After an abortion, the experience may stay with you in ways you didn’t expect. You might replay what happened, question whether you made the right decision, or find that certain feelings surface when you thought you had moved past them.
There is no required timeline for processing an abortion, and there is no single emotion you are expected to feel. You may experience relief alongside sadness, grief, regret, anger, or confusion.
At Pregnancy Help Center, you can talk about your experience in a confidential setting. We offer free post-abortion support where you can ask questions and receive support. You don’t have to explain everything perfectly. We’re here to listen.
Get in touch to make an appointment today.
Allow Yourself to Feel
It can be difficult to move forward when you feel like you have to ignore what happened or keep your emotions to yourself.
Instead, give yourself permission to acknowledge what you are feeling. You may feel several of these emotions at once, or you may not have the words for what you’re feeling yet.
You do not have to force yourself to feel better by a certain date. Writing in a journal, praying, taking a walk, or spending time with someone you trust may help you express what you are experiencing.
Seek Support
You do not have to work through difficult emotions alone.
Consider talking with someone who will listen without judging you or telling you how you should feel. This might be a trusted friend, family member, counselor, or qualified mental health professional.
If you are finding it difficult to cope, support groups may also be helpful. Reaching out does not mean you are weak or that you should feel a certain way. It simply gives you a place to talk and receive support.
Pregnancy Help Center offers post-abortion support through “Surrendering the Secret.” You’ll receive the tools you need to heal from abortion in a hope-filled environment.
Practice Self-Compassion
Try to give yourself the same patience and understanding you would offer someone else going through a difficult experience.
Forgiving yourself does not mean pretending the experience did not matter. It means allowing yourself to acknowledge what happened without believing that you must remain trapped in guilt or shame.
You can learn from your experience, recognize what you wish had been different, and still allow yourself to hope for the future. Try to take care of yourself during this difficult time and do things you enjoy, even if it feels difficult. There is light at the end of the tunnel.
We Are Here For You
At Pregnancy Help Center, we provide a confidential place to talk about your abortion experience. Our team is here to listen without judgment and help you find the support that may be right for you.
If you are looking for healing after an abortion, you can take one step at a time. You deserve support, understanding, and the opportunity to move forward with hope.
Contact us to learn more about the support available to you. You are not alone.
Pregnancy Help Center does not provide or refer for abortions.
