When I found out I was pregnant I wasn’t that surprised. But when I told my partner he was so scared, yet I felt so relaxed, I knew I was going to get an abortion… so he supported me completely. I live in Aotearoa, New Zealand, where abortions are legal and fully covered by the government. All I had to do was show up to my appointments. I felt so lucky to be able to access all of this support.
The only person who really got to me throughout was my mother. I could tell she wanted me to keep it, and she would tell me over and over “whatever decision you make, it’ll all be okay”. But I’d already made my decision, she just needed to support me in that decision, but it was hard for her. Mum would see me so upset, and try to comfort me, but I wasn’t torn about my options, I was just so sick of being pregnant.
I have no regrets, the morning sickness alone was enough to make me want an abortion. Eight weeks of horrendous nausea, constipation, headaches, bloating, vomiting, you name it. I felt dysphoric when my boobs grew huge. I remember vomiting in the parking lot outside the hospital after the procedure, and crying with joy because I knew the symptoms were going to go away. My nurses and doctor were kind and respectful. During the abortion Come On Eileen by Dexys Midnight Runners was playing on the radio. Now my partner and I lovingly refer to my abortion as “Eileen”. My friends all celebrated with me. It was an achievement, I get to live my life how I want to. I’m so grateful for my abortion.
