Barbara

I grew up in a home with parents who were loving but dealing with mental illness and serious physical illness. I was isolated and a virgin until I was 32 years old. I moved from the Midwest to California and met a man who was excited about having sex with a virgin. And I was determined to give it a try. I thought if I didn’t try sex then, I’d get permanently depressed and die obese and alone. So, we had sex about twice. It was good physically, but we were strangers and had no relationship.

“I don't regret the decision. I do feel sad for my situation during that time.”

He talked me out of using the diaphragm that I had bought for myself. And I got pregnant. I knew immediately and got a blood test right away to confirm. It was like having little elves building inside me. I thought it over and discussed with him and decided to have an abortion, which was done at about 3 weeks.

I had friends escort me to the clinic, and was frightened and shocked that protesters were standing there. I felt very threatened by them—angry strangers with judgmental signs. The procedure was tough to go through, which I didn’t know it would be. But I was relieved when it was over.

I was 32 and alone. It was a good decision for me but very tough. I am now 56 years old. I don’t regret the decision. I do feel sad for my situation during that time—a tough time and tough choices. I don’t think the state should interfere in the first trimester and should primarily respect the women and her doctor’s choices after that.