Getting an Abortion in Idaho

THIS PAGE WAS CREATED FOR WOMEN 12 WEEKS PREGNANT OR LESS – WHO WANT THE ABORTION PILL FROM A TRADITIONAL ABORTION CLINIC  (INSTEAD OF ORDERING IT ON-LINE).     SOME OF THESE CLINICS ALSO OFFER SURGICAL ABORTIONS.  CALL FOR DETAILS.  

…….FOR ALL PREGNANCIES AFTER 12 WEEKS THAT REQUIRE SURGICAL ABORTIONS, SEE BELOW

For Boise-area women:

Planned Parenthood – Ontario, OR
640 SW 4th Ave,   Ontario, OR 97914
Phone: 888-875-7820
Website: plannedparenthood.org/health-center/oregon/ontario/97914/ontario-health-center-3853-91400

Services: Medication abortions (the abortion pill) up to 11 weeks – $700. Financial assistance available. 

For Pocatello, Idaho Falls, and Eastern Idaho women

All Families Healthcare [physical location in Whitefish MT] for an abortion pill, via telemedicine, mailed to an Idaho-Montana border town – 94 miles from Idaho Falls*
Phone: 406-730-8682
Website: allfamilieshealth.org/medication-abortion-by-mail

Services: Medication abortions (the abortion pill) up to 11 weeks – $350. Call to order the abortion pills mailed to you at an authorized US Post Office General Delivery location on the Idaho-Montana border.** Full service – nurse practitioner consultation and extra-support assistance provided. Financial assistance available.

**Note: Montana law allows for telemedicine and abortion pills sent to Idaho residents and picked up in any Montana town. Call for details.

Wellspring Health Access – Casper, WY
918 E. 2nd Street,   Casper, WY 82601
Phone: 307-224-7851
Website:  wellspringaccess.org 

Services: Medication abortions (the abortion pill) up to 11 weeks – $600. Surgical abortions up to 24 weeks — $600 and up depending on length of pregnancy.  Financial assistance available. 

For Moscow – North Central Idaho Women

Planned Parenthood – Pullman, WA
1525 SE King Dr,  Pullman, WA  99163
Phone: 866-904-7721
Website: plannedparenthood.org/health-center/washington/pullman/99163/pullman-health-center-2793-91850

Services: Medication abortions (the abortion pill) up to 11 weeks – $700. Financial assistance available. 

For Coeur d’Alene and Northern-Panhandle women

Planned Parenthood – Spokane, WA
123 E. Indiana Avenue,   Spokane, WA 99207
Phone: 866-904-7721
Website: plannedparenthood.org/health-center/washington/spokane/99207/spokane-health-center-2794-91850

Services: Medication abortions (the abortion pill) up to 11 weeks – $700.   Also: Surgical abortions 5 to16 weeks* — $700 and up, depending on length of pregnancy. Financial assistance available. 

AFTER 11 WEEKS, SURGICAL ABORTIONS ARE REQUIRED. 7 Clinics in nearby states can help you.

Closest to Boise and Western Idahoans

Up to 11 weeks:

Planned Parenthood – Ontario, OR
640 SW 4th Ave.  Ontario, OR 97914
Phone: 888-875-7820

Website: plannedparenthood.org/health-center/oregon/ontario/97914/ontario-health-center-3853-91400

Services: Surgical Abortions up to 11 weeks – $700;  Also Medication abortions (the abortion pill) up to 11 weeks – $700. Financial assistance available.

Up to 14 weeks:

Planned Parenthood – Bend, OR
2330 NE Division St #7,   Bend, OR  97703
Phone: 888-875-7820
Website: plannedparenthood.org/health-center/oregon/bend/97703/bend-health-center-2373-91400

Services: Surgical abortions up to 14 weeks* – $700 and up, depending on length of pregnancy. Financial assistance available. 

Up to 16 weeks:

Planned Parenthood – Kennewick, WA
7426 W. Bonnie Pl,   Kennewick, WA 99336
Phone: 866-904-7721
Website: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-center/washington/kennewick/99336/kennewick-health-center-2404-91850

Services: Surgical abortions up to 16 weeks* – $700 and up, depending on length of pregnancy. Financial assistance available. 

Up to 22 weeks:

Planned Parenthood – Yakima, WA
1117 Tieton Dr.   Yakima, WA 98902
Phone: 866-904-7721
Website: plannedparenthood.org/health-center/washington/yakima/98902/yakima-health-center-3311-91850/abortion

Services: Surgical abortions up to 22 weeks* – $700 and up, depending on length of pregnancy. Financial assistance available. [Clinic also offers the abortion pill up to 11 weeks – $700]

Closest to Eastern Idahoans — Helena, MT

Planned Parenthood
1500 Cannon, Helena, MT 59601
Phone: 406-443-7676
Website: plannedparenthood.org/health-center/montana/helena/59601/planned-parenthood-helena-2443-90790/abortion

Services: Surgical abortions up to 22 weeks* – $890 and up, depending on length of pregnancy. Financial assistance available. 

Closest to Panhandle and Northern Idahoans – Missoula & Helena, MT

Blue Mountain Clinic – Missoula, MT
610 North California St.   Missoula MT 59802
Phone: 406-721-1646
Website: bluemountainclinic.org

Services: Surgical abortions up to 21 weeks* – $800 and up, depending on length of pregnancy. Financial assistance available.

All Families Healthcare – Whitefish, MT
737 Spokane Ave, Whitefish, MT 59937
Phone: 406-730-8682
Website: allfamilieshealth.org

Services: Surgical abortions up to 12 weeks* – $600 and up, depending on length of pregnancy. Financial assistance available.

Making a decision to terminate your pregnancy can often be a difficult decision.  It is always an important decision.  If you’re considering an abortion but are unsure if this is the right decision for you, we hope the following information about abortions will be helpful.

If you’re considering an abortion, you’re not alone.  Millions of women have unplanned pregnancies every year and about 4 in 10 decide to have an abortion…almost one million each year in the U.S.  Some of the statistics for abortion are:

• 45% of all pregnancies are accidents…unintended.
• 25% of American women will have an abortion before 45.
• 59% of women having an abortion are mothers with one or more children.
• 62% of women having an abortion are religiously affiliated.
• 39% of women having an abortion are white; 28% are black; 25% are Hispanic.
• 88% of women having an abortion are 20 or older; 12% are teens.
• 40% of women facing an unplanned pregnancy decide to have an abortion.

Source:  Guttmacher Institute

There are many different reasons for having an abortion.   Everyone’s life situation is different and deciding to have a child (to either raise or put up for adoption) or terminating your pregnancy will matter differently for each person.  But here are the reasons others have chosen an abortion:

• Not ready for a(nother) child; would negatively affect my/my family’s life, 25%
• Can’t afford a(nother) baby/child, 23%
• Am finished having children, 19%
• Don’t want to be a single mother, 8%
• Health issues with mother or fetus, 7%
• Too young to raise a child, 7%
• Would interfere with education or career plans, 4%
• All others, 7%

Follow-up studies indicate that almost everyone who had an abortion was glad they did — and not having to raise a child they weren’t ready for (or putting that child up for adoption to be raised by someone else).

It’s Your Decision.  When making your decision, remember, only you know what’s best for you –- for your life situation, for your future, and for your current and future family.  If you’re unsure what’s right, we suggest thoughtfully evaluating all options, praying (if you’re religious), and listening to and then trusting your heart to know what’s best for you.  That quiet knowledge deep within you usually knows what’s best!

Take all the time you need to come to the right decision — but it’s helpful to know that the sooner a pregnancy can be terminated, the less likely there will be a need for any follow-up procedures, the cost will often be less, and you’ll have more options — as medical abortions (the abortion pill) can only be given in the first 8-10 weeks of pregnancy).

Things to consider.  Again, only you know what’s best for you, and only you should decide what to do with your pregnancy.  But here are some questions to help you with your decision.

• Am I ready to be a parent?  Would I be able to give that child what it would need to have a good life?
• Could I put a child I give birth to up for adoption?
• How would having a child now affect my future?
• What would it mean for others in my family if I had a child now?
• Would having a(nother) child affect my career goals?
• What are my personal and religious beliefs about abortion?
• Is anyone pressuring me to have or not have an abortion?
• Would having a baby change my life in a way I do or don’t want?
• Would having an abortion change my life in a way I do or don’t want?
• What kind of support would I need and get if I decided to get an abortion?
• What kind of support would I need and get if I decided to have a baby?
• Can my body handle pregnancy and childbirth?  Is it safe for my physical and mental health?

Getting support.  You’ll probably want to talk through your decision with people you know who are on your side and who only want the best for you….who only want to help you sort through your thoughts and feelings to arrive at the best, right decision.  They may be family, close friends, your doctor, and/or supportive clergy members.

If you don’t have anyone you feel comfortable discussing this with, here are two helpful places:

• A wonderful “All Options” pregnancy counseling organization where you can get unbiased, confidential, and caring help. Trained staff are available for you to share any concerns or questions you have and help guide you to the decision that’s best for you.  The organization, All-Options, has a toll free talkline at 888-493-0092, Mon-Fri 8:00 am to 11:00 pm, and Weekends 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
• The the clinic you want to go to — most have trained counselors there who want to help. If they don’t, they’ll refer you to others who can.

Getting religious support.  If you’re religious and you’ve been exposed to the often harsh, anti-abortion beliefs held by some religions and their followers, please read our very helpful Religious Statement for a pro-choice religious understanding of abortion.

Beware fake abortion clinics.  Lastly, avoid being tricked into going into a fake “Crisis Pregnancy Center.”  These are often located right near real abortion facilities, with misleading names. Posing as real abortion clinics, they’ll try to lure you in with free pregnancy tests and other gimmicks.

But they are actually run by religious, anti-abortion groups whose sole purpose is talking (or scaring!) you out of an abortion.  They give false and misleading facts about abortion, along with a variety of psychological techniques and guilt-tripping designed to make you afraid or ashamed to have an abortion.  Please read our Beware: Crisis Pregnancy Centers section.

We hope this has been helpful.  We wish you the best in making your decision!

If you’ve already made your decision to terminate your pregnancy, it is much better to have your abortion as soon as possible. If you are under 12 weeks**, you can have a medicinal (the abortion pill) abortion. If you’re past 12 weeks however, you’ll need a surgical abortion…they are cheaper and result in fewer possible complications the sooner in a pregnancy it is performed.

** in some clinics it’s 10 weeks.

What happens when you first contact an abortion provider will vary slightly by clinic. Most clinics are very supportive and will be as patient and helpful as possible, especially if this is new to you and/or if you’re young.

When you first call them, they’ll ask your name, date of birth, phone, and how far along in your pregnancy you think you are. They’ll ask whether you would like the medical (abortion pill) or surgical abortion. Some choose the surgical abortion because it is quicker, lets you get back to work sooner, usually results in less pain and bleeding, and doesn’t involve follow-up visits (the medical abortion sometimes requires a follow-up visit). Those who choose the pill usually do so because it doesn’t involve surgery and because it’s a “more private” procedure.  In Idaho, getting the pill on-line is the easiest, best, and cheapest alternative.  Most clinics will clearly and carefully answer questions describing the differences so you can make the decision that is right for you.  Please see one clinic’s summary of the two options.

Your initial phone call will likely also include telling them what insurance you have, and if you have any medical conditions you’re dealing with. They’ll advise you to read through their “what will happen” information on their website. If you’re traveling from ‘out-of-the-area,’ they’ll discuss options for overnight stays.

If you go to a clinic for your abortion, if possible, bring a friend/relative with you…you’ll feel much more comfortable having this support.

When you arrive for your appointment:

• You’ll need to fill out their paperwork (consent forms; medical history, etc.).
• Next you’ll be given an ultrasound to determine exactly how far along your pregnancy is.
• A 20-40 minute counseling session with an experienced, caring counselor will cover any questions or concerns you have as well as what your procedure will consist of.
• If you’ve decided to have a medical abortion (abortion pill), the doctor will explain how the pill works and give you instructions for the second pill you’ll take at home, 2 days later, as well as how to take care of yourself in the next few days. In some instances, they’ll schedule a follow-up visit that will include an ultrasound to confirm all has gone smoothly. It’s very important you keep this second appointment to avoid any complications.
• If you’re having a surgical abortion, your doctor will offer you anti-anxiety medication, perform your abortion (usually only 10 – 25 minutes) and provide follow-up instructions. A 1-2 hour recuperation period in the recovery room is normal … but patients can then leave and usually do not need any follow-up visits.

For a much more complete understanding of abortion procedures (both the abortion pill and surgical abortions), visit the National Abortion Federation webpage at prochoice.org/think-youre-pregnant/ Most clinics also have an “Everything you need to know” description of their abortion procedures on their webpage.

Always feel free to ask any questions and request any support you want or need.  Each clinic has a very dedicated and caring staff who strongly believe in reproductive rights and want to make you feel completely comfortable and supported as you go through this process.  You can be assured of complete confidentiality and privacy in all matters.

Yes, teens can legally order the abortion pill on-line, receive it, and take it to end your pregnancy!

Even though Idaho has some laws designed to make it difficult for a teen to get an abortion, if you’re 13 and over — and not more than 12 weeks pregnant [pregnant weeks start the first day of your last period] there are two safe, easy, cheap, and totally confidential options.

1. Go to: Aid Access and fill out their form.  If you need help, find a trusted adult that can help you.  Aid Access is a wonderful organization and wants to help you.  They can offer financial aid, down to $0, if needed.  See the Financial Assistance section for more information.
   The pill will arrive in a plain envelope (no abortion markings).  But if taking the abortion pill is something others shouldn’t know about, ask a trusted friend or adult if they will receive your abortion pill for you in the mail.  Then, where they ask where to mail the pill in the application, write in both your name and theirs, and your friend’s address.   Please email Aid Access if you need any help with anything!
   The pill will arrive in a plain envelope (no abortion markings). But if taking the abortion pill is something others shouldn’t know about, ask a trusted friend or adult if they will receive your abortion pill for you in the mail. Then, where they ask where to mail the pill in the application, write in both your name and theirs, and your friend’s address. Please contact Aid Access if you need any help with ordering, and please be sure to read the Idaho Abortion Laws section section if you’re having your abortion pill sent to someone else!
2. There’s a second organization that can help you.  If you have questions you’d like answered and/or need access to an abortion pill, email your request to:  idahoaccess@proton.me (a secure email). A trained abortion counselor will get right back to you.  All emails and conversations will remain totally confidential.

If you’re over 12 weeks pregnant and need to go out-of-state for a surgical abortion, call 800-230-7526 or email idahoaccess@proton.me (a secure email) for help. Caring counselors will help get you the abortion you need.

If you’re in trouble and need expert legal or any other abortion help, call either Planned Parenthood at 800-230-7526.  Or reprolegalhelpline.org  at 844-868-2812.   All communication is 100% private and confidential.  Two wonderful organizations — they’re there to help you 24/7!

Also, we’d like to recommend always having a few “ECs” (Emergency contraceptives – also called “Plan B” pills) on hand to prevent future unwanted pregnancies!  See the Emergency Contraceptive section for more information.

We appreciate how difficult this situation is for you.  We send you our best wishes for an easy, successful ending of your unwanted pregnancy!

For Help Getting the Abortion Pill:   Aid Access will help you pay for its $150 pill with sliding-scale discounts, even making it “free.”  In your on-line application, just ask for that.   A second option is asking Idaho Abortion Rights for their “free” abortion pill.  Just email: idahoaccess@proton.me

For Help Getting an Out-of-State Surgical Abortion:  Contact the Northwest Abortion Access Fund.  866-692-2310.  A really wonderful, caring organization, they will help cover your abortion, transportation, and hotels costs…even up to 100%, depending on your financial need.

They also offer emotional support and/or counseling.  If you’d like that, just let them know when you apply online, or when you speak to them on the phone.  Call 866-692-2310 between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm, Mon-Fri.

Note: they do not assist obtaining abortion pills.

The National Abortion Federation can also help. They are the only national abortion-funding organization. They can’t help with abortion pill costs, but can help cover surgical abortions at out-of-state clinics (including travel expenses). Call them at 800-772-9100 (Mon-Fri between 6:00 am and 5:00 pm; weekends between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm). Because of high-call-demand, you may have be on hold for a while….be patient. The phonecall will take about 15-60 minutes.

See prochoice.org/think-youre-pregnant/naf-hotline for further information.

Idaho has passed several laws to try to prevent you from having an abortion. Horrible laws. In some anti-abortion states, prosecutors have actually charged people ordering the pill, primarily to scare everyone else from their going forward with their abortion. Only one Idaho person has ever been charged (3 years ago) for taking the abortion pill, and she was found not guilty.

But because of Idaho’s current anti-abortion climate, although it is 100% legal to go out-of-state for the pill or a surgical abortion, we can’t say there is zero legal risk ordering the pill on-line. Most people order and take the pill, comfortably, but if you have any questions about that very small risk, please contact ReproLegalHelpline at 844 868-2812. Most Idahoans keep their abortions private – for personal and legal reasons.

Note: All AidAccess pills come from a licensed doctor and pharmacy outside of Idaho – from pro-choice states where abortion is legal.

If you are under 18: If you are 13 or older, you can always go out-of-state to get the pill or have a surgical abortion. You can also legally have AidAccess mail you the pill to your home address.

But Idaho has a law prohibiting adults (other than a parent) from helping to “provide” teens under 18 with an abortion. If you want your pill mailed to a different address, you should let them know there is some legal risk to them. Be sure to choose an adult friend you know and trust. Please have them contact ReproLegalHelpline at 844 868-2812 to learn more about that risk. And remember: keeping your abortion private is smart and safe!

Abortion is one of the safest medical procedures performed in America. In fact abortions have much fewer complications and side effects than giving birth. Medicinal abortions (the abortion pill) have virtually no risk of complications or side effects. Although any surgical procedure comes with some risk, abortion is actually one of the safest surgical procedures; only 0.05% of abortions ever have any complications. And remember, the earlier in pregnancy an abortion happens, the lower your chances of any complication occurring. Each person and each pregnancy is of course different. Your provider will be able to discuss any risk factors and possible complications with you at your first appointment.

Please know that although many anti-choice groups falsely claim negative side effects from having an abortion, this is not so. Having an abortion does not increase the likelihood of breast cancer, future infertility, depression, or any other negative reaction they try to scare women with.

Emergency Contraceptives (or EC’s) are pills you take after unprotected sex so you won’t get pregnant.  They’re also known as “Plan B” pills.  They are NOT abortion pills, as they won’t work if you’re already pregnant.  They are effective for 72 hours after unprotected sex.

You don’t need a prescription!  They are perfectly legal in Idaho — and are available at almost all pharmacies (drug stores and supermarket pharmacies).  The cost varies widely — from $7 to $50.  Always ask for “generic” brands and pharmacy discounts to get the cheapest price.

COSTCO pharmacies, if you live near one, have the lowest prices…about $7.00.  You don’t have to be a member!…just tell the checker at the door that you’re “going to the pharmacy.”  They will then let you in.

You can also get free EC’s at various locations throughout Idaho – a service of Idaho Abortion Rights.  See idahoabortionrights.com/birth-control-ec/ for locations.

Suggestion:  it’s a good idea to always have one or two of these on hand — the best way to guarantee never becoming pregnant.  You can easily do that — and get them for free — by simply emailing your request to Idaho Abortion Rights/Wellspring at: idahoabortionrights.com/planbbymail. And remember: it’s important to check the expiration date on the back as well.

 

 

If you have spiritual concerns about having an abortion, you are not alone.

Many, especially those raised in or exposed to conservative religions, may feel there is something spiritually “wrong” with ending a pregnancy, even though they believe this is the right, best, correct decision for them (and their current and/or future family).

If you have any spiritual/religious questions or concerns, you might benefit from a confidential conversation with a clergy member from a more mainstream or liberal religion. These pastors and religions support a woman’s right to choose; they believe that God loves you and wants you (and your family) to have the best life possible, that God gives everyone free will, and that if you have prayerfully decided terminating your pregnancy is best, He will fully support you in your decision.

Please see our Religious Statement for additional thoughts on going forward with an abortion and feeling completely religiously comfortable and spiritually blessed with your decision. It includes suggestions for finding local pastors you can talk with – as well as a national abortion-counseling hotline – both of which can give you free, confidential support and answers to any religious questions you have to help you in your abortion decision-making.

Rape is one of the worst and most difficult experiences anyone can have. Becoming pregnant as a result only compounds this horrible trauma.  Our deepest concerns and sympathies go to anyone in this situation.

Up to 72 hours after:  Immediately take the “Plan B” Emergency Contraceptive pill so you won’t get pregnant!  See the Emergency Contraceptive section for help. 

If you are past 72 hours:  You will need to take the regular abortion pill.  Go to the top of our website and order the pill through Aid Access or email idahoaccess@proton.me for another way to get the abortion pill. If you’re comfortable letting them know you were raped, they’ll give you extra support (emotionally and financially).

If you are more than 12 weeks pregnant, please email idahoaccess@proton.me or call 800-230-7526. Tell them your situation and ask for their help.

For financial aid paying for your abortion, see our Financial Assistance section.  Please let your all abortion provider and financial aid organization know your pregnancy is the result of rape. They’ll be extra supportive and helpful!

For all emotional, legal, and other help  you need for dealing with your rape crisis, please visit The Idaho Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence and contact the agency closest to you.

And, again, when contacting your abortion provider, let them also know that you’re a rape victim…every agency and clinic will give you that extra support and attention you deserve.

Crisis Pregnancy Centers  are fake abortion “clinics” found throughout Idaho.   These “Crisis Pregnancy Centers” (or CPCs) try to look like real abortion clinics, but aren’t.  They are actually run by religious, anti-choice groups whose sole purpose of talking you out of having your abortion. They are known to give false and misleading abortion information with little scientific basis. None are Real, Licensed Healthcare Providers!

They are often located near abortion clinics and have deceptive names like “Women’s Care Clinic” or “Pregnancy Resource Center.”  They offer “Free Pregnancy Testing” as a lure and, once you’re inside, push anti-abortion information while you’re waiting for their “longer-than-needed” test results.  They use guilt, shaming, prayers-for-you, and many other tricks to convince you not to have an abortion.  We’ve even heard reports of some preventing women from leaving, not letting them go until they’ve finished praying for them!

Don’t even go in for their “free pregnancy test!”

Here is a list, by city, of Idaho’s fake “Crisis Pregnancy Centers.”

For more information, visit the American Medical Association’s concern:  journalofethics.ama-assn.org/article/why-crisis-pregnancy-centers-are-legal-unethical/2018-03

Clinic Protesters line the streets by abortion clinics and try to prevent clients from entering.  They’ll try to get you to stop your car (with vests that makes them look like clinic escorts), and tell you to go to their nearby pregnancy crisis center (with offers of “free pregnancy tests” or something else).  Some may even try to block your car.

If you’re walking from your car, they’ll plead with you and insult you with words like “baby-killer.”  They’ll tell you God (or Jesus) is against abortion (see our Religious Statement) and try to ‘pray’ for you.  All of this can be very upsetting…to anyone!  So instead, to make your arrival as hassle-free as possible:

1) Don’t stop your car.  Don’t roll down your window.

2) Look for – and only talk with — the clinic’s official escorts. Each clinic will tell you how to identify them.

3) If you’re coming with a friend, have them drop you off at the clinic while they park the car (so you can go in directly).  If you’re coming alone, when walking (from a street parking place), don’t talk with any protesters or engage with them.  Just keep walking.  Most clinics will try to help you with an official clinic escort who’ll meet you at your car.

4) Always remember, you’re doing what you know is best! – for you, for your future, for your family and your future family.  Try to not let these people get under your skin.

Fortunately, only a few are overly aggressive and will really insult and bother you.  If so, please tell one of the clinic’s official escorts, so they can notify the police.

Like most women, you may experience a wide range of emotions before and during – but also after your abortion:  happiness, sadness, worry, relief, guilt, freedom…sometimes several at once.  There is no “right” way to feel – everyone is different.  Always remember — whatever you feel is totally right for you and your situation…and that it’s natural for those feelings to shift and change over time.

Although most are grateful for – and feel positive about – their abortions, it’s not uncommon for some women to find themselves wondering afterwards (sometimes years later even) — “Did I make the right decision?”  Some may even come to regret having an abortion, which is both unfortunate and unhelpful.

Why does this happen?  Post-abortion “second thoughts” might be triggered by simple things like:  just seeing babies or children…or reaching the calendar day when your fetus would have been born….or maybe just hearing those unhelpful “killing your baby” messages some anti-abortion activists proclaim.  Many different things.

What can you do if you find your mind starting to question or doubt your abortion decision?

First of all, realize that second-guessing your decision is always very normal.  It’s very rare that we ever feel 100% sure of our decisions (especially important decisions)…there’s always some part of our minds that thinks the opposite.  So afterwards, it’s normal to wonder about our decisions and play the “What if…” or “But what about….” game.  Did I buy the right car, did I take the right job, should I have moved, should I have said that…etc.

So…if any doubts about your abortion should ever come to you, always remember:  your decision to have an abortion came from the wisest and most caring part of you – decided only after you’d very thoughtfully looked at your life, your world, and your future.  And after thinking through all the options and how life would probably turn out, for both you and a possible future child, you thoughtfully decided that ending that pregnancy was the necessary, best, right thing to do.  Don’t ever let the important reasons you decided on an abortion get forgotten!

So, by all means, trust that decision – and always love yourself.  Because it came from that deepest, wisest, and most caring part of yourself – the part that wanted the best life possible for both you and any child you’d bring into the world!

Some women have been helped by also thinking of the many positives they gained by not having that child – the greater freedom they have, and the extra time and money* they have for other things.

* [ It costs $275,000, on average, to raise a child up to high school graduation.]

Here are some other helpful ideas you can do for yourself, if you ever find yourself questioning your abortion decision:

Talk:  Find someone you can openly discuss all your feelings with (include the uncomfortable ones) and ask them to listen to you.  Make sure it’s someone who loves and supports you; tell them all you’d like them to do is listen. 

Write:  Putting your thoughts and feelings into black-and-white (start a journal maybe) is very helpful and powerful.  Be sure to make a list of all the reasons you’re glad you had your abortion.

Nurture Yourself:  Exercise; spend time in nature; listen to music that makes you feel good; spend time in places that give you peace and pleasure; start simple, easy-to-succeed projects you enjoy; get away from things – be alone; do some art or other creative project; get extra rest; start a garden/buy a house plant; give yourself special treats you love; make sure you do lots of things that are fun!

Connect with Others:  Visit  shoutyourabortion.com to see other women’s experiences and their gratitude for being able to have an abortion.  If you know of other women who’ve had an abortion, connect with them to support each other.

Help others:  Volunteer with an organization you support; “be there” for others in a more deliberate, meaningful way; adopt a pet (and enjoy its companionship).

No matter what you do – be sure to do something!…taking positive action to support yourself and your abortion decision will always make things much better!  Never let negative feelings linger around….

• 45% of all pregnancies are unintended….accidents.
• 25% of American women will have an abortion before 45.
• 59% of women having an abortion are mothers with one or more children.
• 862,000 abortions were performed in the U.S. in 2017.
• 62% of women having an abortion are religiously affiliated.
• 39% of women having an abortion are white; 28% are black; 25% are Hispanic.
• 88% of women having an abortion are 20 or older; 12% are teens.
• Abortion is one of the safest surgical procedures; only 0.05% of women ever experience any complication.

Reasons women have abortions: Not ready for a(nother) child, 25%; Can’t afford a baby, 23%; Am finished having children, 19%; Don’t want to be a single mother, 8%; Health issues with mother or fetus, 7%; Too young to raise a child, 7%; Would interfere with education or career plans, 4%; All other, 7%.

Source: Guttmacher Institute