Importance of After Abortion Support
There have been various studies on the psychological effects of abortion on women. Although post-abortion traumatic stress syndrome is not officially recognized by some experts, others have no doubts that it is a serious, widespread problem. Many of them have conducted extensive research proving their claim that most women require after-abortion support.
What are the possible emotional side effects of abortion?
Whether we call it Post-Abortion Stress Syndrome or not, it is a fact that abortion can have varied emotional effects on women. Some women report a sense of relief after having an abortion. For some, it takes a long time to start showing symptoms. In fact, emotional and psychological effects after having an abortion are more prevalent than physical side effects.
Emotional side effects can range from mild regret to more serious problems such as depression.
According to the American Pregnancy Association (APA), potential emotional side effects of abortion may include:
- Regret
- Anger
- Guilt
- Shame
- Sense of loneliness and isolation
- Loss of self-confidence
- Insomnia or nightmares
- Relationship issues
- Suicidal thoughts and feelings
- Eating disorders
- Depression
- Anxiety
Why is After Abortion Support necessary?
It is vital that a woman facing a crisis or unplanned pregnancy receives support from family, friends and trained professionals. A strong support system is needed by all women who experience the side effects of having an abortion. Furthermore, those women who have been coerced, forced or persuaded to get an abortion need assistance and encouragement. They need to feel that they are not alone and that it is okay to grieve. In fact, they need to know that they can talk to people who they can trust and will journey with them through this crisis.
The goal of social support which includes family, friends, counsellors is to decrease stress. For the woman, to know that she is not alone will help her to cope better with the reality of her feelings towards her abortion. Support can be emotional or financial. Some women who resort to abortion do so because of poverty and the fear of not being able to raise a child. What’s more, support groups may also come in the form of a network of people who have had the same experience. These networks can provide education and an opportunity to be with others who can truly understand.
It is crucial for every woman to realize that she is not alone. A strong support system can make it is easier for her to endure any burden when she knows there are people who are willing to support her. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. On the contrary, it is a sign that a person is brave enough to seek healing for herself.
Gianna Care Post-Abortion Support
Gianna Care is composed of trained client advocates, counsellors, nurses and doctors willing to help. We provide one-to-one post-abortion counselling and a monthly post-abortion support group. If so desired we also refer women to Rachel’s Vineyard, a group aiming to help women deal with grief after abortion.
If you or someone you know wishes to seek healing after their abortion, they contact us by ringing our 24/7 helpline : +353 1532 2116 or via Live Chat on our website. You can also send us an email by clicking the link below:
