Initially after an abortion many women can experience a sense of relief
that there pregnancy has come to an end and that they can get on with
their lives. Others are deeply traumatised by the procedure and feel an
immediate sense of regret. Feelings of guilt, grief and anger are very
common after an abortion however for a bigger group of women the
effects are much deeper and longer lasting and they develop post
abortion stress.
Post Abortion Stress
You may have post-abortion stress if you are experiencing the following
symptoms
- A feeling of distance from or, conversely, over-protectiveness of
existing children.
- Inability to maintain normal routine.
- Depressed feelings stronger than 'a little sadness'.
- Flashbacks.
- Tearfulness.
- Relationship tensions or breakdown resulting from the abortion.
- Being preoccupied with the abortion
- Feeling the need to 'replace' the baby.
- Difficulty being near other babies or pregnant women
- Find it hard to sleep
If you are experiencing these symptoms you would benefit from our post
abortion support programme called "The Journey". You should also make
an appointment with your G.P who will be able make a medical assessment
of your well being and provide you with support.
The Journey Support Programme
Our trained advisors can assist you to work through your feeling by
taking you though a programme known as 'The Journey' . This programme
is worked through at your pace in one to one sessions with your
advisor. 'The Journey' aims to release you from the pain and grief that
having an abortion has caused you and to give you hope for the future.
If you are feeling depressed or have thoughts of harming yourself we
strongly recommend you seek immediate medical help from your G.P.
