Hi, My Name Is Brittany.

Hi. I'm Brittany and I had a medication abortion in Washington DC in 2012.

I found out I was pregnant when I was approximately 9-10 weeks. I missed my period and took 3 pregnancy tests, and my first thought was, "OMG I'm pregnant,” and how am I going to handle this situation? I decided to have a medication abortion because I was 22 years old, starting my career, with 3 roommates and a partner with whom I didn't see a future. He would eventually become abusive.

I received my abortion pills through a clinic.

From start to finish, the process was empowering, easy, and deeply personal. I took the pills at the clinic, and I felt nervous, but the doctors and staff were warm and welcoming. They cared about my well-being and future. What surprised me most was how seamless the process was, but also how many other couples were in the waiting room waiting for abortion care services.

Because I had access to medication abortion, I was able to live the life that I wanted on my own terms, which meant growing older, finding a healthy, loving partner with whom I married, and furthering my education and career. I graduated with my Masters in Public Health this year and am focusing my efforts on getting into medical school. All things that would have been jeopardized if I weren’t able to have a medical abortion. I felt peace of mind, freedom, and control over my life and body. I also felt I needed to get on birth control after this ordeal, which I did at the clinic, and I have been using contraceptives (the patch) ever since.

I'm sharing my story because I have had zero health issues since getting a medical abortion 14 years ago. Also, no one should feel shame about accessing healthcare services that suit their medical needs.

Medication abortion is healthcare and allows for women to take charge of their lives.