The Emotional Effects of Abortion

Abortion can be a difficult decision for many women, and it can also come with a range of emotions. If you are considering abortion or have had an abortion, it is important to know that you are not alone and there is support available to you. At Care Net Milwaukee, we are here to listen, support and confidentially care for you as consider all your options. This blog post will explore the different emotions that can be associated with abortion, as well as provide some advice on how to cope with these emotions. We hope that this post will provide some comfort and understanding for anyone who is struggling with the aftermath of an abortion.

The effects of abortion can be emotionally difficult

When faced with the difficult decision of abortion, the effects can be emotionally painful and challenging for the mother. Often called abortion grief, abortion pain, abortion loss, or abortion depression, this range of emotions is nothing to be ashamed of but rather a real and valid experience that should be openly discussed. Depression, worrying about not being able to conceive again and abnormal eating behaviors have been reported as common in recent studies.  It can be helpful to involve compassionate supports in your circle as you navigate through these difficult feelings as each woman’s experience is unique and entirely valid. Remember that it is ok to seek comfort during tough times, for we all must allow ourselves to feel our feelings in order to move forward.

Some women feel a sense of regret, sadness, or loss

Abortion regret and depression are emotions no woman should have to face alone. Sadly, for some women, the sense of regret, sadness, or loss is real and can be overwhelming. As a caring and loving support system, it’s important to provide resources and compassion for anyone who has gone through this experience. No one should judge or shame these women for their decisions; instead, offer an open heart and shoulder to cry on. Everyone will benefit from knowing that in difficult times we can always rely on each other for strength and understanding.

It is important to talk to someone you trust about your feelings after an abortion

Couple embracing each other as they face the emotional effects of a past abortion.

After an abortion, it can be difficult to talk about the experience and your feelings. It is important to take the time to allow yourself to process the emotions and turn to someone who will provide support and understanding. A listening ear from a trusted confidant can be of great help in providing space for healing and hope. In addition, there are numerous organizations that offer support for women who have chosen to terminate their pregnancies; seek out counseling, advice, and resources from these caring professionals so that you can move forward without guilt or shame. Support and help is near at this difficult time – don’t hesitate to reach out. Care Net Milwaukee offers FREE, one-on-one support from a client advocate specially trained to work with women that are struggling with a past abortion decision.

There are many support groups, counselors, and resources available for women who have had abortions

It can be difficult for women who have had abortions to understand that love and care exist for them. Fortunately, there are several resources available to give those women the love and assistance they need. Support groups are great for offering a space of understanding and love, where those who have experienced this event in their life can interact with one another without judgement. Connecting with counselors is also beneficial, as they can provide real-time help that is tailored to the individual’s needs. Ultimately, it is important to know that love and care exist no matter what happens in life, and there are resources out there ready to support anyone willing to take advantage of them. For more information about how Care Net can support you during this time please check out our after-abortion support page: https://carenetmilwaukee.com/after-abortion-support/

You are not alone in how you feel after an abortion – there are many other women who understand what you’re going through

Seeking an abortion can be a stressful and emotional experience, often leaving those involved feeling overwhelmed and alone. It’s important to know that you are not alone in how you feel, as many other women have faced similar circumstances before. It can be quite reassuring to talk to someone who has gone through the same process, knowing that there is someone who really knows what it feels like. Talking about your abortion with a supportive person in an atmosphere of trust and love can help relieve some of the loneliness and worries surrounding it. Fortunately, there are many resources available to provide support—from online communities to hotlines or even face-to-face groups—allowing people to connect with others who share similar experiences. So remember: you don’t have to go through this painful time on your own; reach out for help when you need it.

Whether you’re feeling relief, regret, or a myriad of other emotions after an abortion, it is important to find a way to emotionally heal from your experience. You can find support in people who understand the unique look that the decision to have an abortion has brought you and provide compassionate guidance. There are many women across the country who can provide support and understanding, each with different stories on their journey after having an abortion. No matter your post-abortion feelings, take comfort in knowing that you are not alone and there are plenty of safe spaces to talk and cry if needed. We as a society must strive to create more acceptance for those who have gone through these emotional experiences – so keep talking— Care Net Milwaukee is here to serve you and we’d love to listen!

Care Net has been serving Milwaukee area women since 1985 and through this blog, we hope to continue sharing with the greater community peace, hope, and information related to pregnancy.