Each woman’s abortion experience is as unique as she is. Studies have found that some women have no negative psychological consequences from their abortion. However, these same studies show that other women develop serious mental health problems due to their abortions.
You must talk with your healthcare provider before choosing to have an abortion. You need to review your medical history and current drugs, have an ultrasound, and discuss procedures, side effects, and potential risks, including how you may respond emotionally.
If your pregnancy test from Sumter Pregnancy Center is positive and you meet our eligibility requirements, you may receive a free and confidential ultrasound. A team member can also discuss abortion procedures, possible side effects, and risks.
Will I Have Mental Health Problems Because of an Abortion?
How you emotionally respond to an abortion depends on several factors. Are you being pressured to have an abortion? What do you believe about abortion? Is your partner involved in your decision? These and many other issues impact how you will respond emotionally.
The above study has revealed the following three mental health factors:
- 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.
- Risk factors, such as pre-existing mental illness, identify women at greatest risk of mental health problems after an abortion.
What Mental Health Effects Could I Experience?
The Mayo Clinic states, “Having a medical abortion is a major decision with emotional and psychological consequences. If you’re considering this procedure, make sure you understand what it entails, side effects, possible risks, complications and alternatives.”
Some of the negative emotions women have reported after an abortion include the following:
- Loss
- Grief
- Sadness
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Post-abortion trauma
How Can Sumter Pregnancy Center Help Me?
Discussing abortion can be awkward. At Sumter Pregnancy Center, we want to give you the necessary information and discuss your situation, including the reasons for choosing abortion. With us, there is no judgment or lectures.
Schedule a free and confidential appointment to meet with a client advocate. We’re here to help you sort through your circumstances and find the best option. If you are experiencing mental health problems that may be due to an abortion, we can refer you to qualified therapists. You matter to us.