If you are having an emotional reaction to an abortion, this is not uncommon. Although each woman is different in her response, it’s important to recognize that just as your body will need to recover from the procedure, so might your mind and spirit.
There are lots of studies to support the fact that women who undergo an abortion may seriously struggle with mental health after the fact, even displaying PTSD symptoms. There is hope for healing, no matter how you are feeling at the moment. Read this article for possible resources and steps you can take to find healing.
Give Yourself Time and Space
It’s important that you don’t try to “keep it together” just to survive. Give yourself grace and, after school or work, you let yourself process your emotions, whatever they are.
Understand that you underwent a traumatic physical procedure. Abortion ends a pregnancy artificially, so when the fetal placenta is detached from the uterine lining, it can cause a sort of shock to your hormonal system, this can affect how you’re feeling as your body regains its normal hormonal levels. Give your body some grace as you recover from abortion.
Post Abortion Stress Syndrome (PASS) symptoms include some of the following:
- Guilt
- Anxiety
- Numbness
- Flashbacks
- Suicidal thoughts
Get Help From Your Support System
You shouldn’t have to walk this journey alone, no matter your reasons for your abortions. It’s normal if you feel some kind of grief or loss. Reach out to a trusted family member or friend.
The worst thing you can do right now is isolated yourself, so make sure you surround yourself with loved ones to provide the support you deserve so you can begin your healing journey.
Seek Post-Abortive Care
In addition to your family and friends, we recommend that you seek professional help, if possible. You may consider seeing a therapist or professional counselor, or reaching out to your church or place of worship for counseling if you are faith-based.
Here at North Care Women’s Clinic, we also offer post-abortive support, which is a safe, peer-supported space for you to process your emotions.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us today for a no-cost appointment. We are here for you and are eager to support you on your post-abortion journey.
I know the linked text goes to the source, but could you also list out the sources at the bottom as well. Thanks
