Dear safe2choose counselors,
I don’t have anyone I can talk to about this problem I’m having, and I hope that you can help me. I grew up in a very religious household, and the one thing my family has always drilled into me is that abortion is bad.
I used to believe so, too, because that was all I was ever taught. I just turned 19 and I’m living in Aguascalientes, Mexico. I have never been in a relationship before because deep down, I always believed I wasn’t good enough for anyone.
Then a few months ago, a man from one of my religion studies approached me. He showered me with attention and he made me feel seen for the first time in my life. I believed everything he said. One day, he got me alone and he asked me to have sex with him. I denied because I wasn’t ready. But he did it anyway.
I felt so ashamed about it and I never told anyone. Last month, my period was late and after taking a pregnancy test, I found out that I am pregnant. I don’t know who to tell and I am so scared. I am not ready to be a mother and I know my family would disown me if they found out. But I don’t know the first thing about abortion, and I don’t even know where to go. Could you please help me? Please, because I am terrified of what could happen.
I hope this letter reaches you. I will eagerly await your response.
Paula
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Dear Paula,
Thank you for reaching us, we understand that it can be difficult to find someone to talk to in stressful times like this. We are here to offer you support right now.
First, we want to tell you that we regret the situation you went through, nothing that happened was your fault. Sexual abuse is something that shouldn’t happen to anyone and we’re here in case you want to talk more about it. We also want to tell you that sexual abuse is punishable in Mexico and you can report it if you wish.
About abortion, we understand that it is a procedure that is surrounded by myths and controversies by some communities or people with religious beliefs. But we believe that all people have the autonomy to decide about their body and their life. Since you are the only one who would go through pregnancy or abortion, the decision is entirely yours depending on what you want for your story and life plan.
Whatever decision you make, it will be the right one for you and we will be here to accompany you through the process.
We would like to share with you that the state of Aguascalientes has recently legalized abortion in the state and you can access it legally, safely and free until 12 weeks of gestation. Also, is your right to have access to the procedures by the NOM-046; mexican norm that protects abortion necessary atention and care in situations of sexual violence, meaning access to legal and free abortion procedures for cases of sexual violence. You do not need to file a complaint to access this right, just a written petition.
Remember that you can contact us by email or live chat so that we can offer you the appropriate guidance for your case before, during and after the procedure.
You are not alone, we are here to support you in this process.
Sincerely,
safe2choose team