First-person accounts of abortion are very difficult to find, and most of the essays and anecdotes available are riddled in guilt and grief. They often resemble an apology letter to the world (or oneself), rather than an honest description of a controversial medical procedure. Secrecy, shame, and lack of nuance within abortion rhetoric is what makes it so taboo.

Here you will find a collection of anonymous stories - ages 17 to 34 in the US, United Kingdom, Ecuador, and Germany - showing the range of ways women process terminating a child. Some are effortless and simple, some are physically painful, others are emotionally ugly. But whether seeing their abortion as a cause for profound guilt or a mere bump in the road, all of our contributors stand firm in their belief that it was the CORRECT decision for them. 

One size does not fit all when it comes to any human experience, especially one that pertains to women’s health and, to a certain degree, death. I hope this episode brings everyone a sense of understanding, acceptance, comfort and most importantly, community. 

~ Tales of Taboo is produced and narrated by Ali Weiss. Follow Ali on Instagram & TikTok @aliweissworld. Audio production by Isabel McMahon & WTF Media. Theme song by Chris Stathopolous. Cover photo by Erika Flynn. Cover art by Kristen Montenegro. GOT A SECRET TO GET OFF YOUR CHEST? Share your own confession - or thoughts and feedback - at confessions@aliweissworld.com.