You can do this

I’m 23 years old, I live in Texas, and I had my abortion at 15 weeks. I knew when I found out I was pregnant that I did not want, nor am I fit to be a mother right now.

I am thankful for planned parenthood for supporting me throughout my whole reproductive journey since I was 17. The process and procedure was not bad at all. All staff were very helpful and supportive. During the 10 minute procedure I talked to one nurse the whole time about my dreams and goals. After it was all done and I was in a 15 minute recovery, I felt such relief. I could get into personal details about why I chose to end my pregnancy, besides the fact that I do not want a child right now, but it honestly doesn’t matter. Everyone’s story is different and valid.

You just have to go with what you want and know that everything will fall into place. Do not worry about what others might think or say, that was my biggest challenge, but you have to remember that this is your life.

The best advice I want to give anyone who is reading this is to go with your gut. If someone feels like they just do not want a child right now, they have every right to that decision. And it is okay. Anyone who has an abortion is not selfish but in fact selfless. Abortion is safe and legal; there are so many others who have gone through this, you do not have to face this alone. You can do this.