Sometimes people talk about abortion as if the experience ends the minute the procedure is over or after the medication has been taken. In reality, the emotional side of abortion continues long after.
Some women feel relieved, some feel sad, and many experience a rollercoaster of emotions that change day-to-day, sometimes hour by hour.
At Metropolitan Medical Associates, we know that the emotions that come after an abortion vary from person to person. We believe every woman deserves the space and support to process the experience in their own way.
Emotional support after an abortion is extremely important. Here’s why and where you can go to find it.
Start With Someone You Trust
More often than not, the most helpful support doesn’t come from formal counseling or therapy. Instead, it’s sometimes something as simple as sitting outside with someone who knows you well.
A trusted friend, family member, or partner can give you a safe place to talk without feeling like you have to talk and explain every detail.
At the same time, you also don’t need someone to give you advice or to validate your decision. Sometimes just having someone who can listen to you and acknowledge your feelings goes a long way.
If you don’t have a person in your life who you feel safe talking to about abortion, that’s okay too! There are many local support groups, and professionals, who we can refer you to.
What If You Need More Than a Listening Ear?
There are times when talking with someone you trust just isn’t enough. A therapist or counselor can give you a private, safe space to sort through complicated feelings without judgement.
Remember, you don’t have to be in crisis to seek counseling. Emotional support after an abortion is a necessity!
Maybe you’re struggling to put your emotions into words. Maybe you feel guilty about your decision. Or maybe you simply want to talk to someone who is neutral to the situation.
Our team knows that professional support can be very helpful, especially if emotional symptoms feel overwhelming or never-ending.
Seeking mental health care doesn’t mean you made the wrong decision. Instead, it means you’re taking the steps to take proper care of yourself.
Our Team Can Be Part of Your Support System
Emotional support doesn’t have to begin and end with a friend or a therapist. One of our healthcare providers can also be an important resource during your recovery.
At Metropolitan Medical Associates, our post-abortion care includes guidance about recovery. We also encourage you to contact our care team with any questions or concerns you have.
In fact, we offer patient-centered, nonjudgmental, and confidential support throughout your journey.
Remember, No Feeling Is Wrong
One of the biggest misconceptions about abortion recovery is that everyone is supposed to have the same emotional response. But, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Feeling sad doesn’t mean you regret your choice. Feeling relieved doesn’t mean you don’t care. And feeling a mixture of emotions doesn’t mean something is wrong with you.
Your circumstances are yours, just as your reasons for having an abortion are unique to you. The same is true of your emotional response.
So whether you’re feeling peace, sadness, grief, or all of the above, give yourself permission to feel and go through the motions.
Remember, there’s no prize for going through it alone.
You Deserve Support and Care Throughout Your Abortion Journey
If your emotions start to feel overwhelming or continue without improving, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Our team at Metropolitan Medical Associates is here to help, whether you need someone to talk to or a referral to a therapist.
Contact us at 201-429-9748 today or book an appointment online below and get the emotional support you need after an abortion.