When you are dealing with something as serious as an unplanned pregnancy, the last thing you need is pressure to have an abortion. Your partner, parents, or friends may mean well when they give you advice, but it’s essential to know when opinions become manipulation.
Learn to recognize the signs of manipulation and pressure because no one but you can make this important decision.
Sign #1: There’s No Time to Waste
One way to manipulate you is to insist that you make a quick decision. They tell you there is no time to wait and will contact the abortion clinic for you. They may even want to drive you to the clinic right away. Without time to think, you move forward with their choice.
Sign #2: Insist You Don’t Need to Contact Your Doctor
Experts recommend that you speak with your healthcare provider before pursuing an abortion. You should review your health history, current medications, and learn more about your pregnancy.
For instance, the FDA approves the use of the abortion pill drugs through 10 weeks of pregnancy only. Do you know exactly how far along you are in your pregnancy? If not, you should have an ultrasound.
Once again, if you are not allowed to take the time to speak with your healthcare provider, you are being pressured to make a quick decision.
Sign #3: You Get Blamed
Although it takes two to become pregnant, your accuser blames you for letting it happen. They talk about how your pregnancy will affect them if you don’t choose to get an abortion. In their minds, your decision about the pregnancy should be based on their needs, not yours.
They say you should feel incredibly guilty for not considering their feelings.
Sign #4: They Threaten You Emotionally
Threats aren’t always physical. Manipulation includes isolating you from others who encourage you to consider all options. Your partner might stop you from communicating with loved ones until you make the “right choice” or threaten to break up with you.
Your parents may threaten to kick you out of the house or withhold money. Friends might avoid you. The person pressuring you may try to dismiss your opinions or make you feel as if you are ignorant.
You Need to Be Safe
According to the March of Dimes, symptoms of abuse worsen during pregnancy. What you need to know is that no one can legally force you to make one pregnancy decision over another.
You deserve to be respected and safe. If you feel physically or emotionally pressured to choose abortion, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-SAFE (7233). You can also read the Warning Signs of Abuse on their website.
Contact Relate Care Clinic For the Help You Need
The team at Relate Care Clinic is ready to support you. Here, you have the freedom to make your own choice about your pregnancy. Although we do not perform or refer for abortion, our caring team offers free and confidential medical services to assist you.
Together, we can discuss your situation and look at all your options. Come and talk with us. We will support you no matter what you choose.
You can make an appointment online or by calling (701) 746-8866. We’re here for you.
