No one can predict how abortion will affect you mentally. Every woman is unique and responds differently to her pregnancy and her decision to abort.
Issues like her gestational age (how far along she is), the abortion procedure itself, the woman’s role, level of support with her decision, etc., all play a role in the emotional outcome. There is one similarity experts agree on: the abortion experience directly contributes to mental health problems for at least some women.
What Should I Do if I’m Considering Abortion?
The Mayo Clinic recommends meeting with your healthcare provider before an abortion. Your provider should cover the following in your meeting:
- Do blood and/or urine tests.
- Do an ultrasound exam to determine how far along you are and that the location of the pregnancy is correct.
- Ultrasound also detects if your pregnancy is growing with a detectable heartbeat or if you have miscarried.
- Evaluate your medical history and overall health.
- Explain how abortion procedures work, the side effects, and the potential risks and complications.
Discussing your overall mental health with your provider is also vital.
How Will I Know if I Could be Affected?
Research shows that risk factors, such as pre-existing mental illness, identify women at greatest risk of mental health problems after an abortion. They cite some of the reasons women struggle emotionally afterward:
- Pressure from others to abort
- Lack of perceived social support from others
- Feelings of stigma; perceived need for secrecy
- The abortion experience and exposure to antiabortion picketing
- Low self-esteem
Are You Struggling Mentally?
The world is stressful. According to a recent American Psychological Association (APA) study, Gen Z adults and younger millennials are “completely overwhelmed.”
Do you fit in that category? Financial burdens, health fears, lingering isolation, safety concerns, and inflation add to the stress. The study found that 74% of people ages 18 to 34 find it harder to connect with people. Are you having to face your unexpected pregnancy alone?
How Can The Center for Women Help Me?
We are here for you. We do not want you to feel isolated or face your pregnancy and its outcome alone. Set up a free appointment with us.
We can offer a free limited ultrasound to give you the necessary information. In addition, we can explain your options. Although we do not provide or refer for abortion, we can give you factual information about procedures, side effects, and potential risks. Be prepared before you make a decision.
Protect your physical and mental health by visiting The Center for Women first. Schedule an appointment online or call us at (828) 885-7885.