i was 17 when i got pregnant from an abusive boyfriend. i was on birth control but terrible at taking it regularly. the doctor came in after my exam and said, you’re pregnant. what are you going to do about it?

i had zero doubt. i went home and told my mom i was pregnant and going to get an abortion. i had to have the procedure done twice, for reasons i can’t completely recall. it was a big secret. my mom said she wouldn’t even tell my step-dad, if i didn’t want her to. the abortion was paid for through insurance. i have kept it a big secret for many years. i have felt a lot of shame in unveiling my decision to people. i wish i didn’t feel so ashamed. i know i made the right decision. i am now 37 and haven’t gotten pregnant since. i have only recently told my dad (very religious) that i had an abortion at 17. he gave me no response.