Because every woman is different, there’s no specific answer for the mental effects of abortion on every woman. Instead, each woman considering abortion should consider her mental health history, feelings about her pregnancy, and other factors before deciding.
What We Know About Abortion and Mental Health
While the tie between abortion and mental health is controversial, research shows that at least some women experience negative mental health effects after abortion. Risk factors can also increase the likelihood of experiencing mental health issues afterward.
These mental health effects include depression, anxiety, suicidal behaviors, and substance abuse. However, again, it can vary.
Here are some risk factors to keep in mind.
1. You Have a History of Mental Health Issues.
If you have a history of anxiety, depression, or another mental health disorder, you are at a greater risk of experiencing negative mental health issues after an abortion.
Aspects of the issues could be considered a continuation of pre-existing mental health issues, but there’s a potential that abortion could contribute to them in some way. More research could be done in this area to determine whether there is a clear cause and effect.
2. You Feel Pressured or Coerced.
If you are pressured into a decision you don’t want to make, it can cause a range of mental health consequences. You might feel grief over what could have been and even suffer trauma from being mentally or emotionally abused.
If you are a victim of domestic abuse, you can call the domestic abuse hotline at 800-799-7233 or text “START” to 88788.
3. You Ignore Existing Maternal Desires.
When thinking about abortion, think through your other two options: parenting and adoption. If deep down you’d prefer another choice or have existing maternal desires, choosing abortion can cause stress from your decision not aligning with what you actually wanted.
4. Your Decision Conflicts with Your Beliefs.
When our actions conflict with our beliefs, we can experience tension when trying to justify our decisions. There’s a greater risk of mental health issues if you have religious or moral beliefs that do not align with your pregnancy choice.
Make sure to soul search and explore your beliefs and background when contemplating abortion. To get an outside perspective, speak with someone you respect to get their thoughts, but ultimately, remember that the decision is up to you.
Free Support in Oroville and Gridley, California
Choosing what to do with your pregnancy is a significant life decision. Even though the decision is yours, you can receive support. We offer free peer counseling for you to talk about your emotions and options in a safe space.
If you have already had an abortion and are struggling emotionally or mentally, we offer after-abortion care support in a one-on-one or group setting.
Contact us today for more information. You’re not alone.
This blog is for informational purposes only. This facility is not a licensed medical facility. We do not offer, recommend, or refer for abortions or abortifacients; therefore, we receive no financial gain from your decision. We are committed to providing accurate information about pregnancy options, abortion procedure risks and alternatives, and after-abortion care.