An unexpected pregnancy often affects more than one person, which means there may be many people with opinions. This includes your partner, parents, friends, and even your boss. It is okay for you to hear what the wise people in your life have to say, but no one should pressure you into making a pregnancy decision.
Legally, the decision is yours. And it matters.
At Blue Ridge Women’s Center, we provide free pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and confidential options consultations so you can get the facts about your pregnancy with zero pressure.
Here are three signs you’re being pressured into an abortion decision:
1. You Feel Like You Have to Decide Immediately
If someone is pressuring you to act quickly, they may not understand how important it is to have all the facts.
While there are medical timelines for abortion, you have time and space to think about what you want for your pregnancy. We encourage you to find the support you need in a safe, neutral space, like Blue Ridge Women’s Center.
If you feel unsafe, threatened, intimidated, or if someone is threatening or physically trying to coerce your pregnancy decision, confidential help is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) or by texting START to 88788.
2. You’re Afraid to Disappoint Someone
You may be worried about how your partner, parents, or others will react if you don’t choose abortion. There’s no easy answer, but no one else will be impacted by this choice the way you will be. If fear of someone’s response is the biggest reason for your decision, it’s worth asking whether the choice you’re making is fully yours.
3. Someone Is Dismissing Your Questions
Questions aren’t a sign that you’re confused. They’re a sign that you’re taking the decision seriously. You have a right to informed consent and to understand the risks and alternatives to every decision you make. You deserve the opportunity to explore all of your options and have your questions answered before making a permanent decision.
Schedule a Confidential Appointment
Sometimes, talking to someone outside the situation can help.
We are here to help you explore your options without pressure and to provide services that will equip you with medical facts about your pregnancy and your eligibility for certain procedures.