Post-Abortive Symptoms

Post-Abortion Syndrome is a form of post-traumatic stress disorder. The process of making an abortion choice, experiencing the procedure and living with the grief, pain and regret is certainly, at it's very core, traumatic. As with any trauma, individuals often try to "forget" the ordeal and deny or ignore any pain that may result. Many simply don't relate their distress to the abortion experience. At some point, however, memories resurface and the truth of this loss can no longer be denied. During these moments, the pain of post-abortion syndrome reveals itself in the hearts of millions of lives.

Following abortion, many women experience initial relief. The perceived crisis is over and life returns to normal. For many women, however, the crisis is not over. Months and even years later, significant problems can develop.

The Emotional and Psychological Impact Women who have experienced abortion may develop the following symptoms:

Anger/Rage
Alcohol/Drug Abuse
Anxiety
Depression
Eating disorder
Intimacy Issues/Sexual dysfunctions
Shame/Secrecy
Low Self-Esteem
Denial
Isolation
Inability to Forgive
Regret/Guilt/ Emotional Pain
Nightmares/Flashbacks/Anniversary Syndrome
Suicide attempts/completions
Anxiety over fertility and childbearing issues

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms there is compassionate support designed to help women and men work through these feelings. You are not alone.

If you wish to begin the healing process from a past abortion or abortions there are classes and mentoring available for you.  Deciding to seek help may be one of the toughest decisions you have to make, but it may be one of the best.

This information is intended for general education purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice.