What Are the Mental Health Effects of Abortion?

Every woman’s abortion experience is personal and unique. For some women, they feel immediate relief, but for others, grief and sadness fall on them within days or weeks. The truth is, abortion can cause harmful mental health issues for some women. 

Getting mental health care is essential after an abortion, no matter how you feel. Let’s take a look at some of the mental health effects. 

If you’re considering an abortion but struggling mentally and wonder if adoption might be a better option, contact us. We can discuss all of the side effects and potential risks of abortion and provide options. You are not alone. We’re here for you. 

Can Abortion Cause Mental Health Problems?

Medical studies suggest that having an abortion can cause mental health problems for at least some women. 

One research study concluded the following about some women’s reactions to their abortions:

• Abortion is consistently associated with elevated rates of mental illness compared to women without a history of abortion.
• The abortion experience directly contributes to mental health problems for at least some women. 
• There are risk factors, such as pre-existing mental illness, that identify women at the most significant risk of mental health problems after an abortion.

What Type of Mental Health Problems Do Women Experience?

Various studies have concluded that some women experience the following after their abortion:

• Grief
• Sadness/isolation
• Trauma
• Depression/anxiety
• Regret
• Eating disorders
• Substance abuse

Will I Struggle Emotionally?

Sadly, it is difficult to determine which women will be affected negatively by abortion. Factors such as finances, relationships, and culture often determine the emotions felt. If a woman is forced to have an abortion, she may feel greater sadness and regret. It’s impossible to say how you will feel. 

Here are the words of a couple of anonymous Reddit users after their abortions:

Does the abortion grief ever go away?

“I wanted my baby but thought I was making the right decision. Every day I regret that decision. Every day I grieve. Does it get better? What helps?” 

Unstable mood, depression, low self worth 9 months after MA (medical abortion)

“Has anyone else experienced longer term psychological struggles after their procedure? I had one about 9 months ago. My mood has been generally a lot more unstable since. My lows are lower. My PMS symptoms seem worse.”  

How Can Lamb of God Assist Me?

If you are facing an unexpected pregnancy and are considering abortion, take time to learn as much as possible about the procedures, side effects, and potential risks. You also need to know that you have two other options. 

At Lamb of God Maternity Home, we provide a safe place to explore those options. You are not alone. We can talk privately about your circumstances and hopes for the future. There is an answer, and we’ll help you find it.

Before making any decision, contact Lamb of God. Fill out our online contact form or call us at 760-294-7969. If you need immediate help, please do not hesitate to use our 24/7 hotline. Call 760-715-6463. We’re always here for you.

Lamb of God Maternity Home does not perform or refer for abortion.

All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.