Standing Your Ground: Handling Pressure to Have an Abortion

Finding out you're pregnant when you weren't planning to be can be overwhelming. While grappling with your own feelings, you may also face external pressures, possibly even from friends or family, pushing you toward making a certain choice, such as having an abortion. But it's crucial to remember that the decision is yours alone to make. At A Place for Women in Waipio, we offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can gather information and make the decision that's right for you.

Understand the Source of the Pressure

Peer pressure can take many forms, from subtle suggestions to blatant coercion. Take some time to identify the source of this pressure. Is it coming from a partner, a family member, or a friend? Knowing where it's coming from can help you address the situation more effectively and may offer insights into the motives behind the pressure you're feeling.

Make Your Voice Heard

When it feels like everyone around you has a strong opinion on what you should do, it's easy to lose sight of your own feelings. Make a point to assert your perspective. Share your thoughts and emotions openly with those involved, even if you haven't made a decision yet. Open communication can help in alleviating misunderstandings and conflicts that can arise out of stressful situations like unplanned pregnancies.

Seek Professional Guidance

If you're struggling to make your voice heard or you're confused about what to do, professional advice can be invaluable. At A Place for Women in Waipio, we offer a range of free services, including pregnancy options consultation, onsite pregnancy testing, and more. All of our medical services are provided by medical professionals under the supervision of our Medical Director, Dr. Vivien Wong, MD, ensuring you get accurate and evidence-based information to aid in your decision-making.

Look for a Supportive Network

While you may be experiencing pressure from certain individuals or groups to make a specific choice, it's crucial to remember that there are also people and organizations willing to offer unbiased, non-judgmental support. These allies in your community could be friends, family members, or professional counselors. They provide not just emotional support but also practical advice without trying to sway you one way or the other.

One such ally you can turn to is A Place for Women in Waipio. We exist to offer women a safe and supportive environment, particularly when dealing with potentially life-changing events like an unplanned pregnancy. Here, you can access a variety of free services, such as pregnancy options education, limited obstetric ultrasounds, and post-abortive recovery classes.

Our goal is to help you make an informed decision, whatever that may be. You don't need judgment during this critical time; you need compassion and truth. When you come to our center, you will find a space where you can rest your heart, collect your thoughts, and make the choice that is right for you.

Trust Yourself

At the end of the day, the choice is yours to make, and you're the one who will live with the consequences of that decision. Trust yourself and your instincts. Take your time, gather all the information you need, and make the choice that's best for you.

Conclusion

Coping with an unplanned pregnancy is challenging enough without the added stress of external pressures to make a particular choice. Remember, the decision should be yours alone. When in doubt, professional guidance and a supportive network can go a long way in helping you make an informed decision. If you're facing an unplanned pregnancy and are unsure of your options, the team at A Place for Women in Waipio is here to help. From our three locations in Ewa Beach, Waipio, and Honolulu, we provide a safe and judgment-free space to all women, regardless of their circumstances. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit our contact page.