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If you’re pregnant and you’re considering abortion, there are some important things to think about first. It’s important to make sure the pregnancy is in the right place, that it is viable, and exactly how far along you are. An ultrasound is the best way to get these answers before an abortion, but even now, one more thing you should start thinking about is abortion aftercare.
Depending on what kind of abortion you get, there are specific medical abortion aftercare instructions to follow. These instructions should be given to you by your provider. However, there is another aspect to abortion aftercare: your emotional and mental well-being.
Abortion has been linked to specific physical, social, and psychological side effects. Some women experience lower self-esteem, nightmares, guilt, and regret. Some symptoms can be more severe. Abortion is also linked to eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).
The most common psychological effect of abortion is depression. A study found that 60% of women experience depression after an abortion. But this isn’t just an American problem. Another study showed that 34.5% of women globally experience post abortion depression.
Let’s look at the numbers:
Why is post-abortion care so important?
Due to the widespread nature of post-abortive depression and anxiety, research suggest that providers need to encourage and prioritize the provision of abortion aftercare. This includes emotional support and post-abortion counseling.
There is strong research showing that women who experience Post Abortion Stress Syndrome can relive the memories of the abortion, experience insomnia, and have nightmares. Women may also struggle around the anniversary of the abortion or on the due date. Additional problems may include anger outbursts, trouble concentrating, and self-harm.
If you find that you are struggling with any of these issues after an abortion, you are not alone. There are many women who feel the same way. There are support groups and counselors that specialize in abortion aftercare and counseling.
If you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant and you don’t know what your next steps are, please give Alcove Health a call. If you have already had an abortion and would like to be connected with abortion aftercare counseling, we can help with that here, too.
We offer pregnancy testing, options consultations, ultrasounds, and STI testing; all at no cost. Call or click here to schedule your free and confidential appointment today.
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