Someone asked us: Is getting an abortion scary?
Getting an abortion can feel scary, especially if it’s your first time or you don’t know what to expect. Many people feel anxious about the pain, the procedure itself, or the decision they’re making. However, knowing what will happen, having good pain management, and accessing supportive care makes the experience much less frightening. Most people who’ve had abortions say the anticipation and fear beforehand was worse than the actual experience.The fear often comes from uncertainty and misinformation. You might worry about how much it will hurt, whether it’s safe, or if you’ll regret it later. These fears are completely normal and valid. The reality is that abortion is one of the safest medical procedures with serious complications occurring in less than 1% of cases. Knowing exactly what to expect during medication abortion or surgical procedures reduces fear significantly because you’re prepared rather than surprised. What helps most people feel less scared is having support and accurate information. Talking to healthcare providers who answer your questions honestly, having someone you trust accompany you, and understanding what happens during the abortion process all reduce anxiety. Many clinics offer counseling before the procedure to address your concerns and help you feel more comfortable. If you’re feeling scared, that’s okay and it doesn’t mean you’re making the wrong choice.Remember that feeling scared doesn’t mean abortion is dangerous or that you shouldn’t go through with it. It means you’re facing something new and important. Healthcare providers understand this and are trained to support you emotionally as well as physically. If anxiety is overwhelming, ask about anti-anxiety medication or sedation options that can help you feel calmer during the procedure. Accessing support resources before and after can make the entire experience less frightening.
Need compassionate abortion care? Serenity Choice Health provides medication and surgical abortion services throughout Illinois with caring staff who understand your concerns. Schedule your confidential appointment today to ask questions, discuss your fears, and receive the supportive care you deserve.
Board-Certified Physician & Senior Medical Correspondent
Dr. James Carter is a board-certified physician and a lead clinician at Serenity Choice Health, where he specializes in reproductive health access and medication abortion protocols. With a career dedicated to providing safe, compassionate, and evidence-based care, Dr. Carter bridges the gap between complex clinical guidelines and patient-centered health communication. In his dual role as a Medical Writer and Researcher, Dr. Carter has become a prominent voice in the reproductive health space. He is a contributor on Quora and various health publications, where he provides clinical insights into the legal landscape of telehealth, Shield Law compliance, and modern medication abortion standards. His writing focuses on empowering patients with the data they need to make informed, private decisions about their health.
