There is a certain gravity to an abortion decision because it is an emotional and serious medical procedure. Following an abortion procedure, many women report suffering from mental health complications stemming from their abortion.
According to the American Pregnancy Association, common negative feelings include:
- Guilt/shame
- Anger
- Remorse/regret
- Sleep problems and bad dreams
- Relationship problems
- Suicidal thoughts
- Loss of self-esteem or self-confidence
- Feelings of isolation/loneliness
Learn more about the option of abortion at Hope Rising today. We want you to be equipped with facts, research, and confidence as you make your pregnancy decision.
Many women feel pressured into having an abortion, and they often regret their decision. If you are currently contemplating abortion, it is best to honestly consider what you want and what you believe is the best decision for your unique circumstances.
How Abortion Affects the Mind
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), women with a history of abortion experience “elevated rates of mental illness” compared to women who have never had an abortion. It is important to note, that many women already struggle with mental health prior to their abortion. These women are at a greater risk for other mental effects after abortion.
“Fetal loss seems to expose women to a higher risk for mental disorders than childbirth; some studies show that abortion can be considered a more relevant risk factor than miscarriage.” – National Institutes of Health
The American Psychology Association has explored the mental health effects of abortion for some time, and one of their studies concluded that “some women clearly experience sadness, grief, and feelings of loss following termination of a pregnancy, and some experience clinically significant disorders, including depression and anxiety.”
When Considering Abortion
When considering abortion, take your time to organize all of your thoughts regarding the procedure. Think about what you want, and not necessarily what other people may be pressuring you to do. Abortion is a serious medical decision, and many women choose to have an abortion against their own desires. The truth is, you have options, and only you can make this pregnancy decision.
If you want more information about all of your pregnancy options, or you want to explore some of our no-cost services, we would be happy to speak with you. Contact us today; you are not alone.