Effect of Abortion

In 1973, the United States Supreme Court struck down every federal, state, and local law regulating or restricting the practice of abortion. This action was based on the premise that the states no longer had any need to regulate abortion because the advances of modern medicine had now made abortion "relatively safe."

Therefore, the Justices concluded, it is unconstitutional to prevent physicians from providing abortions as a "health" service to women.34

National abortion policy is built upon this judicial "fact" that abortion is a "safe" procedure. If this "fact" is found to be false, then national policy toward abortion must be re-evaluated. Indeed, if it is found that abortion may actually be dangerous to health of women, there is just cause for governments to regulate or prohibit abortion in order to protect their citizens. This is especially true since over 1.5 million women undergo abortions each year.

Abortion can emotionally affect each woman differently. Some women report a sense of relief after having an abortion. The reasons for relief also vary from woman to woman.Emotional and psychological effects following abortion are more common than physical side effects and can range from mild regret to more serious complications such as depression. It is important to discuss these risks with a trained professional who can address your questions and concerns. The emotional side effects of having an abortion are just as real as physical side effects.

The following is a list of potential emotional and psychological risks of having an abortion. The intensity or duration of these effects will vary from one person to another.

Potential side effects include:

• Relationship issues
• Suicidal thoughts and feelings
• Eating disorders
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Regret
• Anger
• Guilt
• Shame
• Sense of loneliness or isolation
• Loss of self confidence
• Insomnia or nightmares

Recommendations For Someone Considering An Abortion

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

Avoid Isolation – If you are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, you might have the tendency to withdraw from others to keep the matter a secret and/or to face the issue alone. Although it can be difficult, try to stay connected with family and friends who can support you. Too much isolation under these circumstances can lead to depression.

Evaluate Your Circumstances – See the situations listed previously regarding individuals who are more likely to experience one or more side effects. Discuss your situation with someone who can help you give you perspective and understanding.

Avoid Pressure – Avoid people who are pressuring you you to do what they think is best. Whether you opt to parent, choose adoption, or have an abortion, you are the one who is going to have to live with your choice.

Talk to Others – See if you can find someone who has gone through an unplanned pregnancy or had an abortion to find out what it was like for them.