Each woman having an abortion may experience different emotions before and after the procedure. Women often have both positive and negative feelings after having an abortion. Some women say that these feelings go away quickly, while others say they last for a very long time. These feelings may include emptiness and guilt as well as sadness. A woman may question whether she made the right decision. Some women may feel relief about their decision and that the procedure is over. Other women may feel anger at having to make the choice.
Counseling or support before and after an abortion is very important. Family help and support is very important, but the woman may need additional help if the feelings that appear after an abortion become more intense. Talking with a professional counselor before having an abortion can help a woman better understand her decision and the feelings she may experience after the procedure. If counseling is available to the woman, these feelings may be easier to handle.
Remember, it’s a woman’s right to be fully informed by her doctor prior to any procedure. A woman should be encouraged to ask questions.