Single parenthood would make my working life harder and challenge my financial security. I also had some musculoskeletal physical challenges which I thought would also make parenting more challenging. In hindsight perhaps I should have had more faith in myself and my partner. But I also feared not doing a good parenting job or resenting the child.
I have not regretted the decision. I went on to sustain the relationship (35 years and continuing) and a career which has left me financially secure in retirement. Although it wasn’t legal at the time I was able to obtain the termination relatively easily in Brisbane, with the assistance of Children by Choice. After being a female in my teens and twenties in the Bjelke Peterson era it was a relief for it to happen relatively easily and not to have to travel interstate.
We had 1 incidence of unprotected sex and after much deliberation I decided to take Plan B which ended up not working.
Attending catholic school and having the nuns show us films that were abortion propaganda also reinforced the 'anti-abortion' view.
When I spoke to my GP, she was amazing, was completely non-judgemental, and offered a referral and support letter for access to an abortion, if I wanted one.
When I accidentally became pregnant in my mid-20s, I was, in theory, in a much better place both financially and emotionally.
Terms of reference
Your voice helps shape how Queensland Health and Children by Choice improve access to Termination of Pregnancy services across the state.
Queensland Wide Pregnancy Support Services
Free & Confidential
