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condition related to her thyroid, not to the abortion. All of the women were happy and/or relieved immediately following their abortions. All of the women experienced a period of grieving. Each woman has expressed regret at her decision. When asked why they felt guilty, they had this to say:

Jane: I was so young and stupid, I had no right having a baby when I was so messed up. I wish I was more careful, or cared enough to be careful, but I was just selfish and I didn't care.

Samantha: Of coarse I feel some guilt. I had two kids, no job, no health insurance and we were living with my family because we couldn't afford a place of our own. Does that sound like the kind of position anyone would want to be in? Sure, there's adoption, but exactly how do I explain to my kids that I gave away their brother or sister because we couldn't take care of them? How long before they would wonder if we were going to give them away too? Babies are supposed to be a happy and joyous addition, so getting an abortion did leave me feeling guilty. But I also know I made the right choice for my family at that moment in time.

Anne: I didn't want an abortion at first. But I wasn't working either, my boyfriend was abusive and I was involved in a very unhealthy lifestyle. It was the best thing. I don't regret getting an abortion, I regret getting pregnant in the first place. Now that I have my daughter I'm really glad I made the decision I did. That kid would have had one screwed up life or might have been really sick, that's not fair to any child.

After speaking with Anne, Jane and Samantha my personal conclusion of the emotional side effects following an abortion are that there is going to be good and bad emotions accompanying an abortion. It is both logical and prudent, to speak to a counselor or trusted confidant following an abortion. Should you experience severe depression, suicidal thoughts or nightmares it is imperative to speak to a health care professional immediately. The women in this article made no mention of severe depression or suicidal thoughts, however to assume that such emotional side effects do not exist at all would be ignorant. Each woman is different and each will react differently to her own experiences.

I do not have an opinion regarding abortion. I do not endorse either Pro-Life or Pro-Choice organizations. For more information regarding abortion and other option for unplanned pregnancies, check out these websites:

http://www.prochoice. com/
http://www.prolife.com/
htt p://www.americanpregnancy.org/

*Names have been changed to protect the privacy of individuals mentioned in this article.

Learn more about this author, Sabrina Mcclanathan.
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