I Already Have Mental Health Problems. Could Abortion Make It Worse?

If you already live with depression, anxiety, or another mental health condition, an unexpected pregnancy can bring additional questions and concerns.

You may be wondering whether abortion could affect your mental health, whether continuing the pregnancy could affect you, or how your existing symptoms might change during this time.

There is no simple answer that applies to every woman. Your mental health history, current circumstances, support system, and feelings about the pregnancy can all matter when you are making a pregnancy decision.

HeartReach Center can also offer you confidential support throughout this period. We provide no-cost pregnancy testing, limited obstetric ultrasounds, and mentoring about your options. 

We will never judge, pressure, or rush you into making a decision. We are here to listen and get you the information you need. Make your appointment at our center today. 

Understanding the Facts

Research has examined the potential effects of abortion on mental health. One meta-analysis of 22 studies found that women who had abortions experienced an 81% higher risk of mental health problems compared with women who had not had abortions.

A separate study of 325 women who had abortions found that those with a history of mental disorders were more likely to report greater doubt before their abortion, greater emotional burden surrounding the pregnancy and abortion, and more negative post-abortion emotions than women without a history of mental disorders.

Therefore, your existing mental health and personal circumstances are important to consider when making a pregnancy decision.

You Know Yourself Best

Before making a decision, consider how you might feel about having an abortion and how the experience could affect you emotionally.

It may help to ask yourself: How do I feel about the idea of having an abortion? Could having an abortion affect my mental or emotional well-being?

Your feelings, values, and circumstances matter when considering your pregnancy decision. If you feel pressured by someone else or are struggling with conflicting feelings about abortion, give yourself a chance to work through those feelings rather than making a decision based only on what someone else wants.

This is your pregnancy and your decision. 

Seeking Support

You do not have to work through these questions alone.

Consider talking with someone you trust who will listen without pushing you toward a particular decision. This might be a friend, family member, counselor, or another supportive person.

If you are experiencing severe depression, thoughts of harming yourself, or feel unable to keep yourself safe, seek immediate professional help or emergency care.

Understanding Your Other Options

You deserve to understand all of your pregnancy options.

Your options include abortion, parenting, or adoption. Learning about each option can help you consider how different choices may fit with your mental health, relationships, finances, support system, and future goals.

If you choose to continue your pregnancy, there is support available. Alaska offers resources for single mothers and low-income families, including assistance with food, healthcare, childcare, and heating. HeartReach Center also offers free parenting classes and one-to-one mentorship, where parents can earn “Parent Bucks” through classes to use in the Market for baby furnishings and toys, while free essentials such as diapers, wipes, formula, clothing, and blankets are also available.

You should also confirm important details about your pregnancy before making a decision. A pregnancy test can confirm that hCG is detected, but an ultrasound can provide information about how far along you are, the pregnancy’s location, and whether the pregnancy is viable.

Having more information can help you understand your health and options.

You Are Not Alone

You might be scared of what this pregnancy could mean for you. You might be worried about your mental health getting worse, or wondering whether you can handle everything that comes with another major decision. You don’t have to figure it all out today.

At HeartReach Center, you can come exactly as you are. You can talk about what’s going through your head, ask the questions you’re afraid to ask, and explore your pregnancy and options. Our pregnancy services are confidential and provided at no cost.

You don’t have to carry all of this by yourself. Contact us today to make an appointment.

HeartReach Center does not provide or refer for abortions.

All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.