In Aya Contigo we are collecting stories and opinions of women in support of abortion. In this series of testimonies we will learn about the experiences of those who are in Venezuela and what are the experiences that have shaped their opinion on the right to decide.
Michelle Hernández, 29 years old.
When I found out I was pregnant I was already in favor of abortion. I have supported it for several years and the truth is that I thought about having an abortion when I found out. I was very afraid, because I was going to do it clandestinely, obviously. I had very little knowledge. Many stories from friends; failed cases, bad, good... I was going to take the risk, but first I had to find out how long I had been pregnant. When I went for an ultrasound, I found out that I was two months pregnant and it was twins. For me it was the fear that if I had an abortion, my life was going to end and that's why I decided to become a mother. In a way I also felt guilty for not having taken care of myself. So I chose to have my daughters.
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What made me think about being in favor of abortion was when I started to see so many injustices; to know so many stories, so much content and information about how important and decisive it is to be a mother, how it changes your life.
Women Were Forced to Have Children
Also how in many cases, women were even forced to have children from rape, even when they did not want to continue the pregnancy. The suffering of so many children in street situations or in contexts where they should not be, simply because of irresponsible parents or other circumstances.
I think it is important for a woman to decide whether or not to continue a pregnancy because the life that is going to change is hers. Even if she has a desired motherhood, many scenarios can present themselves, such as losing her life. At least I was left suffering from health: at a young age I suffer from stress.
My advice to other women about their right to decide is to do what they feel is right for them. In case they don't want to be moms, to find the healthiest way not to have children. Having them is truly 100% life changing and you lose your identity.
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