How Will Abortion Affect Me Mentally?

As you look into abortion, it’s essential to consider all aspects, including the potential mental health implications. Research consistently shows that abortion is associated with elevated rates of mental illness compared to women who do not have a history of abortion.

Understanding these mental health risks can help you make an informed decision and seek the support you need. We will explore the potential mental health effects of abortion and provide insights to help you navigate your emotions and well-being during this time.

Risk Factors To Consider

Feeling pressured to choose abortion, whether by a partner, family, or society, can be overwhelming and leave you feeling out of control. It’s important to recognize that no one should make this decision for you.

Having an abortion when it goes against your moral beliefs or a deep desire to be a mother can cause significant emotional pain. This conflict between your values and the circumstances can lead to feelings of guilt and sadness.

If you have a history of mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, the experience can be even harder. Previous struggles with mental health can make coping with the emotions after an abortion more challenging.

Mental Health Effects

Experiencing an abortion can lead to various mental health issues, impacting relationships and personal well-being. The emotional strain may cause problems with partners, family, and friends, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. This stress can strain communication and trust, making it harder to find support during a difficult time.

Additionally, abortion can lead to depression, suicidal thoughts, and PTSD. The intense emotions of loss, guilt, and regret can trigger severe sadness and anxiety. Some individuals may turn to substance misuse to cope with these feelings, creating further challenges.

It’s crucial for those affected to seek compassionate support and professional care to navigate these difficult emotions.

Get Support

Before seeking an abortion, it’s crucial to get informed about your options as well as access pregnancy services to get you details you’ll want to know.

Crossroads can help you go through your options, and you may be able to get a no-cost ultrasound to help you learn more about your pregnancy.

Sources:

Grauerholz, K. R., Berry, S. N., Capuano, R. M., & Early, J. M. (2021). Uncovering prolonged grief reactions subsequent to a reproductive loss: Implications for the primary care provider. Frontiers in Psychology, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.673050
Reardon, D. C. (2018). The abortion and mental health controversy: A comprehensive literature review of common ground agreements, disagreements, actionable recommendations, and research opportunities. SAGE Open Medicine, 6, 205031211880762. https://doi.org/10.1177/2050312118807624