An abortion is the intentional ending of a pregnancy so it doesn’t result in the birth of the child. Approximately 24% of all pregnancies (excluding spontaneous miscarriages) currently end in abortion.
It is highly sensitive area and, more than anything, women who have had an abortion need compassion understanding and love.
Some women may have been coerced into an abortion by an abusive partner or family member. Some women may have had financial or relationship problems and thought best to terminate the pregnancy. Some women may already have children and returned to work so it would be too much strain on the family. Some women may have been raped. Some women may have used unreliable contraception, or the contraception failed. Some women have been told their baby had a genetic defect that was incompatible with life. Some women may have been pressured by their family or partner to end the pregnancy. Some women may have made the choice independently and have few or no regrets.
Every woman’s story is different. However, they all deserve our respect, support and encouragement particularly if it is a decision they are struggling to come to terms with. A past investigation by the BBC discovered that after three years 75% of women who at first were relieved after having an abortion, felt regret. In addition, women who have had an abortion are around 6 times more likely to have suicidal feelings and 8 times more likely to experience depression. While this is not true for everyone, we understand that women who do need support following an abortion need kindness and to be given the chance to process their emotions and to heal.
Please reach out if you need support.
A story of recovery
Growing up in a Christian Church I never imagined I would face an unwanted pregnancy. Finding myself pregnant shortly after starting a new relationship, I ended my pregnancy through abortion in secret as I thought it would bring shame on the family. Relief however soon turned to regret and I became depressed crying night after night knowing I had made a mistake. Still, I told no one.
Four years later through speaking to a person I was finally able to work through my feelings and let go of the shame and guilt I had felt surrounding my abortion. I was able to understand why I made that decision at the time and able to forgive myself. As time went by, I was able to see myself through God’s eyes again and reconnect with my faith.
Be encouraged to reach out to other women to find support following abortion.
Should this have triggered any emotions here are some services to contact which may help.
Other – https://babyloss-awareness.org