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Tunnel Vision in a Decision About Abortion

Abortion is often a consideration in an unexpected pregnancy decision. For some women it can seem like the only option they have, whether it feels best or not. When it seems like everything is pointing to one option, how do expand your view and see the bigger picture? What can you do if you’re having tunnel vision in a decision about abortion? How you find out everything you need to know to make an informed decision that’s right for you?

Find helpful and nonjudgmental support in your decision about abortion at Avenue Women’s Center. For almost 40 years, we’ve cared for women in their unexpected pregnancy decisions. Our free options consultations provide a safe space to address your unique concerns and questions. Learn more about your pregnancy options, including abortion, from experts who care about providing you with accurate and reliable information. Contact us for an appointment at one of our Chicagoland locations!

Tunnel Vision in a Decision About Abortion

In a tunnel, you’re surrounded by darkness. Even with periodic dim lights along the walls, it’s usually just one brighter light at the end of the tunnel to guide you. From deep inside, that light is just a glimmer far away. Fumbling through shadows can feel hopeless, lonely, frustrating, and challenging. You just want to get to the tunnel’s end and put this whole experience behind you, wrapped in the bright sunlight waiting outside.

You may feel similar as you decide whether abortion is your strongest option. You aren’t alone. While some women are certain abortion is best, others struggle with mixed feelings or thoughts. Circumstances around their pregnancy can be difficult, and their personal reasons for considering abortion may be significant. However, when you have tunnel vision in any decision, it can limit your ability to clearly think it through.

Seeing the Bigger Picture While Deciding About Abortion

Many factors go into a decision about abortion. You may have already looked into abortion and done your own research. What else do you need to know before you decide? Consider the following questions as a start to learning more about the option of abortion and figure out whether it’s the most fitting option for you.

How far along is your pregnancy, or the gestation age? Does this matter when it comes to your options? Yes, it does. The different abortion procedures available largely depend on how many weeks your pregnancy has progressed.

Have you had an ultrasound yet? Knowing more about your pregnancy can be helpful as you think about abortion. An ultrasound can reveal the gestation age of your pregnancy, as well as the viability. Viability is the likelihood that your pregnancy will continue on its own. Understanding your chances of miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy (developing outside the uterus) can impact a decision about abortion.

What are the risks involved? As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects involved with an abortion. What might be some that could impact you personally, given your health history? Have you spoken with your doctor or health care provider about abortion? Additionally, you may wonder how an abortion could affect you emotionally. Discussing your concerns with a trusted loved one, a supportive partner, a counselor, or a therapist can provide valuable insight as you think through the option of abortion.

As you look into these questions, what are some others that come to mind? Is there more information about your other pregnancy options that would be beneficial to understand? Would parenting become a consideration if you learned more about resources and financial assistance in your area? Would it be good to know more about the adoption plan options in your state, and what kind of legal assistance may be involved? How can you expand your tunnel vision and consider all the elements of your pregnancy decision? Take the time to find out more information and make an informed decision you can feel confident is best for you.

Avenue Women’s Center cares about supporting you in a decision about abortion. In addition to options consultations, we also provide free limited ultrasounds to qualifying clients. An ultrasound can be a helpful and insightful tool into your pregnancy options, including abortion. Learn more about your pregnancy and your options from our understanding, compassionate, and nonjudgmental expert staff. Call, text, chat, or email us to set up your free appointment and take the next steps in making an informed decision!

The information provided here is general in nature.  It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center.  If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention.  Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.