Can having an abortion affect my mental health?

Your mental health can be affected by any stressful event, including medical or surgical
abortion. According to a 2023 article in the BCM Psychiatry Journal ⁶³ :

• Depression after abortion is a common problem for all women of reproductive age.
• World-wide, just over 30% of women who had an abortion reported some level of post-
  abortion depression.

What kinds of feelings are normal after an abortion?

• Emotional responses to abortion can range from happiness, relief and calm, to regret,
  loss, grief and sadness. ⁶⁴
• Abortion can be a traumatic experience. ⁶⁵
• Abortion can take a toll on your mental health. ⁶⁶
• It might help to talk to a trusted person or mental health professional.
• Contact your doctor if you are having trouble coping with everyday tasks.

Can I reduce the risk of depression?

Social Worker Danielle Wade ⁶⁷ has 5 mental health tips for those thinking of abortion:

• Avoid pressure to do something you don’t want to do.
• Weigh all your options carefully.
• Seek medical advice, asking as many questions as possible.
• Speak with trusted people.
• Try to avoid isolation.

If you are feeling pressured to make an abortion decision, call us for support.

How do I cope with my feelings after my abortion?

Dr. Surabhi Siddhartha ⁶⁷ has five mental health tips for coping with your post-abortion
feelings.

• Speak to your loved ones.
• Do not isolate yourself.
• Talk with a counselor.
• Don’t allow anyone to pressure you about the decision you made.
• Take care of yourself – rest, exercise, eat a healthy diet.

She also provides additional ideas for taking some “Me” time to help yourself recover.

• Pamper yourself.
• Spend time on a hobby like dancing, singing or painting.
• Follow a structured routine every day.
• Exercise daily.
• Try some Yoga
• Join a support group.
• Speak to other women who are coping with similar problems.
• Go for counseling if needed.

If you are thinking of abortion, we can help. Are you struggling with your feelings after abortion, we can help you. Visit StandUpGirl.com if you don’t live in Alaska and they will help you find no-cost services in your area.