING RESPONSIBLE
At least 50% of all pregnancies in the US are not planned. Often the biggest deciding factor for abortion is the ability to care for a child financially. Those who are low income or racial minorities may experience forced birth if they can’t get a safe, legal abortion. Those who are denied abortions tend to experience more serious financial strains than their peers of the same age.
Specifically, they were more likely to experience increased household poverty, higher debt, lower credit scores, and a higher rate of bankruptcies and evictions. Ultimately, they were less likely to have enough money for basic expenses to care for the child they were forced to carry to term. Abortion allows individuals to make proper medical choices about their life and health with compassion and care.
1. IS ABORTION SAFE?
Abortion is a safe medical procedure, and has been for decades. First-trimester abortions, in particular, carry an extremely low risk of complications. According to the Guttmacher Institute, the risk of major complications leading to a hospital visit is less than 0.05%. In fact, research shows that abortion is significantly safer than childbirth, highlighting the importance of ensuring access to safe reproductive healthcare.
2. WILL I BE ABLE TO GET PREGNANT LATER?
Yes. An old misconception is that abortion may impact fertility, but this is not supported by scientific evidence. Whether a person chooses a surgical or medication abortion, it does not increase the likelihood of infertility, ectopic pregnancies, miscarriages, or birth defects in future pregnancies. Many people who choose abortion go on to have children when they feel ready to start or expand their families.
3. IS ABORTION ABOUT RACE (EUGENICS?)
Abortion rates are not determined by race but rather by a variety of factors, including socioeconomic status and access to healthcare. Women of all races have abortions, and the reasons for seeking abortion are personal and diverse. Abortion has much more to do with equitable access to birth control and reproductive healthcare, regardless of their background.
4. IS ABORTION "LAZY" BIRTH CONTROL?
Abortion is normal, lawful, medical care, not a reflection of laziness or immorality. People are raped, condoms break, some pregnancies are not viable - there are many reasons someone may need this care. Each person who chooses abortion has their unique reasons, and it's important to respect their autonomy. In the United States, at least 1/2 of all pregnancies are unintended - so you're not alone.
5. IS TREATMENT SAFE?
Abortion procedures may sound unfamiliar or even scary - but the truth is that these procedures are common, safe and comfortable. An in-clinic abortion is a non-invasive, safe medical procedure with no long-term effects in the vast majority of cases. In fact, a person is more likely to have complications after getting their wisdom teeth removed than from having an abortion.
6. HOW I FEEL LATER?
All significant life decisions can bring a range of emotions, and we recognize and support each unique experience. Feelings of grief or sadness may arise, but studies show that an overwhelming 95% of abortion patients feel they made the right decision for themselves, despite any short term stress. Providing compassionate care and support is crucial to ensure the well-being of those who choose abortion.
7, IS ABORTION TREATMENT SELFISH?
Abortion decisions are not selfish, they are the opposite. This deeply personal decision is influenced by individual circumstances, dreams, and goals. It's not "selfish" to make the best choice for oneself and one's future. Everyone deserves the autonomy to determine their own path, including when they are ready to have children. It's important to reject sexist notions that prioritize societal expectations over an individual's well-being and aspirations.
8. IS THERE A LINK TO CANCER?
Abortion is a normal medical procedure. There is no medically accepted evidence that shows any link between abortion and any type of illness or disease. Myths exist that attempt to link abortion and breast cancer, among other diseases, but these claims are unsubstantiated by scientific data.
EMOTIONAL WELL BEING
Please know that our entire team is committed to providing you with quality care and support throughout your journey. We strive to create a non-judgmental and welcoming environment where you can feel safe and supported during this emotionally challenging time. You are not alone, and we are here to stand by your side every step of the way. You can TEXT Exhale (617-749-2948) or CALL All-Options (888-493-0092) for free and private support.
LET'S TALK FEELINGS
It is normal to experience a range of emotion, before, during and after treatment. Afterwards, studies show that an overwhelming 95% of women have no regrets, and feel their decision was the best thing for them at that time.
Some women feel an extreme sense of relief and liberation, like a weight lifted off her shoulders. Some report feeling empowered after regaining control over their lives, as they are now able to refocus on personal goals.
Self compassion and self-acceptance are common experiences as well, as she realizes that she made the right decision for herself and her future. In the depths of her soul, she may experience contentment and tranquility, knowing that she followed her heart and took control of her life.
Amidst the depth of these feelings, it is normal to experience tender heartedness, sadness, confusion, and melancholy in the days surrounding treatment. These feelings do not mean your decision is wrong - it is normal to be thoughtful and to experience deep emotions during this time. These feelings simply mean you are being thoughtful about your decision, and are experiencing a normal range of human emotions.
We are amazed at the strength our patients display, and will be here for you too. Though there may be moments of grief and somber reflection, you will find comfort knowing that you navigated your journey with courage and self compassion. It is through this forest of emotions - thoughtful, introspective, bittersweet, tender, and relieved - that you will forge your own path of healing, self-discovery, and renewed strength.
YOU ALSO HAVE PERMISSION TO FEEL: RELIEF, EMPOWERED, LIBERATED, RESILIENT, COURAGEOUS, FULFILLED, CONFIDENT, CONTENT, STRONG, PEACEFUL, EMPATHETIC, COMPASSIONATE, GRATEFUL, SUPPORTED, OPTIMISTIC, REJUVENATED, FREE, SELF-LOVING, REFLECTIVE, REASSURED, RENEWED, GROUNDED, BALANCED, ALIGNED, INSPIRED, SERENE, SELF-ACCEPTING, HOPEFUL
MICHELLE #YOUKNOWME TWEET
