Submitted by: Jay

Today I had a surgical abortion under twilight sedation at 7w 2d. I have terrible anxiety and scored the internet for days leading up to my procedure trying to find a story that would ease my mind, so I hope this can be that story for someone else.

I am 24 and the mother of a wonderful 2 year old girl. When I found out I was pregnant for the second time, I knew I wasn’t ready for the added responsibility, especially since I had just re-enrolled in college and taken on a new full-time job promotion.

I made my appointment the next day at my local clinic. In TN, you are required to wait at least 48 hours between your “counseling” visit and the actual procedure, so this gave me tons of time to worry, cry, have multiple panic attacks, etc. I was so afraid of being awake during the procedure, I almost didn’t go to my appointment.

When I arrived this morning the staff were SO incredibly supportive despite my my anxiety (I was literally shaking the exam table due to a panic attack). After the doctor checked the position of my cervix, I was taken into the procedure room. I was given two IV drugs, one for nerves and one narcotic for pain. I was told to take three deep breaths as the medication was being administered, and the next thing I remember was being in the recovery room!

I cannot express to anyone how thankful I was for the option to have IV sedation. It was truly a lifesaver for me. While in the recovery room, the nurse brought me some candy and a bottle of water and brought my boyfriend back to sit with me for about 45 minutes while the sedation wore off. I was also very thankful for that because it made me more comfortable knowing he was there. About an hour after the procedure was over, my cramps became more severe so I went home and took a very long nap. After waking up, it just feels like a normal period.

I promise you will get through this!