Every woman’s abortion experience is unique based on her physical and mental health. How you respond to abortion is affected by many things, like how far along you are in your pregnancy, if someone is pressuring you to abort, or your current emotional health.

It’s difficult to tell how abortion might affect you, but we can give you some clues to think about.

What Does Research Say?

A study of various abortion research published by the National Institute of Health reported:

• Abortion is consistently associated with elevated rates of mental illness compared to women without a history of abortion.
• The abortion experience directly contributes to mental health problems for, at least, some women.
• There are risk factors, such as pre-existing mental illness, that identify women at greatest risk of mental health problems after an abortion.

As the study suggests, some women experience more significant mental health problems than others.

What Are Some Mental Health Issues?

Some of the mental health issues some women experience after their abortion include the following:

• Deep feelings of loss
• Regret
• Shame
• Guilt
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Insecurity
• Self-destructive behavior

How Do I Know If I’ll Have Problems?

Talk with your healthcare provider before choosing abortion. Review your medications (if any) and overall physical health. In addition, talk with them about how you’re feeling emotionally.

Are you under a lot of stress or feeling anxious? Is someone forcing you to abort? The Mayo Clinic recommends you confirm your pregnancy with a pregnancy test and ultrasound. It is estimated that as many as 26% of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage early in pregnancy.

Because it takes your body time to return to pre-pregnancy hormone levels, it is still possible to get a positive pregnancy test result even though you have miscarried.

How Can Willowbrook Assist Me?

At Willowbrook, we offer no-cost, confidential pregnancy testing. If your test is positive, there is a possibility we can recommend you for an ultrasound.

We can also discuss your current situation to determine the best pregnancy option for you. Our caring advocates are ready to help you. Although we do not perform or refer for abortion, we can provide you with factual information.

Don’t hesitate to get the information you need. If you would like a no-cost Pre-Abortion Screening in the St. Joseph or Cameron area, please contact us. Let us know how we can assist you. You matter to us.