In the wake of an abortion experience, are you realizing that you made this decision for your partner instead of yourself?  Maybe he mentioned that he wanted an abortion, and you wanted him to have the outcome he desired.  Or, perhaps his approach was more threatening.  Maybe he said he’d leave you if you pursued any other pregnancy option.  It’s also possible that you had an abortion because you believed this would be in his best interest.  Perhaps your partner had been struggling with his mental or physical health at the time, and you felt that continuing the pregnancy would be too much for him.

The reasoning behind your abortion decision may have been selfless and carefully measured.  Ending the pregnancy may have seemed like the wisest, kindest, most practical approach at the time.  But what if you’re still regretting the way that you went about making this decision?  Perhaps you wish deep down that you’d chosen to parent.  Or, maybe it’s not so much the decision itself that you regret, but rather the thought process that brought you there.  Maybe you don’t know what to think or whether you made the right choice.  But you do know that this whole experience has left you feeling sad, frustrated, and uneasy.

If you’re in this difficult position, know that you’re not alone.  Many people discover too late that it’s vital to make a pregnancy decision first and foremost for themselves.  Countless individuals have come to know the pain of choosing a different path.  So many of us are driven by an instinct to satisfy the needs and desires of the people around us.  There’s a healthy time and place for this.  But, when it comes to a pregnancy decision, it’s critical to go with your gut.

Your pregnancy decision may be behind you.  But it’s never too late to reclaim your sense of autonomy and pursue peace of mind.  If you’re struggling emotionally days, months, or years after a difficult abortion experience, don’t stuff those feelings away.  Only by acknowledging them can you discover hope and healing.  This may be a painful process.  But actively seeking emotional restoration now will save you a lot of heartache in the long run.

Consider reaching out to Restore!  We’re a long-standing program that offers post-abortion emotional support at no cost.  When you reach out to us, we’ll connect you with a highly-trained leader or support group (your choice).  You’ll engage in a free book study with a trustworthy person (or persons) who care, providing opportunities to process your experiences in a safe and comfortable setting. 

Reach out to Restore today!  Our tried and true services are offered with compassion and complete confidentiality.

*If your partner tried to manipulate your pregnancy decision using threats or force, this is known as coercion.  Some coercion is abusive or covers up abuse.  If you believe that you are being abused and are concerned for your safety, call 911 immediately. To get connected with support, reach out to the