How Will Abortion Affect Me Mentally?

Abortion can impact a woman’s physical, mental, and emotional health. While some women will come away from the procedure with only minor side effects, others may experience temporary or life-long struggles with depression and anxiety. 

If you’re struggling with an unplanned pregnancy and considering abortion, keep reading to better understand how an abortion could affect your mental health.

What Is An Abortion?

Women seeking an abortion today typically have two options available: medication abortion or surgical abortion. 

A medication abortion uses two drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol, to stop the pregnancy from growing and expel the tissue from the womb. Medical abortions are typically only used for pregnancies 10 weeks or less gestation.

Surgical abortions are a bit more complicated. Your doctor will begin by opening the cervix and inserting either a suction device or forceps into your uterus. Surgical abortions can take anywhere from 15 minutes to 3 hours to complete since general anesthesia is sometimes required. 

Mental Health Effects Of Abortion

The mental toll abortion can cause has been debated in the past, but all sides agree that certain women are at high risk for short or long-term effects. 

A report from the American Psychological Association’s Task Force on Mental Health concluded that women may experience feelings of sadness, grief, and loss following an abortion. Women with a history of mental illness are at higher risk for experiencing clinical depression or anxiety after a pregnancy termination. 

Preparing For The Future

With these facts in hand, it’s important to take steps to protect your mental and emotional well-being. Before scheduling an abortion, it’s important to speak with your doctor about any mental illness in your past. 

It’s also a good idea to have a strong support system in place where you can openly share your feelings and be encouraged. 

Crisis Pregnancy Center is a safe place to ask questions and receive the medical care you deserve during your unplanned pregnancy. Our medical staff provides no-cost pregnancy confirmation tests, ultrasounds, and education about STDs, fetal development, and more. 

Call our center at 812-366-2019 and schedule an appointment today. You don’t have to take this unplanned journey alone.