I found out I was pregnant 8 months into a new relationship. I knew we weren’t ready to start a family together and made up my mind the second I saw the positive test. He was understanding and supported my decision. I made an appointment with Planned Parenthood for the next week. Everyone in that office were angels. I brought a friend with me who had gone through the same thing. She wasn’t able to go into the exam room with me but she held space for me in the waiting room and reassured me the entire drive there and home.
I was only 6 weeks along and was able to have a medical abortion. I took the pills at home the next day. My boyfriend held me when I needed to be comforted and left me alone when I needed space. I think that’s when I realized that I had found the man I want to spend my life with. His understanding and concern for not only my physical health, but mental health was something I had never experienced with previous partners.
I kept a photo of the ultrasound. I’m not sure why. I think I just don’t want to forget about the life I once carried for a brief moment in time.
