When “Choice” Doesn’t Feel Like a Choice: Understanding Coercion in Pregnancy Decisions
As healthcare professionals, we often hear stories filled with unanswered questions, broken promises, and a deep sense that the decision was made under pressure rather than free will.
Many women describe their abortion experience with one phrase: “I felt like I had no choice.”
As healthcare professionals, we often hear stories filled with unanswered questions, broken promises, and a deep sense that the decision was made under pressure rather than free will.
Recognizing Signs of Pressure
Coercion can take many forms. It doesn’t always involve direct threats — sometimes it’s subtle, emotional, or situational. You may be experiencing coercion if you’ve heard or thought things like:
“I’m worried my boyfriend will leave me if I don’t have an abortion.”
“I’m afraid my family will kick me out if they find out I’m pregnant.”
“I was told I wouldn’t be a good mom.”
“I don’t know if I can keep my job if I’m pregnant.”
“Everyone says abortion is my only option.”
“It would be better for them if I didn’t have this baby.”
“No one is happy for me. They just tell me to ‘take care of it.’”
If any of these statements sound familiar, you may be facing pressure to choose abortion — even if no one intends to harm or threaten you directly. Coercion, by definition, means to compel someone to act against their will through force, threats, or undue influence.
Why Coercion Matters
Recent qualitative and quantitative studies identify that a significant proportion of women who have abortions report feeling pressured or coerced into the decision. For example, one study in the U.S. found that higher levels of external pressure were statistically associated with poorer mental-health outcomes.¹ ²
Studies also indicate that lack of social support and perceived pressure can increase the likelihood of experiencing negative emotional or psychological effects afterward.³
Your pregnancy decision should never be made out of fear, pressure, or obligation. Every woman deserves the opportunity to make an informed, supported, and confident choice about her future.
You Have Rights — and Options
It is against the law for anyone to force you to have an abortion. The decision is entirely yours. At Resource Health, our mission is to ensure you never face this journey alone.
We begin with a free pregnancy test and a confidential, one-on-one conversation with a compassionate healthcare professional. Our goal is simple: to listen to your story, understand your unique situation, and connect you with the resources and support you need — without judgment or pressure.
Our Commitment to You
At Resource Health, you’ll find:
Confidential services at no cost
Evidence-based information about all your options
Supportive staff who genuinely care about your wellbeing
A safe environment to ask questions and take the time you need
We are here to ensure that your decision is truly yours — informed, supported, and free from coercion.
If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy and feeling uncertain, reach out to us today. You can schedule a free appointment or chat with our staff live using the chat feature on the lower right-hand side of this page.