There is no set response after an abortion. Every woman experiences one differently. Many say they feel immediate relief but begin to feel sad, anxious, or guilty over time.
Are you struggling emotionally after an abortion? You are not alone. Your feelings are valid, and there is hope. You can recover and find joy again.
Struggling emotionally after an abortion is a very real issue. Because women don’t feel they have the freedom to talk about it, they often suffer in silence.
Why Would I Struggle Emotionally?
According to PsychCentral, women do experience their abortions differently based on their reasons for the procedure. They list the following that might cause distress afterward:
- Uncertainty or doubts about getting an abortion
- Negative personal or religious beliefs about abortion
- A history of mental health conditions
- Lack of emotional or social support
- The reasons for your abortion
- Perceived stigma
- Feeling devalued
What Are the Symptoms of Emotional Struggles?
Some of the emotional struggles you might deal with are:
- Moodiness
- Sadness
- Guilt or regret
- Anger toward those who helped or motivated the decision
- Anger toward those who didn’t support your decision
- Anxiety
- Worry about future pregnancies
Can Abortion Affect Your Mental Health?`
A research study published by the National Institute of Health determined the following:
- Abortion is consistently associated with elevated rates of mental illness compared to women without a history of abortion.
- The abortion experience directly contributes to mental health problems for at least some women.
- There are risk factors, such as pre-existing mental illness, that identify women at the greatest risk of mental health problems after an abortion.
How Can I Heal?
At Calaveras Pregnancy Center, we offer post-abortion support for free because we believe that every woman deserves to live a whole and healthy life full of hope. Our program, Forgiven and Set Free, can set you on a healing path.
This unique 8-week course is designed to help you work through your thoughts, feelings, and emotions.
To enroll, fill out our confidential online Contact Form and begin your healing journey. We’re here for you.
Calaveras Pregnancy Center does not provide or refer for abortions. This information is intended for general education and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice.