How Can I Recover Emotionally After an Abortion?

August 19, 2023

Abortion looks different for everyone. Some women struggle emotionally (difficulty having healthy relationships), and some women struggle mentally (difficulty thinking clearly and making positive decisions). For those who do suffer mentally, the road to healing can feel long and complicated—even impossible. 

The good news is that recovery is possible. Take comfort in the fact that there are resources for you. This isn’t the end of your journey; it’s just the beginning. 

How May I Feel Afterwards?

You may have many questions after an abortion, including how you’ll feel. In addition to possibly experiencing side effects like bleeding and cramping, you may have to confront difficult emotions. According to the National Institutes of Health, women may experience mental health effects after an abortion. Abortion procedures are associated with higher rates of mental illness. 

Abortion can be considered a traumatic event, which means you may struggle with negative memories or flashbacks. Additionally, some women experience grief, depression, anxiety, feelings of loss, and even suicidal ideation. 

Though this reaction isn’t guaranteed, it is more likely to happen if you have already been diagnosed with a mental health disorder or have been influenced by other factors, such as pressure from family or friends to abort. 

How Can I Help Myself Heal?

While there are self-care activities to engage in to help yourself during the healing process, you must seek help from an experienced counselor or therapist. Some are specially trained to help post-abortive women manage their emotions. 

In addition to receiving counseling, you can often find post-abortion recovery programs at your local pregnancy center. Heart to Heart PRC offers no-cost and confidential post-abortion counseling sessions to help you process your emotions and begin your recovery journey. 

There are other ways you can take care of yourself during this time:

• Spend time outdoors.
• Cook your favorite meal or snack. 
• Spend time with friends and family. 
• Practice deep breathing exercises. 
• Consider journaling to process your emotions. 
• Take a weekend or day trip to a relaxing place. 

There is Hope

If you’ve had an abortion, know that we see you. We’ll be by your side as you navigate this difficult time. Heart to Heart PRC is a medical facility with nurses available to help you. 

Contact us today to schedule an appointment. You don’t have to do this alone.