If there is one thing I regret, it is the trap of choice that imprisons so many women and that is abortion. I had an abortion because I thought it was the best choice for me at that time. I was not even aware of the fact that there would be consequences that would effect my health.

I remember walking through the doors of the abortion clinic and there was coldness inside that building. An eerie and uncomfortable feeling I experienced from the beginning to end. I briefly visited with someone who worked there and she promised that I will feel nothing and feel relief.

Before, during and after the abortion procedure, I was never informed of the physical or emotional consequences abortion would have on my health.

Immediately after the abortion I was taken to a counselor and the woman asked why I chose abortion. I was taken aback at such a question and it was beyond me that she would even ask. She told me that it is now all over and I can rest. Nothing about me was going to find rest. My body, my mind, my heart, my soul would never know rest again.

Relief was the very last thing I felt and the emptiness set in. As time went on, I fell into depression and self-destructive behavior, trying to somehow compensate by believing that I deserve to be punished. Nothing would compensate for what I did. The more I tried, the worse I felt because I couldn’t bring my child back. Feeling nothing but despair, shame, guilt, unworthiness…I couldn’t take what I was feeling inside anymore and I decided that the only way to end the pain was by taking my own life.

The repercussions of a woman's decision may not be immediately visible. However, weeks, months, and even years later, women will realize the physical, emotional, and psychological realities that arise in the aftermath of an abortion.

What’s lost in the political discourse of pro-choice and pro-life is the emotional and psychological effect abortion has on women. If a party truly is in favor of protecting the health and well being of women, they would bring this health issue to the forefront of the debate.

Thank you.