Post-abortion

Few women readily choose to have an abortion. But the position they find themselves in when facing an unplanned pregnancy can make them feel there is no alternative. The pressure of circumstances can seem overwhelming and there is often a lack of support at this critical time.

Following an abortion, a woman's immediate feeling is often one of relief. It seems like the problem is solved and life is back to normal. But for many the inital relief is replaced with a variety of emotional side-effects which they had not expected.

These symptoms can surface even years after the abortion and may include:

• depression
• recurrent dreams of the abortion or the unborn child
• feelings of guilt and remorse
• a sense of emptiness and loss
• relationship difficulties
• anger and rage at husband, partner, family, friends or even other children
• eating disorders, alcohol or drug abuse
• feelings of helplessness and isolation
• low self-worth
• emotional 'numbness'

Most women have little alternative but to bury these painful feelings in order to survive. The abortion has often been a secret, and if family or friends do know they are often uncertain how to react or how to talk about it without hurting her feelings. The woman herself may also ferar revealing her feelings in case she is judged or misunderstood. Ultimately this buried pain can lead to a condition called Post Abortion Syndrome, a recognised stress problem, and can interfere significantly in a woman's life.

If you are suffering follwing an abortion,
is there help available?
YES!

Healing emotional damage following an abortion is possible ... and the process starts as soon as you are willing to admit a problem exists. Many women have already been helped to come to terms with their decision to have an abortion through one-to-one counselling using a structured course entitled 'Journey to Freedom'.