How Will Abortion Affect Me Mentally?

If you’ve found out you are unexpectedly pregnant, then you’re likely feeling overwhelmed and are exploring all your options, abortion being one of them. 

Abortion doesn’t just have physical effects; it can also have emotional and mental effects, which are worth learning more about so you can make an informed decision and protect your well-being. 

Ascend Women’s Center is here for you, offering free and confidential abortion information consultations for women who are facing unexpected pregnancies and need extra support surrounding their options. 

We aren’t here to judge you or tell you what’s best for you; we are here to give you facts, considerations, and risks so you can get the support and information you need to make a decision that feels right for you. 

Schedule your abortion information consultation today.

Every Woman Is Different 

There is no single way a woman will feel after an abortion. For some, they may experience a sense of relief, while others may feel sadness, grief, or confusion about how to feel. There is also no timeline to healing after an abortion; it can take some women weeks, and for others, they might have emotions resurface unexpectedly on birthdays or anniversaries.

Every woman’s experience comes down to their personal circumstances, support network, and emotional well-being before they had an abortion. Research shows that women who feel pressured to agree to an abortion are more likely to experience negative emotional and mental health reactions. 

What Research Shows 

Although we can’t tell you exactly how you might feel mentally after an abortion, we can look at the research, which shows mixed findings. Some women report emotional difficulties after an abortion, while others do not experience lasting negative effects.

Here are some of the following findings –

• A 2011 meta-analysis by Coleman found that women who had abortions had a greater risk of mental health problems compared to women who had not had abortions.
• Some women do have significant mental health issues that are caused, triggered, aggravated, or complicated by their abortion experience.
• Abortion is consistently associated with elevated rates of mental health problems compared to women without a history of abortion.

Ultimately, every woman’s experience mentally post abortion is unique, but factors such as personal values, pressure, and previous mental health issues can make the emotional after effects worse. 

Seek Judgment-Free Support At Ascend Women’s Center 

If you’re considering an abortion, you don’t have to make this decision alone, and most importantly, if you feel as if you are being pressured or forced into getting an abortion, you should take steps to protect your safety emotionally and physically. 

Ascend Women’s Center offers a safe space for women to learn about their options when facing unexpected pregnancies at no cost, with important medical services provided, such as pregnancy testing and no-cost, limited OB ultrasounds.

Getting an ultrasound is an important part of our abortion information consultations since it determines the viability (heartbeat and development) of the pregnancy, location, and gestational age, all of which can determine whether or not an abortion is suitable for you.

We are here for you, and our door is open. Schedule your confidential appointment today.