Six and a half years ago I had an abortion. I was married and the mother of two beautiful daughters. I was using birth control pills correctly, but after having been on them for so many years, I forgot one simple fact: their effectiveness can be reduced by the use of certain antibiotics. Apparently, my general practitioner also forgot when he prescribed antibiotics for a case of strep throat without issuing me any warning.
My husband and I deliberated for days as to what to do. We were struggling financially, going through career changes, and simply did not want another child at that time. It was extra difficult because I had been using birth control. The decision to terminate the pregnancy was difficult and sad, but not one that we have ever regretted.
The procedure itself was neither scary nor particularly painful. I have since given birth to a son who was completely wanted. I see in him every day the wonder of a child who was planned for, anticipated, and whose arrival was cause for joy for the whole family. In contrast, I work for an organization that serves abused and neglected children and see too often what happens to children who are born to people who are not so well prepared.
It is of the utmost importance that the basic right to choose is not compromised for our children.
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