Getting an abortion is not a simple decision. There are so many factors that you need to consider before you go through with it. All the political noise and debate surrounding the ethics of the process can make it a lot worse for many people. If you decide that getting an abortion is the only option for you, then you’ll likely be scared or somewhat daunted by the procedure. However, there is no need to fret about the process, since there are many ways that you can reduce your stress.
Block out the political noise
Just forget about all the political and moral noise surrounding the issue. While there is no federal consensus of the legality of abortion, it can be legally justified in many circumstances. Having said this, because the procedure is regulated by state governments, as opposed to the Federal Government, the grounds for attending a pregnancy termination clinic vary between states.
Notably, New South Wales is the only state where abortion is still a criminal offence, however, it is legal if justified by a doctor on economic, social or medical grounds. Every other Australian state permits the process as legal, albeit the time frame varies between states. At the end of the day, if you have a valid, legal reason to visit pregnancy termination clinic then that is your choice. Forget about what critics and political commentators are saying. The current laws give you the freedom to decide.
Consider all your options
Visiting a pregnancy termination clinic may not necessarily be your best option. You may not be able to go through with an abortion because of moral reasons and that is fine. At the end of the day, it’s all subjective and up to you. If you do choose to have an abortion – don’t take the decision lightly. Consider all your options:
Financial obligations
Raising a child is an expensive endeavour – particularly in Sydney. A 2016 study found that rising a child from birth to 17 years of age was approximately $300 000. If you are not in a financial position to support and nurture a child into adolescence and you have no means of additional financial support (i.e. from the government or family), then visiting a pregnancy termination clinic could well be your best option.
Emotional obligations
Raising a child is difficult and requires constant commitment and love. If you don’t feel like you can do this, then an abortion is a consideration. You may suffer from mental illness or a serious medical condition, which could compromise your ability to offer the child emotional support throughout its life.
Making an appointment
When making an appointment with your pregnancy termination clinic, there are several factors you need to consider.
Suitable time
It can be an invasive and uncomfortable process, so make sure you’re picking a time that suits you. Cancel your work commitments and ensure that you give yourself plenty of time to recover afterwards.
Transportation
Transportation is also a very crucial consideration. Make sure that you pick a time that works well with public transport schedules. Alternatively, ask a family friend or a close person you trust if they would be willing to drive you to and from the pregnancy termination clinic. You cannot operate a car or machinery after the procedure so driving yourself is illegal.
Post-procedure
Doctors also advise to bring sanitary pads or an additional pair of underwear, just to wear home after the procedure.
At the end of the day, the decision is yours and yours alone. If you’re considering an abortion, make sure you get in touch with your local pregnancy termination clinic as soon as possible.
