I had an abortion just after turning 20.
After finding out I was pregnant via a home pregnancy test, my boyfriend and I decided to go to our local GP. Before going to the GP and immediately after finding out I was pregnant I decided I wanted to have an abortion. I knew abortion was, and still is, a crime in Queensland. I also knew that an abortion may be legal where the woman's mental or physical health is in danger. Armed with this information I went to my GP and after my pregnancy was confirmed, said that I wanted a termination. My GP told me that often male partners pressure women into having abortions and that perhaps my boyfriend should leave the room. I reinforced that this was my decision and it was safe for him to be there. My doctor reiterated the point about coercion and told me that counselling was available should I require it before having my procedure. My doctor then gave me the names of some clinics which may perform abortions. He also (incorrectly) informed me that abortion is only available up until 9 weeks gestation in Queensland. I asked what an abortion involves and he said that he did not know. Later I underwent my own research into the different types of procedures and found out there was an option, for terminations in the first trimester, of a medical termination, which involved taking a pill which induces miscarriage. I decided this option was less invasive even though some had commented that it was more painful than a surgical termination. I found it particularly hard to find reliable information around the different types of procedures. A lot of sites while posing to be independent and reliable, actually gave medically incorrect information. The only useful, accurate source I found was Children by Choice. I then tried to book an appointment at numerous clinics which all had waiting lists of at least 2-3 weeks. I had been informed that I was probably around 6 weeks gestation, so I was concerned that if I had to wait a few weeks, I may not be able to access a termination based on what my GP had told me. I booked an appointment with the first clinic which was able to offer a space in the next week. I went with my boyfriend. I spoke with a nurse before my procedure where she made sure I was freely consenting to the procedure. I was then moved into a room where my boyfriend joined me. I had an ultrasound done and confirmed that I was 7 weeks pregnant. The doctor confirmed that I wanted to continue with the procedure and she instructed me how to take the medication. She also informed me about the telephone service which I could call at any time should I have any medical concerns. My abortion cost me $575. I went home and took the medication. I was comfortable and in familiar surroundings. It was painful, but that was temporary. The only emotion I felt was immense relief. I was so thankful that I lived in a country where I could access health services, and that doctors were brave enough to continue offering these services, despite the law. I have never regretted my decision. Not once. I think about it a lot, but never with sadness or regret, only how different my life now would be if I was unable to exercise this choice. Despite my feelings about my decision, I am still very hesitant to talk about it and I have not told my family because of the fear about their reaction, a fear of being shamed, judged and seen differently.
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November 2017
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