After Abortion

Abortion changes your life. If you are one of the millions of women who have had an abortion, you know that to be true. You may feel profoundly affected as soon as you have the abortion procedure, or it may take months, years, and for some even decades to come to terms with the full emotional impact of an abortion. The smallest things can trigger an emotional reaction, from a baby’s heartbeat on a sonogram, seeing a child that would be about the same age as yours, or even the anniversary date of your abortion. When these feelings surface, many women experience pain related to their abortion choice, and it is often referred to as post abortion trauma.

“Going through your post abortion counseling I know I am forgiven and can move on in my life.”

Carolyn’s Place recognizes that abortion is a traumatic event and recovery can be difficult. We offer customized programs to help you recover and heal.

Read Leslie’s Story

What is post abortion trauma?

A woman faced with an unplanned pregnancy experiences a tremendous amount of fear and anxiety. Often she will seek the fastest solution to her troubles, an abortion, even though it may not coincide with her moral beliefs. She may decide this alone or feel pressured into having an abortion. Once the procedure is over, she may feel relieved that the situation is behind her. However, any moral or spiritual struggles she felt prior to the abortion may continue to resurface, and eventually most women will start to question the decision they made. This internal conflict consumes emotional energy as the woman tries to ignore these powerful feelings. Some key symptoms of post abortion trauma include:

  • Guilt
  • Anger
  • Abortion Flashbacks
  • Eating Disorders
  • Bonding Issues with Children
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Sexual Dysfunction
  • Alcohol & Drug Abuse
  • Self-Punishing/Degrading Behaviors
  • Suicidal Thoughts
  • Anniversary Grief
  • Relationship Problems
  • Psychological Reactions

If you experience any of these symptoms you don’t need to go through this alone.

We are here to help you at Carolyn’s Place. Post abortion trauma is very real and can be devastating to experience alone. It is very important to seek help and share your feelings with someone who is understanding and supportive. You can find healing from your past. Call us or book an appointment.

Post-abortive support and healing for men

It is hard to understand that a woman has all the rights over the unborn child, and can choose to have an abortion without the permission of the baby’s father.

Should you find yourself in that situation, please know that there are people that care about you and the loss of your child. Many men suffer post-abortively and we offer a support group to help men deal with the very real loss they are feeling.