Like all the pregnancy options, abortion is a very personal choice. That’s why it’s so controversial. What is a pro to some people is a con to others. Here’s our list of things to take into consideration:

Some people feel strongly that abortion is wrong. Others have equally strong beliefs that it’s a girl’s or woman’s right to choose whether or not she gives birth. Think about your moral, cultural and religious beliefs. What do you believe about abortion? How did you come to believe this? What have you been taught in your family or faith community about abortion? How do these messages fit with your own personal sense of morality? No one should ever be pressured into having an abortion if she doesn’t feel it’s right for her, nor should she be shamed or pressured into choosing not to have an abortion if that’s what she really wants to do.

Abortion is a safe, legal medical procedure, when done early in a pregnancy. There are organizations such as the National Network for Abortion Funds that can help a woman pay for an abortion if she can’t afford it. There are also Web sites devoted to helping women think through the abortion decision, such as PregnancyOptions.info, as well as hotlines, like Exhale, where you can call after the procedure to talk about the experience.

Whatever you choose, be sure you do it because it’s the best choice for you. The sooner you get information about your options and start to consider them, the more options may be available to you. Find a trusted adult as soon as possible. This person can help you understand your options and help assure that you stay safe and healthy and make a decision—regardless of what that decisions is—that feels right for you.

PregnancyOptions.info can provide you with more information as you consider this personal decision.

Get more information on abortion, and be sure to check out more FAQs and teen-written stories.