Hundreds of thousands of women regret their abortions, and it is almost expected that women feel some sort of negative feeling towards their decision to abort. The decision to get an abortion is hardly ever easy. Women often report going back and forth, not knowing what the right decision is for them, and after they decide, they often spend time contemplating whether or not they made the right choice.
Abortion Regret
In nearly every study conducted on the mental health of post-abortive women, findings have shown that mental health declines after an abortion procedure. Abortion regret can range from sadness and guilt to a profound sense of loss. For those who do feel regret, it can be an intense and isolating emotion. Women experiencing abortion regret often find themselves questioning their decision, replaying the circumstances that led them to choose abortion. It’s crucial for these women to understand that they are not alone and the road to healing is waiting for them.
Mental Health After an Abortion
The negative mental health effects of abortion have been reported far past the feelings of regret and grief. In one 2011 study, abortion was found to increase depression in women by 37% and increase anxiety in women by 34%. Notably, no research has ever proved that women who receive an abortion benefit from it mentally.
An analysis of state Medicaid data found that, compared to women who give birth, women who have an abortion in their first pregnancy are 3.4 times more likely to experience an increase in outpatient mental health visits and 5.7 times more likely to experience an increase in inpatient admissions.
Women may find themselves grappling with feelings of sadness, anger, or even numbness as they process their grief. These emotions can be confusing, particularly when societal narratives around abortion often downplay or ignore the potential for grief, and the stereotypes around women who get abortions usually prevent post-abortive women from speaking out about their experiences.
The Lasting Effects
One study on post-abortive women reported nightmares, disruptions of daily life, intrusive thoughts, and negative emotions were common following the procedure. While this is a more immediate response to abortion, long-lasting emotional effects have been reported as well. In the same study, women were reported experiencing suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, drug use, worries about future fertility, and decreased self-esteem.
While the majority of women experience some sort of negative emotion tied to their abortion, a lot of women choose to suppress their feelings in order to cope. In a study conducted in 2016, exposure to abortion increased risks for mental disorders by 45%.
Abortions remain incredibly mentally unsafe. The results of a study conducted in 2003 showed that even after 8 years, women who had abortions were 65% more likely to be categorized as “high risk” for clinical depression than women whose pregnancies ended in childbirth. In Finland, women who received an abortion were 3 times more likely to commit suicide than the general population of women.
How is HELP Helping?
Abortion Pill Regret
We as an organization also recognize the prevalence of the abortion pill in our society. Today, the abortion pill accounts for over 60% of all abortions performed in the United States. Because the process uses two pills, and the abortion is not complete until after the second pill is administered, we are able to provide women with another option if they have taken the first pill.
An abortion can sometimes be halted and the baby’s life is able to be saved, but only if the woman acts fast enough. This is often the biggest hurdle in counteracting the abortion pill, as many women don’t even know that there is a way to go back on their decision. It is vital that a woman who is doubting or regretting her decision to take the abortion pill seeks help immediately.
Post Abortion Support
HELP Pregnancy Aid is committed to women and part of that entails the holistic care required after an abortion. Our team is equipped to offer services and referrals to post-abortive women. We also offer a monthly support group called Healing the Hurt that is aimed at helping women bond with one another as they share their joint experience of abortion. This group is not just intended for current or former clients. We believe that everyone should have access to an outlet where they can express their emotions in a safe environment. If you would like to find out more information on Healing the Hurt, you can do so by calling HELP at (616) 459-9139.
Conclusion
Abortion regret and grief are complex emotional responses that are common after undergoing an abortion. Understanding and addressing these emotions is crucial for healing and well-being. By acknowledging the emotional landscape, seeking support, and building resilience, women can find hope and healing.
If you or someone you know is dealing with abortion regret or grief, consider reaching out to HELP. We’d love to help you.
