Let’s be honest. Abortion is celebrated in our culture. People have marched, debated, and fought for the right to abortion. Celebrities endorse political candidates who support it. Many women claim that their abortions helped them succeed in life. Women who face abortion trauma may feel like they have little room to speak.
If you’re experiencing after abortion trauma, you’re not alone and your feelings matter too. Keep reading to learn more about how to cope with your trauma and where you can find support.
Does Abortion Cause Trauma?
Every woman is different. Some women say that they never faced any trauma after their abortions. However, studies have found that women can experience trauma symptoms after abortion, such as[1]:
- Nightmares about babies
- Insomnia
- Grief
- Anger
- Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, and shame
- Attempting to block out the experience
- Avoiding things that trigger memories about the abortion
- Substance abuse
- Suicidal thoughts
Additionally, one study found that having a surgical abortion later in pregnancy can increase the risk of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).[2]
If you have the urge to harm yourself or experiencing suicidal thoughts, please call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 to get help immediately.
What Causes Abortion Trauma?
Abortion trauma can be caused by many different factors. Some examples include:
- Physical pain and side effects. Abortions can be painful. The procedure itself and the physical side effects can even feel scary at times. This can cause lasting, painful memories.
- Going Through It Alone. The abortion pill causes a great amount of physical pain and bleeding. Going through it alone at home, without the guidance and support of a healthcare professional, can be very traumatic. Additionally, many women are shocked to find that they don’t just bleed heavily or see a “clump of cells.” Unfortunately, the baby is usually intact and looks more like a baby than they expected.
- External pressure. If you were pressured into the abortion (whether by a partner, family member, or someone you trusted), it may leave you feeling powerless, betrayed, or resentful. This lack of autonomy in decision-making can amplify emotional distress.
- Personal and religious beliefs. Abortion can conflict with personal and religious beliefs. Some women feel judged when the subject is discussed negatively (whether at church or family gatherings). It can be isolating to feel like you can’t talk to anyone in your community about your experience.
How to Cope with Abortion Trauma
Abortion trauma doesn’t have to derail your life. There are ways to cope, heal, and move forward. Here are some tips to help you navigate your emotional recovery:
1. Acknowledge and Accept Your Emotions
There’s no “right” way to feel after an abortion. Don’t try to force yourself to feel a certain way or move on immediately. You may experience a range of conflicting emotions after an abortion—and that’s ok. Acknowledge and accept your emotions as they come, without judging yourself.
2. Practice Self-Care
Don’t give up on yourself. You matter and you deserve to recover from your abortion experience. Practice self-care regularly to support your emotional healing.
Self-care can look like…
- Resting, staying hydrated, and eating well to manage any after abortion symptoms
- Taking a break from social media to avoid emotional triggers
- Taking time to do things that bring you joy
- Confiding in people you trust and leaning on them for support
- Focusing on your faith
- Talking to a therapist or joining an after abortion support group
3. Get Individual Support or Join a Support Group
Self-isolation only deepens guilt and shame. Getting support after an abortion allows you to unpack all of the difficult emotions you’ve been carrying in a loving, compassionate environment.
Participants in our programs have shared how beneficial it is to attend small groups and treasure their time with others who have walked the same path as them.
4. Give Yourself Time
As you navigate your emotional recovery, it’s important to understand that healing isn’t linear. You will have good days and bad days. Memories may resurface months or even years later. Be patient with yourself in those moments and take all the time you need to heal.
After Abortion Support in Durango, Colorado
At Pathways PRC, we believe that no one should have to face abortion trauma alone. If you want more support on your healing journey, we are here to help. In-person and online options are available.
You are not alone, and healing is within reach. Reach out to Pathways PRC today to learn more about our after abortion support program.
Please be aware that Pathways PRC does not provide or refer for abortion services.
Sources
- Shuping, M. (2016). Counterpoint: Long-Lasting Distress After Abortion. South Carolina Legislature. https://www.scstatehouse.gov/CommitteeInfo/SenateMedicalAffairsCommittee/Shuping%20Long-lasting%20Distress%20after%20Abortion.pdf
- Priscilla K. Coleman, Catherine T. Coyle, Vincent M. Rue. Late-Term Elective Abortion and Susceptibility to Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms. Journal of Pregnancy, vol. 2010, Article ID 130519, 10 pages, 2010. https://doi.org/10.1155/2010/130519.