You may have heard that abortion comes with physical risks to your health, but did you know that abortion can cause mental health effects as well?
While the mental health risks of abortion are often less talked about than the physical risks, for many women, abortion creates mental health issues that can surface weeks, months, or even years later.
This is why it’s essential to learn all you can about how abortion might affect you mentally before making this choice.
Read on to learn more about the potential effects of abortion on your mental health. Or, if you’re looking for a safe space to talk about abortion and your other pregnancy options, contact Aggieland Pregnancy Outreach today. All appointments and resources are free and confidential.
Mental Health Risks of Abortion
Some women feel immediate relief after an abortion. However, for other women, abortion creates difficult mental health challenges. This is especially true if you feel at all pressured into having an abortion.
According to the Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons, almost 75% of women who had an abortion felt at least subtly pressured into making the decision—and many of these women suffered psychological effects afterward, including “depression (14.4%), guilt (14%), shame, regret, self-hatred, feelings of worthlessness, feelings of being unworthy of love, drug or alcohol addiction (9%), low self-esteem, anxiety, and thoughts or attempts of suicide (6.2%).”
How Can I Lower My Risk for Mental Health Complications from Abortion?
Every woman’s response to abortion is unique, and it’s impossible to know how abortion might affect you mentally. However, the best way to protect yourself from abortion risks is to understand all you can about abortion.
Some things to think about include:
- How might I feel if I choose abortion?
- How might I feel if I don’t choose abortion?
- What are my biggest concerns when it comes to abortion?
- Are any other pregnancy options feasible in my life? Why or why not?
- Am I feeling at all pressured into abortion?
We’re Here for You
Considering your answers to the above questions can help you talk with someone about your concerns.
At Aggieland Pregnancy Outreach, we’re here to talk. We provide a safe space to learn more about your options and ask questions in a safe, nonjudgmental environment.
You’re not alone in this. We’ll walk with you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn about all the ways we’re here to help.