We asked Caitlyn about her experience with abortion…
Q: What made you decide to get an abortion?
Cait: I was a sophomore in college and in a very unhealthy relationship. My parents did not like or approve of my boyfriend. We had been very off and on for 4 years. When I found out I was pregnant, we were both scared of facing my family and the whole situation. We never really discussed what we would do; he decided that we would have an abortion and I went along with that, due to fear of my parents, what people would think, and wanting to finish college. I had no information or understanding about abortion at that time.
Q: Did you have any side effects after the abortion?
Cait: Fortunately for me, I had no physical side effects. However, I suffered from emotional and spiritual side effects for years. I felt very unworthy as a person and carried the guilt and shame of my choice with me. I didn’t feel worthy of God’s love. Even though I knew he loved me, I didn’t think he liked me. I tried to do things in church, subconsciously, to earn his approval, but it didn’t work. It wasn’t until I went through the Forgiven and Set Free class that I understood God’s grace and forgiveness and love for me. That I had always been forgiven and righteous in his sight because of Jesus. I just needed to receive that and walk it out. That changed my whole life.
Q: What would you tell someone considering an abortion?
Cait: First, I would tell them to not make a rash decision, but to gather as much information as they can about their pregnancy, their dating, and abortion procedures. I would then tell them to pray about the decision they are making and to reach out to people who can offer wise council, such as a Pregnancy Resource Center, or their church if they attend one. I would also recommend that they look at all their options and make sure they don’t make a decision based on fear or because they feel pressured. Abortion is a decision that can’t be undone and it is something you carry with you the rest of your life.
If you would like to discuss a past abortion, please call 704-983-2100. You can receive your free abortion recovery phone consultation.
If you are contemplating abortion, check out our services page to explore the free services the PRC provides.
*Name changed for privacy.