Pro-Choice Catholic Testimony

After getting pregnant easily with my first child, I had three miscarriages while trying to have another child. The first couple of times, I had early miscarriages and miscarried at home. The last time, I got a positive pregnancy test and was thrilled when the pregnancy seemed to be progressing. At my first ultrasound appointment, however, I learned two things in short succession: that I was carrying twins and that it appeared that they might not be viable. Despite the bad news, I was thrilled at the prospect of having twins since I am a twin myself, and also one of three. But I soon learned definitely that the pregnancy was not viable and I would certainly miscarry again. The doctor advised me that I have an abortion for my own health and to maximize my ability to have a future successful pregnancy. My parents, both devout Catholics, and my husband supported my decision. The D&C procedure itself was painless and fast. A few months later, we saw a fertility specialist who advised that I start taking progesterone supplements. And a short time after that, I got pregnant with my son, who is now 9. He is a funny, kind, creative child and we’re so happy to have him and his sister in our lives. But I know in my heart that we would not have him if I had not elected have that abortion.