Women face unplanned pregnancies at different stages in life.
Sometimes, women want to have children but feel they lack support. Their partner may be unwilling to parent, or the family seems reluctant to help.
Because of their circumstances, pressure, or other reasons, women might choose abortion, but every woman will react differently to an abortion experience.
Risk Factors for Negative Mental Health Impacts
Studies show that at least some women do have significant mental health issues after an abortion and certain risk factors can make this more likely, including:
- Feeling pressured to abort
- Having a history of mental health issues
- Having existing maternal desires
- Having conflicting moral beliefs
Women differ in their reactions after an abortion. Some may feel relief, and others may feel guilt, loss, or sadness. Often, grief will not surface until months or years later.
If you have had an abortion and are struggling, you are not alone.
Steps To Recovery
Healing after an abortion is possible, and the path will look unique for each woman.
Take small steps by first sharing your story with a trusted friend. Sharing can bring your story out into the open and free you from the feeling of carrying a secret.
Finding an excellent local counselor or one online can bring healing. Sometimes, churches offer specific programs or accessible counseling to help.
There are groups of women that meet to discuss grief and loss. Pregnancy centers often provide groups with others who have had similar struggles after an abortion or one-on-one sessions.
If you are facing a mental health condition such as depression or anxiety, you might require medical assistance. There is no shame in seeking professional help.
If you are considering suicide, seek immediate assistance. One resource is calling or texting 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
Contact Us for Support
If you are struggling after an abortion, our team at The Hope Bridge Pregnancy Resource Center would love to talk with you. We can provide community resources to help you during this difficult time.
If you think you might be pregnant, we can also provide free pregnancy testing and ultrasounds. Our medical professionals can give you the answers you need.
Contact us! We’re here for you.