Navigating an unexpected pregnancy can be challenging, and adding pressure to it can make it even harder. If someone is pressuring you into an abortion, know that you have the final say.
Before deciding, schedule an appointment at Pathways Clinic for initial early pregnancy services to confirm important health details and receive information on every option. All of our appointments are free of charge and completely confidential.
You deserve to make an informed, pressure-free decision about your pregnancy. Continue reading to learn some signs of being pressured into an abortion decision.
They are telling you what to do.
If someone is telling you to have an abortion, this is the most obvious form of pressure. They do not have a right to tell you what to do. You have the power to make your own decision about your pregnancy.
They are dismissing your input.
Maybe you try to tell your significant other or family member your concerns about abortion, but then they dismiss your feelings. They might be fully convinced abortion is the right choice, making it easy to brush off anything you say.
No one listens to you.
If you are sharing your feelings and concerns but they won’t listen, you may be getting pressured into an abortion. You deserve healthy relationships with those who listen and value your thoughts and perspective.
They are gaslighting you.
Gaslighting is a form of manipulation where the person pressuring you makes you question your sanity, foundational beliefs, or decision-making abilities. For instance, they could use your own words against you to convince you that abortion aligns with your goals and plans for your life.
You could begin to wonder if your feelings are valid or if it’s in your head. Gaslighting can be a subtle and emotionally abusive form of pressure.
They send you biased information and articles.
This person may send you constant texts and emails with information they are hoping will convince you to have an abortion. Remember that you don’t have to respond to any of these messages because trying to generate endless responses can wear you out.
You feel uncomfortable.
Maybe you can’t pinpoint exactly why you’re feeling pressured, but you’re uncomfortable. You may avoid the person who has made you feel this way, even if they haven’t done anything obvious. It could be their tone, facial expressions, body language, or even how they drop hints about abortion.
Make an Empowered Choice
Your pregnancy choice will become a part of your story. Resist the pressure and make sure you are confident in your decision.
Visit Pathways Clinic to talk in a confidential space about all your options and receive the services you need to confirm your pregnancy and move forward.