Every woman’s abortion experience, just like every woman, is unique. Many women say they immediately feel relief afterward, while others say they feel sorrow, grief, or loss.
Research has found that there are emotional consequences from abortion for some women. If you are considering abortion, discuss the potential mental health issues with your healthcare provider first.
Can Abortion Cause Mental Health Problems?
A study published by the National Institutes of Health reviewed research on the link between abortion and mental health issues. Here’s what their research uncovered:
- Abortion is consistently associated with elevated rates of mental illness compared to women without a history of abortion.
- The abortion experience directly contributes to mental health problems for at least some women.
- There are risk factors, such as pre-existing mental illness, that identify women at greatest risk of mental health problems after an abortion.
What Effects Can Abortion Have on My Emotions?
In addition to women reporting feeling grief, sadness, or loss, some women struggle with anxiety and depression. These two emotions can have devastating effects on your daily life.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, symptoms of anxiety include:
- Persistent and severe worrying
- Overthinking
- Obsessing over situations or outcomes
- Indecisiveness
- Fear
- Inability to relax
Symptoms of depression are these:
- Feelings of sadness and hopelessness
- Loss of interest
- Trouble sleeping
- Feeling exhausted
- Unexplained physical pain or aches
- Feelings of worthlessness and low self-esteem
How you emotionally respond to an abortion can change depending on several factors:
- How far along you are in your pregnancy
- If you are being pressured to abort
- If you have someone supporting your decision
- A pro-life or religious background
- The fear you might lose your partner if you don’t abort
- The type of abortion procedure
How Can Choices Family Resource Centers Assist Me?
If you haven’t confirmed your pregnancy, we can help. We offer no-cost, medical-grade pregnancy tests. You may be able to receive a no-cost, limited ultrasound, too.
An ultrasound determines how far along you are, if your pregnancy is growing or if you have miscarried, and if the location of your pregnancy is correct.
You also need to learn the various abortion procedures and limitations, plus the side effects and potential risks. Once you have as much information as possible, you can choose the best option for your future.
We provide no-cost consultations. Contact us at the location nearest you. Our professional medical staff is ready to answer your questions and help you.