How do I want to be on the day of the abortion? You have a CHOICE about how this is for you!!! Would you like to be: (circle all that apply)

• really angry all day
• helpful to others
• honest
• a victim
• proud that I could decide for myself
• whiny unwilling to share my feelings
• courageous
• anxious
• demanding
• patient impatient
• passive
• curious
• real
• good to myself
• friendly
• ashamed
• Other: ___________________

The night before: Here are some possibilities for what you can do to take care of yourself the night before:

Have a good meal and go to bed early

• Take a bubble bath
• Pray
• Hang out with friends
• Go out
• Read something soothing
• Listen to my favorite music
• Have someone I love be with me
• Say goodbye to the spirit of the child

What I would like to do the night before my abortion:

A Checklist: Some things to make it easier:

These are some ways that might make the day go easier. Which ones would be helpful for you? (check)

1.        __ Make sure to leave plenty of time for getting there

2.        __ Get good directions

3.        __ Visit a few days before so I am comfortable with the place and people

4.        __ Have someone I trust who will go with me

5.        __ Take something to read/work on/play with while I am waiting

6.        __ Get realistic information about how long I will probably be there

7.        __ Have a good breakfast or lunch (if it doesn't interfere with clinic instructions) 

8.        __ Wear layers of comfortable clothing so I am OK whether it's hot or cold.  

9.        __ Shower or bathe before I go to help me feel fresh

10.     __ Find out if there might be protesters so I can prepare myself

11.     __ Make sure I have transportation to and from the clinic

12.     __ Make sure I am clear about the medical fees and I have my payment ready

13.     __ Write a list of my questions so I am sure they all get answered

14.     __ Buy a box of maxi-pads and some Ibuprofen for cramps.

15.     __ Other:

How to Relax

Whether you are having an abortion with local or general anesthesia, (awake or asleep) it is very helpful if you can relax. What are some ways you relax best that you can do in the clinic or doctor's office?

__ Take deep, slow breaths

__ Listen to music on the walkman

__ Think of a beautiful place you'd like to be

__ Talk with someone

__ Pray

__ Think of good memories

__ What else can you think of?

After your abortion:

What I'd like to do to take care of myself:

Who will you ask for support afterwards? Tell them how you would like to take care of yourself (above).

Important: If you are having strong feelings of regret or sadness that don't get better, get help!! Warning signs include: crying all the time, problems with sleeping or eating or being able to concentrate.