Some women experience a tremendous sense of relief, while others may have feelings of guilt, anger or profound sadness. For most women these feelings gradually improve and cease to be after a short period of time; however, for a small percentage, they may become much more pronounced or serious and for a far longer period of time. The more certain a woman is about her decision to terminate her pregnancy, the less her chances will be of developing emotional or psychological problems. The same holds true for women who have friends and/or family to provide support before, during and after this emotionally trying time.
Emotional problems following an abortion tend to be more prevalent among women who have been previously diagnosed with depression, anxiety disorders or other mental health issues. Also noted at higher risk of developing depression are teenagers, separated or divorced women, and women with a history of more than one abortion. It is not unusual for a woman to experience a range of often contradictory emotions after having an abortion, just as it would not be unusual for a woman who carried her unintended pregnancy to term. There is no "right" way to feel after an abortion. Feelings of happiness, sadness, anxiety grief or relief are common. Providing women with an outlet for discussing their feelings is the first step toward the process of achieving emotional well being following an abortion.
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Most experts agree that the negative feelings a woman may have after an abortion may be due to a negative reaction by her partner, friends or family