Just like there are potential physical risks with abortion, there are also possible emotional risks. Some women experience deep sadness and depression because of their abortion. Experts say your response has much to do with your mental health beforehand.
What Is Depression?
According to the Mayo Clinic, depression is a “mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest.” They list the following as some of the symptoms of depression:
- Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness, or hopelessness
- Angry outbursts, irritability, or frustration
- Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities
- Sleep disturbances
- Tiredness and lack of energy
How Will I Know How Abortion Affects Me?
No two women respond to life’s circumstances the same. There isn’t a right way or a wrong way. There are just different ways of seeing the world around us.
The Task Force on Mental Health and Abortion studied identifying risk factors that might lead to mental health problems after an abortion. Here are a few of them:
- Pressure from others to have an abortion
- Feelings of stigma and the need for secrecy
- A prior history of mental health problems
- Personality factors such as low self-esteem
- A history of previous abortions
What Are The Mental Health Problems After Abortion?
Many women immediately report feeling relief following their abortion. Others experience negative feelings in the weeks, months, and even years afterward. According to a MedicalNews Today article, some of the common negative emotions are:
- Guilt
- Anger
- Shame
- Remorse or regret
- Loss of self-esteem or self-confidence
Are You Or Someone You Know Considering Abortion?
At Pregnancy Care Center, we provide free lab-quality pregnancy testing that is 99% accurate. We’ll also confirm your pregnancy with a free limited ultrasound if you receive a positive pregnancy test result.
Afterward, we can confidentially discuss abortion procedures, side effects, and the potential physical and emotional risks. You have options, and we want to ensure you have as much information as possible to make a confident and empowered decision.
Schedule an appointment with a member of our staff today. We’re here for you.