Every woman is unique, and no one can predict how your mental health will be affected by abortion. It’s wise to consider the mental health effects of abortion when deciding the outcome of your pregnancy.
Effects
After an abortion, some women struggle with feelings of sadness, guilt, shame, grief, or regret, among other negative emotions. These feelings can occur immediately after the procedure or stay buried for years before emerging. Other women might not struggle with these feelings and instead feel relief after an abortion.
Mental Health Risks
Studies show that women are more likely to be diagnosed with mental health disorders like anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts after having an abortion.
Risk Factors
While no one can accurately predict how a woman will respond to an abortion, there are some risk factors for mental health struggles after the experience. Women who experienced the following issues with their abortions may have more significant risks:
- Feeling pressured to abort or they have no other option
- Women who want to be mothers but don’t feel they can
- Women with spiritual or religious backgrounds incongruent with abortion
- Women who have struggled with their mental health in the past
Post-Abortion
If you have experienced an abortion and are struggling with post-abortion stress symptoms, you are not alone. Your feelings are valid, and you deserve to be heard.
Seek counseling from a professional counselor if you have access to one. If counseling isn’t available, reach out to a trusted friend or family member and share your challenges. Our team at Options Medical Clinic can provide resources to assist with post-abortion emotional support.
Learn More
A crucial step in deciding if you should have an abortion is to gather all the facts surrounding the procedures and potential risks so that you can make a confident decision. If you would like to discuss your options, don’t hesitate to reach out.
At Options Medical Clinic, understanding advocates will meet with you free of charge to outline your different options. Get all the information you need to prioritize your health and safety. Contact us today.