Although it’s difficult to know exactly how an abortion would affect your mental health, there’s a chance it could negatively impact it.

You are not alone if you’re wondering about how an abortion could affect you mentally. Although an abortion is a physical decision, it can also impact you mentally. Let’s take a look at what the research says.

What Does the Research Say?

One study discovered the following about women who have had abortions:

• 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.

If you are already struggling with your mental health, you may want to talk with a counselor or healthcare professional first, and consider every angle of your issue and this decision.

Did You Know You Have Options?

Often, women feel their only choice for an unexpected pregnancy is an abortion. Whether under pressure from others, out of fear, or due to financial concerns, they move forward without even considering their other options.

However, you have three options: have an abortion, make an adoption plan, or choose to parent. We want you to feel confident about whatever decision you make. Finding out as much as possible about each option will help you.

Gateway Women’s Care offers no-cost Options Consultations to provide helpful information and answer any questions you may have.

Explore Your Goals and Feelings

In addition to thinking through your options, try sitting with your feelings. Often, it’s easy to repress your emotions when they conflict with your desired choice, but this can lead to negative mental health outcomes.

Try journaling or writing down your thoughts. What are your goals? What concerns do you have about each option and your mental health?

Visit Gateway Women’s Care

If you’re struggling emotionally as you consider your pregnancy options, talk with us. We want to help you navigate this challenging time with support and accurate information. You are our priority.

Contact us today. All appointments are no-cost and confidential.