May 2013 - I received an ultrasound at the Bay Centre for Birth Control a few days before my termination at the Morgentaler Clinic. The initial consultation was very thorough, I thought the doctor was very knowledgeable and did not make me feel any shame or judgement.
The ultrasound tech seemed kindly at first, but did some things, that looking back, seem a little odd. She chose to chat with me about my name, and the names of her kids, which may just have been something to take my mind off an uncomfortable procedure, but coupled with the fact that she left the ultrasound image on screen on and not turned away, I didn't have the option to not see it.
Looking back, I wonder if getting me to think about "naming children" and leaving the images on screen was an attempt to influence my decision. I fear she did this to other patients who had a lot more negative emotions about their decision and were made to feel shame and/or guilt about their choice.
The actual clinic where the termination took place could not have been better, but I do wish ultrasound techs - like the ones at The Bay Centre - could choose their 'small talk' a bit more tactfully and ensure nobody has to look at an ultrasound that they do not want to.
I was, and am, resolute in my decision to never have children, I know other people seeking reproductive care have experienced far more overt attempts at manipulation, but from this experience, I am still more guarded and defiant with health care providers.
I didn't provide feedback, I was so distracted by my illness that it was some time before I processed what was said to me.
Submitted by Kim
