Emotional Consequences of Post Abortion

Noni BeckerArgosy University

Abstract

Twenty-five years ago, there were very strong views about the decision of aborting a fetus or baby. These views were generally negative and judgmental. The effects of these attitudes have affected women in various ways. Today, these views are still present but fortunately, women today have choices and there are avenues that can be taken to assist with the emotional and psychological effects of abortion. The factors that affect the emotional and psychological problems vary depending on specific variables. We are now prepared to analyze and access the factors and help those that will be in need of support.

Emotional Consequences of Post Abortion

The literature review topic selected is the emotional consequences of post abortion and how they are processed. Abortion is embedded in a social dilemma of controversy that has implications for psychological reactions to patients that have had abortions. After reviewing the selected literature articles, I am refining my topic to the psychological and emotional reasons women are impacted by abortion procedures. Listed are the key points that each literature article mentioned that support the research. Contrasting factors were to what extent each factor influenced the psychological status of the patient. The research reveals that there any several factors that affect us but that they vary depending on specific variables.

Abortion: A Social-Psychological Perspective by Nancy E. Adler – Key Points

• Studies show that strong negative reactions after aborting are rare. That the predominate response immediately following the procedure is often relief.

• Negative reactions have also been observed with periods of regret, depression and guilt.

• Age, marital status and religion play a large factor in psychological responses

• Social factors such as woman's own choice, support from significant others

• Abortion setting also play a critical factor, e.g. illegal procedure vs. legal procedure and how patient is treated in the setting

• Trimester of termination

Sex, Abortion, and Unmarried Women by P. Sachdev – Key Points

• Studies showed that women who had greater difficulty were those that had identified with the fetus as a real person or "my baby".

• In a study of 70 women the degree of reactions from severe to none were as follows:

• Severe 10% Moderate 10% Mild 50% None 30%• • Euphoria is experienced within hours of termination and then gives way to

sober moods or emotional responses such as guilt and depression.• Factors Associated with Post-Abortion Adjustment Problems by Wendy J

Lewis – Key Points• Abortions during the first trimester does not pose a significant

psychological risk for the vast majority of women

Conclusion

• Women undergoing abortions with similar circumstances vary widely in their psychological and emotional response. Researchers have identified seven factors, which predict difficulty in working through the psychological conflicts.

• Prior history of mental illness• Immature interpersonal relationships• Unstable, conflicted relationship with one's partner• History of a negative relationship with one's mother• Ambivalence regarding abortion• A religious or cultural background hostile to abortion• Single status, especially if one has not had children

ReferencesAdler, N. (1979). Abortion: A Social-Psychological Perspective.

Journal of Social Issues, 35(1), 100-119. Retrieved from SocINDEX with Full Text database.

Sachdev, P. (1993). Sex, Abortion, and Unmarried Women. Westport, CT: Greenwood Press. Retrieved January 22, 2010, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=27235016

Lewis, W. J. (1997). Factors Associated with Post-Abortion Adjustment Problems: Implications for Triage. The Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality, 6(1), 9+. Retrieved January 16, 2010, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=5000463687