The effects of abortion on mental health are highly personal. Every unique abortion experience can impact each woman differently.
Mayo Clinic states, “After a medical abortion, you may have a mix of emotions, including relief, loss, sadness, or guilt.” However, what that mix looks like will depend on your situation.
If considering abortion, we recommend asking yourself difficult questions and exploring how you might feel after a procedure. Here are a few steps to guide you as you evaluate this significant life decision.
1. Examine Every Option
Every woman has three pregnancy options: parenting, adoption, and abortion. Gather the facts on each one so you can envision what each option would be like before your pregnancy, during, and after.
As you imagine each option, what stands out as a challenge? What are the pros and cons? How do you think you’d feel after?
These questions can help you understand how your future will change after your choice and also enable you to picture yourself in each circumstance.
2. Consider Your Mental Health
How is your mental health right now? Experts agree that some women experience negative mental health effects after abortion. One risk factor is having existing mental health issues such as anxiety or depression.
Consider your mental health status and whether it could affect your emotions after an abortion or another option.
3. Evaluate Your Beliefs and Desires
In addition to having existing mental health issues, if you have beliefs that conflict with abortion or maternal desires, this can lead to an increased risk of mental health issues after abortion.
Write down your thoughts and beliefs about abortion. Explore whether you have maternal desires
Try not to repress or ignore your feelings, beliefs, and desires. Ignoring them won’t make them go away. Facing them head-on will help you make a pregnancy decision that you can reconcile with your self-identity and future.
4. Keep an Open Mind
Even if you think abortion is the only solution, keep an open mind. Your feelings can fluctuate and even change. Move forward with a pregnancy decision only when you feel informed, confident, and at peace.
We Can Help
You are the best predictor of how an abortion might affect you mentally. As you explore, we invite you to visit us. We can help you process your emotions and options in a confidential setting. Schedule a free appointment today.
If you are currently struggling with your mental health after an abortion, reach out to us. We offer post-abortive support to help you heal.
Open Door Pregnancy Center believes you have a right to accurate information from a resource that will not profit from your pregnancy decision. We are an alternative resource that does not perform or refer for abortion. The information on this website is for educational purposes only.