Disclaimer: Hope Pregnancy Center does not administer, perform, prescribe nor refer for abortion procedures or medications.
THE EMOTIONAL SIDE OF ABORTION
Emotional Cost:
There is an emotional component that comes with having an abortion procedure. Terminating a pregnancy causes hormonal shifts. These hormonal shifts typically affect mood. But there is more than that. There are many feelings that come with having an abortion that can be complex and, at times, life threatening.
Possible emotional feelings after having an abortion procedure:
- Guilt or Regret
- Shame
- Anger
- Loneliness or isolation
- Low self-confidence or self-esteem
- Problems sleeping
- Problems dealing with relationships
- Suicidal thoughts and feelings
- Possible eating disorders
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Feelings of Grief
- Avoidance of Emotional Attachment
- Flashbacks
- Substance Abuse
For some women, these emotions may appear immediately after an abortion or gradually over a longer period of time.
**if you are having suicidal thoughts or long-term depression, seek a medical professional immediately.
Why do some women have negative emotional or psychological effects after an abortion?
Many times, the emotional side effects are highly connected to how we view the growing fetus.
Some don’t view the fetus as a baby, when others do.
Some feel immediate relief and others struggles with the aftereffects for years.
Here are some reasons why some women have a more difficult time after an abortion:
- Someone who may already have mental health issues.
- If the abortion felt pressured or demanded.
- Someone with a religious background that doesn’t support abortion.
- Someone who has a moral conflict with abortion.
- Someone who had a second or third term abortion.
- Someone who doesn’t have a support system.
- Someone who felt abortion was necessary based off of genetic testing or fetal abnormalities.
As you make your decision, it’s important to remember this is a medical decision and you can never get too much information. Reach out to a safe space where you can share your feelings and discuss what’s right for you. Consider contacting a counselor, or if you don’t know who to turn to, we are here for you. You can call us.
At Hope Pregnancy Center, our team of licensed RNs and trained advocates are here to listen and talk with you.
We do offer pre and post abortive emotional support. We are willing and ready to walk alongside you in any part of your journey, including pregnancy and parenting.
Our center offers evidence-based information about all pregnancy options. Hope Pregnancy Center does not administer, perform, nor refer for abortion procedures or medications.
The content on this page has been reviewed and approved by our Medical Director.