Regardless of your personal and religious beliefs, dealing with an abortion is a difficult issue. If you are considering or have had an abortion, this guide will teach you how to find abortion counseling.

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before using the information presented here.

• Whether you are trying to figure out what to do upon finding that you are pregnant, or have had an abortion and find yourself depressed or confused, be aware that you do not have to deal with these weighty issues on your own. There are several means through which you can get abortion counseling from professionals who are specifically trained to address the issues with which you are dealing.

(Creative Commons photo by Steve Rhodes)

• If you have a family doctor that you trust and feel comfortable discussing your problem with, make an appointment to do so. If he or she is not personally able to provide you with abortion counseling, he or she will, at the very least, refer you to someone who can help you. If you are uncomfortable discussing abortion with your doctor, contact one of the other agencies listed below.

• The Planned Parenthood Federation of America is a national organization devoted to promoting sexual and reproductive health. Staff members at all Planned Parenthood offices are trained to offer abortion counseling. Check their website or call their toll-free number to find the Planned Parenthood office nearest to you.

• If you live in a rural area and are not able to visit your local Planned Parenthood office, contact them anyway, as they may be able to connect you with a counselor or center in your area. There are also several other women's health organizations you can contact that may be able to counsel you over the phone or direct you to a counselor in your area. You can try contacting:

1. Exhale: A confidential abortion hotline (1-866-4 EXHALE)
2. Abortion Recovery International
3. The National Abortion Federation
4. Center for the Advancement of Women

• Dealing with the emotional issues surrounding an abortion, whether you are planning on having an abortion or have already done so, can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there are several organizations that can help you connect with a professional who can provide you with the counseling you require.

•