There are some who do not cope well and who experience various symptoms, which are sometimes called post-abortion stress.

These can include:

• Emotions such as guilt, grief, sense of loss and anger.
• Feeling the need to ‘replace’ the pregnancy.
• A feeling of distance from existing children.
• Inability to maintain normal routine.
• Depressed feelings, which are stronger than ‘a little sadness’.
• Sleeping problems.
• Flashbacks.
• Tearfulness.
• Disturbing dreams or nightmares.
• Difficulty being near babies or pregnant women.

In severe cases a woman can become suicidal, self-harming, indulge in risk-taking behaviours, become dependant on drugs or alcohol, or suffer anxiety or panic attacks.

These symptoms can occur at any stage after an abortion and are sometimes triggered by another loss later on.

Some women are more susceptible to these symptoms particularly if there was uncertainty or ambivalence surrounding the decision.
Such women may have experienced:

Feeling uncomfortable about the idea of abortion.

Strong motherly feelings or maternal instinct.

Feeling she had no choice because circumstances were overwhelming.

Having an abortion after a disability had been diagnosed in wanted pregnancy.

Previous depression or mental ill health.

Feeling pressurised by someone close.

If you are experiencing any of these feelings it is good to talk to someone at the Swindon Pregnancy Crisis Centre where we can help you.