Support After Your Abortion
Life After Abortion
Every person’s experience with abortion and the grief that might accompany it is unique. Some people feel emotions immediately, and others may not for months or years later. Still, others may feel nothing at all. We are here to help you regardless of your situation.
After an abortion, some people feel relief, shame, regret, denial, numbness, anger, anxiety, sadness, or depression. Some people feel one or two of these emotions, and some people feel many of these emotions. Your feelings are unique to you, and you are entitled to your emotions surrounding your abortion. You do not have to hide them or be afraid to share.
Whenever you need us, we can help. Contact us today if you need assistance processing these feelings about your abortion.
Family, Friends, and Others Affected by Abortion
Family members, boyfriends, spouses, and friends who have been affected by another person’s abortion choice may feel many of the emotions mentioned here. They may also feel helplessness, regret, and blame. Your feelings surrounding another person’s abortion are important and valid.
No matter how you are processing your abortion or the abortion of someone else, many find it helpful to talk about their experience and feelings in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. For anyone affected by abortion, there is help, healing, and hope available without shame and judgment. You are not alone. No matter where you are in your after-abortion journey, it is never too late or too soon to discuss your decision with someone who understands and is willing to listen.
Help, Healing, and Hope
We are here to provide support and care after your abortion experience. Everything is confidential, and no one will be notified that you have contacted us. We can even assist you in finding support outside of your local area if that is more comfortable for you. Your privacy is important to us. As always, all our services are free of charge.
If you choose to discuss your abortion, you will meet confidentially with someone who is trained to support women and men who have been affected by abortion and offer help and compassion. You can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable. You will receive love and support from people who have been in your situation and understand what you are going through.
We are here because we understand the factors that contributed to your abortion choice. We care about your happiness, health, and well-being.
Giving a voice to your abortion experience can change how you view the decision that you made and give you courage to live in your freedom. Contact us today. We are here to help you.
References
Abortion Changes You. (n.d.). Explore emotions. https://www.abortionchangesyou.com/en/healing-pathways/explore-emotions
American Association of Pro-Life Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2019). Abortion and mental health. Practice Bulletin: Evidence Directing Pro-Life Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 7, 1-10. https://aaplog.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/FINAL-Abortion-Mental-Health-PB7.pdf
Drake, K. (2022, July 25). Coping with grief and depression after an abortion. Psych Central. https://psychcentral.com/depression/understanding-abortion-grief-and-the-recovery-process
Louise, K., Due, C., Oxlad, M., & Middleton, P. (2020). Men’s grief following pregnancy loss and neonatal loss: A systematic review and emerging theoretical model. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 20(11). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12884-019-2677-9
Mayo Clinic. (2022, December 13). Complicated grief. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/complicated-grief/symptoms-causes/syc-20360374
Option Line. (n.d.). After abortion support. https://optionline.org/after-abortion-support
Reardon, D. C. & Craver, C. (2021). Effects of pregnancy loss on subsequent postpartum mental health: A prospective longitudinal cohort study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(4), 2179. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18042179
Support After Abortion. (n.d.). Research. https://supportafterabortion.com/resources/research/
Post Abortion Recovery Resources
Forgiven and Set Free
This Bible Study is for women yearning for the peace of God’s forgiveness from a past abortion. With an understanding spirit and a gentle hand, this study guides hurting women to bring their emotional scars “out of the dark past and into His holy light “ where true and lasting healing can take place. All participants and sessions are held in strict confidence.
Project Rachel
Abortion creates a wound in post-abortive women (and men), resulting in spiritual and emotional problems. The Project Rachel ministry assists women and men who have been wounded by abortion to find truth and healing.
If you would like more information, contact Project Rachel at (919) 852-1021 or email Project.Rachel@raldioc.
Silent No Moore
My name is Danielle Smith. When I was 17, I had an abortion. It was very difficult for me. I experienced deep regret and hurt after the abortion and have since then found healing. If you are considering abortion, I urge you to just reach out and talk with me or someone to get any answers to any questions or concerns you may be having. If you have had an abortion, and need healing, or would just like to share some feelings, regret, or hurt that you may be feeling, I would love to talk with you.
Danielle Smith - 910-639-2646
Surrendering the Secret
Welcome to Surrendering the Secret (STS), a ministry designed to help women (and men) heal from the hurt of abortion. Abortion affects people of all walks of life. At STS we, provide resouces for women that have had abortions, and opportunities for others to help support these women. Please follow this link to view a promotional video about the study, and email your local volunteer leader Candace Wicker to schedule a time to talk.
Post Abortive Recovery Resources
Are you struggling from the feelings of guilt and pain over a past abortion? Know that you’re not alone, friend. We would count it a privilege to come alongside you on this journey of healing and forgiveness.
Here at Focus on the Family, our goal is to help individuals and families thrive in Christ—we want to do the same for you. Please join us at: Focus on the Family for more information.