The Abortion Decision

ABOUT THIS SECTION

When a woman becomes pregnant, she is posed with a question. She must decide whether or not she is ready to bring a new life into this world. It is one of the most monumental moments in a woman's life and a decision that brings together her past, her present situation and her future dreams.

For many women, the answer is crystal clear: No, it is not time. Or, yes, they are ready to bear a child and become a mother. For others, the answer is far less certain. There are many questions that must be answered, many emotions that must be explored.

The same woman who has an abortion is the same woman who has a child...just at a different time in her life.

We encourage women to involve someone - a relative, partner, friend, religious advisor, her physician or someone she trusts in her abortion experience. This section of our website covers a variety of decision-making issues and offers help to those who care about the woman making this decision.

WE BELIEVE

The best decision about a pregnancy is one that connects your head and your heart, one that you can live with both today and tomorrow. We believe that difficult choices are made by good women like yourself throughout life and it is wise to look for support, inside yourself and from others when possible. So here, we treat your mind, body and spirit. Whatever your decision, we believe you deserve peace.

WE PROMISE

To listen. To support you in hearing your true voice. To keep our promise, we offer free counseling and encourage you to take the time to ask all your questions and bring any fears into the light where we can talk about them.

PAGE CONTENTS

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Choosing a Quality Abortion Care Provider
Once the decision to have an abortion is made, women must also choose a competent abortion care provider. You deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. Many providers do not offer emotional support, are not equipped with the latest equipment or may not be able to handle all of your needs. This is an informative guide to finding the abortion provider you can trust with your care.

Choose your provider as if your future depends on it, because it does.

Making the Choice
If you are beginning to think about abortion or are unresolved about your decision, read about Northland help and other resources for you as go through this thoughtful process.

Religious and Spiritual Concerns
Many patients seek the comfort of knowing that within their religion there is support for this personal decision. There are many denominational organizations devoted to helping women with spiritual and religious concerns through their pregnancy and abortion decision.

Especially for Men
A woman's partner is also impacted by the pregnancy and the abortion decision making process. Many men experience the same emotional tug of war...they feel that they want to have a child emotionally (in their heart), but their head tells them this is not the right time to become a father. They also want to know how to support their loved one. This section offers help.

Especially for Parents
Emotional support from parents is crucial during a difficult time. Yet, many parents have a hard time coping with the situation, or are unsure how to support their daughter during her pregnancy decision and, if chosen, her abortion. This section will provide helpful information for parents.

Especially for Friends
Most women tell us it helps to have someone to talk to or confide in about feelings. Your support is important and valued. A woman's choice to end a pregnancy may be difficult for her, and can often be difficult for her friends and loved ones as well. This section will help you support your friend through her abortion experience.

Portions of this page adapted from: "Pregnant? Need Help? Pregnancy Options Workbook," developed by Margaret Johnston, Director, Southern Tier Women's Services. Free copies are available here on our website in Resources or at each Northland Center.

Here at Northland,
we make the world a better place for women!

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Last page update: 9/07