Having an abortion is a deeply personal decision. Your reasons and your experience are unique to you. No one can predict how a woman will react after an abortion, but one thing is true–at least some women do feel sadness and regret after an abortion.
Take heart; healing is available. At Pathways PRC, you can receive the time and support needed to process your experience and feelings. Make a free, confidential appointment today to talk with a Pathways team member.
Is Abortion Regret a Real Thing?
Although most women report feeling relieved immediately following their abortion, some begin feeling sad or guilty within weeks, months, or even years. If that’s your experience, know that you are not alone.
Read the words of an anonymous Reddit user:
“I am struggling to come to terms with the regret I feel after undergoing a medical abortion at six weeks pregnant. The overwhelming desire to have had that child is causing me significant emotional distress, leading to daily tears.”
One study determined that the abortion experience directly contributes to mental health problems for at least some women. Abortion regret is real, and many women have felt it.
What Does It Mean to Give Myself Grace?
Giving yourself grace means showing yourself kindness. You are taking care of yourself physically and emotionally. A Psychology Today article lists these five ways that you can show yourself kindness:
- Practice Using Kinder Language. Positive, encouraging self-talk makes a big difference in how you perceive yourself and your situation.
- Take Care of Your Body. Eating healthy meals, exercising regularly, and sleeping well will help your physical and emotional health.
- Permit Yourself to Rest. Resting is more than sleep. It’s setting healthy boundaries and taking a break to replenish.
- Practice Gratitude. Be thankful for the good things in your life. Loving family or friends, a kind word from a co-worker, or just a smile from the check-out lady at the grocery store can change your outlook.
- Ask for Help. This is the most important thing you can do. Putting words to your experience and speaking with someone who understands what you are going through will genuinely make a difference.
Pathways PRC Wants to Help You
Your feelings are valid. Don’t try to push them down or discount them. Regretting your abortion is a legitimate response.
Healing is possible, although there is never a quick fix. Take the time that you need to find relief. Meet with one of our team members and feel peace again.
To learn more about our post-abortion support, make an appointment at Pathways today. We are here for you.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.