No one can say what specific emotional or mental health issues a woman might face after an abortion. Every woman’s experience is personal and unique to her.
Researchers have struggled to define the mental health effects because there are so many factors to consider. For instance, how far along was she in her pregnancy? Was someone forcing her to have the abortion? What type of procedure did she have?
Research suggests that having an abortion can add to mental health problems for at least some women. Who are those women, and are you one of them? Learn more about the characteristics that might lead to mental health problems after an abortion.
What Does the Research Say?
Many women say they feel relief immediately following their abortions, but within weeks, months, or even years, some begin to experience guilt, shame, sadness, or grief.
The National Library of Medicine published a study about the effects of abortion on a woman’s mental health. Here are some of their findings:
- 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 the most significant risk of mental health problems after an abortion.
Factors That Might Add to Emotional Problems
The above study lists some of the factors that might lead to having mental health problems after an abortion. They include:
- Low self-esteem
- Perceived lack of control over one’s life
- Perceived need for secrecy
- Lack of support from others
- A history of prior abortions
What Do Women Say?
“It would have been my due date.”
“It would have been my due date.. why do I feel sad.. when I made the choice ..No regrets just sadness .. guilt?” Random Reddit User
Even though the woman above says she has no regrets, she feels sadness and guilt. She is remembering the date when she was due to give birth. The struggle is real.
Women who regret their choice suffer from even deeper emotional problems. Some women experience the following:
- Complicated grief
- A sense of loss
- Trauma
- Depression/anxiety
- Substance use
- Sleep disorders
Before Making a Pregnancy Decision
Experts recommend speaking with a healthcare provider before choosing to have an abortion. Reviewing your medical history, the drugs you are taking, and your mental health are vital.
At Her Hope Pregnancy Center, we recommend verifying your pregnancy first. Start with a medical-grade pregnancy test at our center. If your test is positive, we’ll provide a free, limited obstetric ultrasound.
A Client Specialist can meet with you to discuss your situation and review your options, including abortion. Schedule a free and confidential appointment today. We’re here for you.