Abortion is a serious medical decision with the potential for physical and psychological consequences. Knowing what to expect beforehand is critical.
There is a definite connection between abortion and mental health issues for at least some women. Find out if you run the risk of being emotionally affected by abortion.
Who Are The People Affected Mentally By Abortion?
Studying the mental health effects of abortion is difficult. Women get abortions for many different reasons, at different ages, and different stages in their pregnancy. These factors make it challenging to research.
For instance, when a partner or family member pressures a woman to abort, she may struggle more emotionally than a woman who chooses for herself. Or, if a woman battles with depression or anxiety, to begin with, abortion may trigger or aggravate existing issues.
There are many factors to consider.
One study noted:
- Abortion is consistently associated with elevated rates of mental illness.
- 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 greatest risk of mental health problems after an abortion.
Will I Mentally Suffer After an Abortion?
The best thing to do before having an abortion is to talk with your healthcare provider. Discuss your physical and emotional health.
Are you currently dealing with peer pressure, anxiety, or depression? How do you personally feel about abortion?
What Happens Psychologically to Women Who Struggle With Their Abortions?
Many women report immediately feeling relief following the abortion procedure. But within months or years, some women express the following:
- Sadness
- Grief
- Feelings of loss
- Abortion-specific post-traumatic stress disorder
- Lower self-esteem
- Shame
- Feeling the need for secrecy
How Can Calaveras Pregnancy Center Support Me?
We provide free services to give you the pregnancy facts you need to determine your next step. Although we do not offer or refer for abortion, we can discuss the procedures, side effects, and potential risks with you.
If you have already had an abortion and are struggling with your mental health afterward, we offer a free program for post-abortion healing. It is designed to set you free by working through your thoughts, feelings, and emotions.
Take the time to learn all you can about how abortion may affect you physically and mentally. Contact us to set up your free and confidential appointment today.