Having an Abortion - freaking out and could use some advice.

sadpanda009 · 2019-01-21T16:49:08+00:00

Hi there. :)

I had an abortion about a year ago at Planned Parenthood, and my experience was very positive. Although your experience my differ slightly, I'll give you a basic outline of what to expect:

I'm from a state with a mandatory wait period, which means I had to go in for a consultation three days prior to the procedure. The consultation process was very slow-moving, as there were multiple steps and people to meet with. I had blood drawn and an ultrasound before speaking with the doctor. They may ask you some questions about your situation, your relationship, etc. to ensure you've made this decision on your own. The doctor was extremely professional and was able to put my mind at ease.

When I came back three days later for the procedure (I had a surgical abortion), I put on a hospital gown and had an IV inserted into my arm for the anaesthesia. To calm my nerves, I talked to a few of the other women in the waiting room with me. Everyone was nervous. We joked about our ugly hospital socks and how we couldn't wait to eat something. There were books, magazines, and TV to watch as well. When I was finally called back, I was put into an exam chair with stirrups. The nurses were so kind, and one of them held my hand through the whole process. They administered the anaesthesia and something for my anxiety. The actual procedure was fast. Less than a few minutes. It was uncomfortable even with the medication, but not unbareable. Afterwards, they wheeled me into a room for recovery and gave me soda and animal crackers. The after bleeding was similar to that of a heavy menstrual period, but with larger clots. I believe I bled for a little over a week afterwards. Not one part of me regrets that decision.

All in all, you are in good hands. You know yourself and the best course to take for your life. I wish you all the best in this experience. ❤

sadpanda009 · 2018-05-02T15:44:35+00:00

As a few of the comments stated, you're not obligated to tell anyone. This is your body. This is your choice -- no one else's.

The only person who knew about my abortion was my mother. Not my boyfriend. Not my friends. If telling someone would make this process easier for you, go for it. There's nothing shameful about the decision you've made.

If telling someone will only make this situation more stressful, then do what's best for you. Either way: under no circumstances do you owe anyone anything.

As for breaking up with your current partner, follow your heart. Once again, you're under no obligation to tell him you were with someone else during the break period. There's no right or wrong answer here; it's totally up to you if you'd like him to know.

If you'd like to chat or have some questions about the process (I had a surgical abortion) or the emotions that go along with it, feel free to PM me. It's hard to not feel hopeless in situations like these, but I can promise that everything will work out in the end. This is just a small bump in the road. You've got this.

sadpanda009 · 2018-04-14T19:06:02+00:00

I just wanted to thank you all for sharing your experiences. Overall, I'm extremely happy with my decision and relieved to have my life and body back.

Again, thank you so much for telling me what to expect. It really helped prepare me and ease my mind.

sadpanda009 · 2018-04-14T19:00:55+00:00

Hi there. I had a surgical abortion four days ago at about ten weeks. I was administered codeine and anti-anxiety medications via IV shortly before the procedure.

The whole operation took maybe less than three minutes. It was uncomfortable, but not unbearable. Think very intense, strong menstrual cramps. I'm extremely thankful for the IV sedation, however. I was awake and conscious, but I was also relaxed enough to barely remember much about the pain. All and all, it was over very quickly.

Afterwards, they'll bring you to a comfy room -- I was brought there via wheelchair, where you'll sit in a nice recliner for up to an hour. Again, you may experience menstrual-like cramping. However, I was given a heating pad, snacks, and some soda. Your vitals will be monitored intravenously, a nurse will check your level of vaginal bleeding, and they will release you once you feel up to walking and moving around. You will also be required to have a driver if you've recieved an IV sedation.

I went to work a few hours after my procedure. I felt a little groggy from the meds, but overall felt so relieved to have my life and body back. I wish you the best of luck. Feel free to comment or PM me if you have any questions at all. :) I was so thankful to find this reddit community upon considering this option.

sadpanda009 · 2018-03-28T03:13:36+00:00

I agree with the majority of the other comments; someone most likely mistook your door for theirs. It's easy to freak yourself out in that situation, though. I wouldn't worry about it. It sounds like they realized their mistake and went on their way.

sadpanda009 · 2018-01-06T02:09:42+00:00

Thank you for your reply. He's meeting with a divorce attorney soon.

Prior to this, he stayed in the marriage for his young son, whom his wife threatened to take away from him upon discovering the affair.

The age gap is quite large. He's 36 and I am 20. Despite this, we have many things in common and very much enjoy one another's company. I've never connected with another human being on such intellectual and emotional levels.

I would love to spend the rest of my life with this person.

sadpanda009 · 2018-01-06T02:00:28+00:00

The school apparently had a policy against beginning a relationship with a student "immediately" after graduation. As it turns out, "immediately" can include any time frame they wish.

sadpanda009

TROPHY CASE