Finding Peace: Processing Your Abortion Experience

Finding Peace: Processing Your Abortion Experience

Every person's journey through a medical abortion is unique. Research consistently shows that having a wanted abortion doesn't increase risks of depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts. However, the emotional landscape can be complex, and your feelings - whatever they may be - are valid parts of your healing journey.

Sometimes, the emotions that surface after an abortion can take us by surprise. Research shows that while about 39.5% of people experience nightmares and 37.5% report feelings of guilt, these reactions often stem from external stigma rather than the procedure itself. You might have expected to feel primarily relief but find yourself experiencing moments of sadness, or vice versa. This complexity is natural - our emotions rarely follow a predictable path.

What If I Feel Nothing At All? Some people experience emotional numbness or detachment after their abortion. This can be a normal protective response, particularly if you've had to stay strong through challenging circumstances. Like the stages of grief - denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance - emotional processing happens in its own time and order.

What About My Spiritual Or Cultural Beliefs? Many people find themselves processing their experience through their spiritual or cultural lens. This reflection is a natural part of the healing journey. You might find comfort in certain rituals or practices, or need to find new ways to connect with your beliefs. This can be a time of significant personal growth and understanding.

How Do I Move Forward? Moving forward doesn't mean forgetting or "getting over it." Instead, it means finding ways to integrate this experience into your life story in a way that feels authentic to you. This might involve:

• Creating personal rituals of acknowledgment
• Writing letters to yourself
• Finding meaningful ways to honor your journey
• Making peace with your decision
• Connecting with others who understand

Remember, healing isn't linear - it's more like a spiral, where you might revisit certain feelings but from a different perspective each time. Research shows that most people process their experiences through various emotional stages, and each person's timeline is unique. Be patient with yourself, and know that professional support is always available if you need it.

The information provided on this website by Aunty Jane in any format or medium, are for general information purposes only and are not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. The information made available by Aunty Jane do not provide personalised medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. To the extent permitted by law, Aunty Jane disclaims all liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information provided. For specific medical concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.