Do I Have to Tell My Partner I Want an Abortion?

You are not legally required to tell your partner that you want an abortion. However, honesty is important to maintaining a healthy relationship if you plan on staying with your partner.

Before choosing abortion, it’s critical to know all you can about this option to ensure you make an educated choice. This article explores the essentials you need to know before choosing abortion and why talking to your partner about your pregnancy decision could be beneficial.

What Do I Need to Know About Abortion?

Abortion is just one of your pregnancy options (your other two choices are parenting and making an adoption plan).

There are two main types of abortion: medical (also known as the “abortion pill”) and surgical. The type of abortion you receive depends on the gestational age of your pregnancy (the amount of time that’s passed since your last period). Medical abortion is only FDA-approved if your pregnancy is 10 weeks gestation or under, while surgical abortions can happen later in pregnancy.

Medical Abortion Risks

Medical abortion involves taking two powerful drugs at home, and incomplete abortion is one of the main risks. An incomplete abortion occurs when parts of the terminated pregnancy remain in the uterus. It can quickly lead to infection if not promptly treated.

Not every woman is eligible for abortion drugs, so it’s vital to meet with a healthcare provider first and receive an ultrasound to protect your health.

Surgical Abortion Risks

Surgical abortion is done in a clinical setting. It involves the dilation of your cervix so that medical instruments can enter your uterus and terminate/remove your pregnancy.

The main risks associated with surgical abortion include uterine perforation and scarring, which can lead to painful periods or future infertility.

Should I Tell My Partner About My Pregnancy Decision?

No matter your pregnancy choice, it is a big decision. Although the decision is yours alone, telling your partner might be beneficial—especially if you plan on staying together.

When you tell your partner what you’re thinking, you allow them to voice their feelings and maybe even open your eyes to see new possibilities. You might be surprised to learn that they will also support you in other choices.

While talking to your partner about what you’re thinking and inviting them into the decision process can strengthen your relationship, there are times when you shouldn’t tell your partner. For example, if you feel your safety is at risk, you might want to avoid telling them privately. Share the news publicly.

We’re Here for You

While only you can decide what’s best for your pregnancy, we’re here to support you along the way. We offer free resources and services to help you make an informed decision.