Having an abortion is a life-changing decision, and everyone copes with having one differently. Some women may feel relieved, while others may feel overwhelmed. It’s essential to validate your feelings and understand the emotional impacts of abortion before having one.
You deserve to know all the facts beforehand; your mental health is important!
The Emotional Effects of Abortion
Abortion, like many other medical procedures, can trigger a variety of emotions in the patient. According to the National Library of Medicine, a woman may feel:
- Depression
- Grief
- Sadness
- Anxiety
- Feelings of loss
Some of these emotions may occur immediately after an abortion. For other women, they take some time to develop. If you find them interfering with your day-to-day life, it is crucial that you speak with a trusted health professional to receive help.
What Is Depression?
Depression is one of the emotional effects of abortion, and it can range in severity. Recognizing the signs of depression is key to ensuring you receive support because every woman’s experience is different.
According to the Mayo Clinic, people who have depression may experience these symptoms:
- Feelings of sadness, emptiness, etc.
- Loss of interest or pleasure in doing activities
- Anxiety, restlessness
- Trouble thinking, remembering things, or making decisions
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Tiredness and lack of energy
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Where Can I Go for Support?
If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy and unsure who to turn to, consider making an appointment at Sage Women’s Center. Our caring staff will provide you with the answers and information you need!
If you have had an abortion and are experiencing any of the emotional effects listed above, it is imperative that you reach out to a trusted health professional to access resources and support. There are also many pregnancy centers that can provide post-abortion healing services. These services are usually offered at no cost to you.