Possible Emotional Side Effects

The emotional side effects following an abortion will vary from woman to woman. Some women report relief after an abortion. The question that most people ask is, “What are the potential emotional and psychological risks following an abortion?”

Emotional and psychological effects are more common than the potential physical side effects and they can range from mild regret to more serious complications like depression. It is important to talk through these risks with a trained professional who can address your questions and discuss your concerns.

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What are the potential emotional and psychological sides effects following an abortion?

The following is a list of emotional and psychological side effects that may be experienced following an abortion. The intensity or duration of these effects will vary from person to person. Here is a list of potential side effects that may be of concern to you:

  • Regret
  • Anger
  • Guilty feelings
  • Shame
  • Loneliness or isolation
  • Impaired self confidence
  • Insomnia or nightmares
  • Relationship issues
  • Suicidal thoughts and feelings
  • Eating disorders
  • Depression
  • Anxiety

Are there individuals who are more prone to experience emotional or psychological problems?

It is possible for anyone to experience an emotional or psychological side effect following an abortion. Women commonly report that the abortion procedure affected them more than they thought it would. However, there are individuals who are more susceptible to experience some type of emotional or psychological struggle. Below is a list of circumstances that may increase a woman’s chances of having an emotional or psychological side effect:

  • Individuals with previous emotional or psychological issues
  • Individuals who have been coerced, forced or persuaded to get an abortion
  • Individuals with religious beliefs that conflict with abortion
  • Individuals with moral or ethical positions that conflict with abortion
  • Individuals who obtain an abortion in later stages of their pregnancy
  • Individuals without support from significant others or their partner
  • Obtaining an abortion for genetic or fetal abnormalities

What are the recommendations for someone considering an abortion?

Get Help – Probably the most important thing you can do when facing an unplanned pregnancy is to talk with trained professionals who can answer your questions and discuss your circumstances with you.

Avoid Isolation – If you are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, you may have the tendency to withdraw from others, keep things a secret, and try to face it alone. Although it may be difficult, make sure you are staying connected with family and friends who are there to support you. Isolation under these circumstances can lead to depression.

Evaluate Your Circumstances – Take a look and see if your circumstance includes any of the situations noted above under those who are more prone to experience a side effect. Talk through this with someone who can help you understand what it might mean for you.

Avoid Pressure – Stay away from people who are pressuring you and coercing you to do what they think is best. Whether you parent, place or have an abortion, you are the one who will have to live with your choice.

Talk to Others – See if you can find someone who has gone through an unplanned pregnancy or an abortion and find out what it was like for them. Take a moment to ask questions of someone who has been there.

Last Updated: 10/2007

Compiled using information from the following sources:

Adler, Nancy, et al. (2003). “Abortion Among Adolescents.” American Psychologist, 59(3), 211-7.

Adler, Nancy. (1989) University of California at San Francisco, Statement on Behalf of the American Psychological Association Before the Human Resources and Intergovernmental Relations Subcommittee of the Committee on Governmental Operations, U.S. House of Representatives: 130-140.

Adler, Nancy., et al (1990). “Psychological Responses after Abortion.” Science, 248(4951), 41-4.

Dagg, Paul. (1991) “The Psychological Sequelae of Therapeutic Abortion – Denied and Completed.” American Journal of Psychiatry, 148(5), 578-85.

Gilchrist, A., et al. (1995). “Termination of Pregnancy and Psychiatric Morbidity.” British Journal of Psychiatry, 167(2), 243-8.

Kishida, Yakuko. (2001). “Anxiety in Japanese Women After Elective Abortion.” Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, and Neonatal Nursing, 30, 490-5.

Major, Brenda, et al. (1992). “Male Partners’ Appraisals of Undesired Pregnancy and Abortion.” Archives of General Psychiatry, 57(9), 777-84.

Russo, Nancy & Denious, Jean. (2001) “Violence in the Lives of Women Having Abortions: Implications for Practice and Public Policy.” Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, 32(2), 142-50.

Zabin, Laurie, et al. (1989). “When Urban Adolescents Chose Abortion: Effects on Education, Psychological Status, and Subsequent Pregnancy.” Family Planning Perspectives, 21(6), 248-55.

Zolese, G. & Blacker, C. (1992). “The Psychological Complications of Therapeutic Abortion.” British Journal of Psychiatry, 160, 742-9.