I was 23, it was 2007 – the beginning of the financial crisis. I had been on depo provera birth control shot, but the side effects of this medication made me miserable. I decided to give my body a break. After that decision I was laid off from my job, I lost my health insurance. I could barely afford to buy groceries, I struggled to survive. I found out I was pregnant in March of 2007, and told I was 13 weeks. I didn’t know I was pregnant for that long because I hadn’t had periods for over a year, I thought it was normal. I was in a terrible relationship and very depressed. I knew I couldn’t have that baby, I couldn’t afford to take care of myself let alone a baby. Who would hire a pregnant girl in the midst of a financial crisis? Since I was so far along I had to go to the abortion clinic 2 days in a row. The first day my boyfriend came, but he belittled me the entire time because he was missing school. My parents had to pay for my abortion because my boyfriend refused to help, and I couldn’t find a job. He refused to come back the second day, or even check on me after. My mom had to come with me the next day. I knew with every fiber of my being I couldn’t have that baby. Abortion is not an easy decision. Sometimes it’s the necessary decision. I’m sad I was in that situation, I’m sad I had to make that decision, but I’m glad I did. I’m glad I had the right to decide what to do with my body.

(posted from USA)