Every woman experiences abortion differently. While some women find they’re relieved after the procedure, others may experience sadness and regret.
If you’ve had an abortion and are struggling, know your emotions are valid. Your unique situation warrants a healing journey catered to your needs and life experience. Pregnancy Help Center provides free and confidential post-abortion support.
After an Abortion
While it’s true that abortion procedures cause definite physical side effects like abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding, it can be more difficult to pinpoint how you’ll feel emotionally. Often, this depends on your unique situation, including any outside pressure you faced to abort, preexisting mental health conditions, your relationships, and any personal beliefs about abortion.
We do know that some women do experience emotional challenges after abortion. The National Library of Medicine found that women can have negative mental health effects after an abortion, including:
- Grief
- Feelings of loss
- Anxiety
- Depression
If you do develop these effects, they can take a short time or even years to develop. Regardless of when they began, you deserve to place yourself on a path toward peace.
Moving Forward
A good first line of defense for post-abortion mental health effects is professional counseling. A trained counselor or therapist specializing in post-abortion recovery can help you process difficult emotions, develop effective coping skills, locate support groups, and identify when additional support is needed.
You also support your recovery by being open about your experience (if comfortable doing so). Sometimes, speaking with a loved one can make a significant difference as you process what happened.
Although these feelings can seem all-consuming, it’s vital to take care of yourself during this time. Do things you enjoy, eat your favorite foods, and try your best not to isolate yourself from others. Participating in everyday activities can show you the “light at the end of the tunnel” and remind you hope still exists.
Pregnancy Help Center offers post-abortion support through “Surrendering the Secret.” This ministry helps you heal from abortion in a compassionate, hope-filled environment. You’ll receive the tools you need to move forward.
Contact us today to learn about how we can help you heal.
