Abortion impacts every woman differently, so it’s critical to learn the potential impacts and assess your mental health before deciding.

While you cannot predict exactly how you’ll feel, evaluating your current situation and researching the potential mental health impacts can help you make an informed choice.

Choices of the Heart will discuss the potential emotional effects of abortion in a confidential, nonjudgmental environment. Make a no-cost appointment today to get started.

Keep reading to learn more about how abortion could affect you mentally.

Every Experience is Different

What happens for one woman may not happen for another. After an abortion, some women may feel a sense of relief. Others could feel regret, confusion, or anxiety—and these feelings may not surface for weeks, months, or years after the procedure.

While you can’t anticipate every potential impact, researching the subject, considering your mental health history, and speaking to a qualified professional can help.

What Does the Research Say?

The American Psychological Association’s Task Force on Mental Health and Abortion found that “some women do experience sadness, grief, and feelings of loss following termination of a pregnancy, and some experience clinically significant disorders, including depression and anxiety.” 

However, this does not mean that abortion is directly related to increased rates of mental health issues. Instead, women should review their specific situation and whether they have a preexisting history of mental health concerns. That is the biggest factor when considering potential impacts after an abortion. 

The APA found that other factors could result in negative emotional impacts for women after first-trimester abortions. These factors include:

• Low self-esteem
• Stigma or a perceived need for secrecy
• The extent to which the woman wanted to continue the pregnancy

Additionally, religious or cultural beliefs or feeling pressured to have an abortion could impact a woman’s mental health. Her age and whether she already has children could also affect how she responds to the procedure. 

If you are considering abortion, know that resources and information can help you make a confident decision. We’ll explain some steps to take before you decide.

How Do I Decide?

You alone can make a pregnancy decision, and gathering information is crucial.

If you have already confirmed your pregnancy with an ultrasound and are wondering about the potential mental health impacts, take some time to assess your situation. Have you experienced a mental health condition in the past, or are you currently experiencing disorders like depression or anxiety?

Reflecting on your reasons for considering abortion can also help determine whether you feel pressured or coerced into having one. No one has the right to make this decision for you; you deserve to make one that best fits your situation. 

Speaking to a mental health professional (i.e., a counselor) can help you assess your feelings in a confidential space. Your healthcare provider can also address the potential emotional impacts and discuss your health history.

Choices of the Heart knows this can be a challenging time. We’re here to help with no-cost resources.

We’re Here for You

Choices of the Heart can discuss abortion and its side effects and risks. We provide a caring environment to address your specific concerns. No matter which option you’re considering, we’re here to listen.

Our pregnancy options consultation will help you get the facts. It’s your decision; we’re here to be an unbiased resource.

Schedule a no-cost, confidential appointment today. You are not alone.

Choices of the Heart does not provide or refer for abortions.

All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.