What Are the Mental Health Effects of Abortion?

If you’ve recently discovered an unexpected pregnancy and are considering abortion, it’s essential to weigh the potential risks. It’s not just about your physical health but also your mental well-being. For some women, the experience of abortion can bring about mental health challenges that may be triggered by the procedure.

Understanding the potential mental health effects of abortion can help you make an informed decision and seek support if needed.

Pre-Existing Risk Factors

Feeling pressured to have an abortion is one of the most significant risk factors for experiencing negative mental health outcomes afterward. According to research, about 75% of women who had an abortion reported feeling at least subtly pressured into the decision.

These women often experienced emotional challenges, including:

Shame
Guilt
Regret
Self-hatred
Feelings of worthlessness or being unworthy of love
Low self-esteem
Anxiety

Beyond external pressure, other pre-existing conditions can heighten the risk of mental health challenges after an abortion:

When a woman feels like she has no support for her pregnancy
When the pregnancy was wanted or meaningful
Factors such as low self-esteem and lack of confidence
Prior mental health issues

Potential Mental Health Effects

For those who may be more vulnerable because of past mental health struggles, feeling pressured, or not having enough support, abortion can lead to a variety of emotional and mental health challenges.

Depending on the person and their situation, these effects might show up right after the procedure or even months or years later. Some common challenges people face include:

Anxiety and depression
Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
Substance abuse as a coping mechanism
Post-traumatic symptoms
Sleep disturbances or disorders

Find Support Today

At RealOptions Obria Medical Clinics, we provide comprehensive reproductive healthcare to help you make informed decisions about your well-being. For those navigating post-abortion challenges, we also offer reproductive loss support to address emotional and mental health needs.

As a Medi-Cal and presumptive eligibility provider, RealOptions Obria Medical Clinics offers services with or without insurance. Our services are low to no cost, ensuring you have access to the care and resources you deserve.

*If you are concerned about your financial ability to pay for a service, you may be eligible for a state-funded financial aid program that would provide services for you at no cost.

400 30th St #401
Oakland, CA 94609
(510) 891-9998

1671 The Alameda #101
San Jose, CA
(408) 978-9310

12 N White Rd
San Jose, CA
(408) 272-5577

33523 Western Ave.
Union City, CA 94857
(510) 487-4357

Disclaimer: We do not refer for or provide abortion services at our clinics. All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing. This website and blog does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Content from this website and blog is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. The information provided on this website is intended for general understanding only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice.