These stories are published at Shout Your Abortion on Instagram. The first story is a request for people to share their experiences, followed by responses that include stories of people having more than one abortion or mentioning the resolve to have more than one.

Post asking for experiences:

I’m 42 and am considering my 2nd abortion and am troubled about this decision but not really. I am really interested in hearing from the community and women who are in their 40s without children and have had abortions and might be worried that because of their age this might be ‘the last shot ‘. Does that make sense? I’m struggling here. If you could post this anonymously or reword my statement. I would appreciate that. Thank you.

Responses:

I am 56. Had 2 abortions in my late 20s. I had a hard time getting pregnant later and had an ectopic pregnancy and a miscarriage. I adopted and couldn’t be happier! I love my son! He was meant to be my son! You got tons of options girl! Don’t make this decision based on fear of future desires. What do you want now? Do what is best for you. Sending you tons of love ❤️

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Hi there, I had two abortions over 40. Personally, I’m very glad I did and had good experiences, but that’s my own story/path. ❤️

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I’m 33 and just had my second abortion in March. I want kids. I too was worried…”what if this is it?”… but I was in an emotionally abusive relationship with someone much older than me who had kids and didn’t want more. Plus we had broken up before I found out. I do not regret my decision but I did struggle with this same thing.

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My heart goes out to you - there’s a lot to consider. I had my second abortion at age 42 and did have a moment of pause about it being likely my last chance to have a child. When I considered what I wanted my life to look like, and what I would want a child’s life to look like, they simply didn’t match up. I wasn’t in a place where I was willing to make the life changes needed to raise a child. I think every child born should be an intentional choice. People should be REALLY sure they want to give all that it takes to raise and support a thoughtful, kind human before having a baby. I was glad to have the option to abort when I realized that was the best choice for me. It solidified that I still have value and can be a good woman if I am not a mother. Sending you comfort and compassion as you make this decision ❤️

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I am also 42, no children and have had 1 previous abortion. Someone asked me recently if I got pregnant what I what do and I did hesitate but then said I'd definitely have an abortion. I am not in a relationship at the moment and I honestly have come to terms with not having kids. It's ok! That's not what we are here for only. Do what YOU want to do. Ask yourself in a moment of calm what you truly want and do that. This your body, your life, your choice.

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I’m 42 and childfree . I had an abortion at 37 and would do it again. I get the “last shot” thinking, just because it’s a logical thought to have at this age. But when I play that tape through to the end (and it is indeed a cassette tape, because I’m 42 lol) I don’t find anything that changes my mind about being childfree. I don’t want to be up all hours of the night with a screaming infant. I really like my “DINK” lifestyle and feel like I’m finally in a place of financial security… I simply don’t want to give that up. I see friends with little ones and yes sometimes it seems charming, but never enough that I want to completely upend my whole life! For me it’s a pretty straightforward decision and if I haven’t changed my mind or regretted it so far, this isn’t a phase. I decided if I ever *do* find that I deeply regret not having children, I will foster or adopt… there are lots of kids out there that nobody wants, especially the older they get.