Discovering you are unexpectedly pregnant when you are already experiencing mental health challenges can be worrying. You might be wondering if an abortion could make these problems worse.
While every woman’s experience is different, it’s important to understand what research says and consider how this pregnancy decision may affect your emotional well-being.
Attleboro Women’s Health Center is here to help you understand your options. We can provide you with free and confidential services, a pregnancy consultation where we will offer you a pregnancy test, a limited ultrasound following a positive pregnancy test, and accurate information about your options, including abortion.
Schedule an appointment with our Care Team today. Same-day appointments may be available.
What the Research Points To
Research on mental health and abortion is complex.
One study reported the following findings about abortion and women’s mental health.
- Abortion is consistently associated with elevated rates of mental illness compared to women without a history of abortion.
- The abortion experience directly contributes to mental health problems for at least some women.
- There are risk factors, such as pre-existing mental illness, that identify women at greatest risk of mental health problems after an abortion.
Based on this research, some women with pre-existing mental health challenges may be at greater risk of experiencing negative mental health outcomes after an abortion.
Experiences vary from woman to woman. Taking time to reflect on your mental health history and speaking with a trusted healthcare or mental health professional can help you make the decision that is right for you.
You Have Options
Navigating an unexpected pregnancy can be overwhelming, especially if you are already dealing with mental health challenges. There are other options available, however, including parenting and adoption.
If you decide to continue your pregnancy, Attleboro Women’s Health Center can connect you with community resources and provide support for you and your baby. This includes material assistance, classes, and emotional and physical support. You are not alone.
Include Your Mental Health in the Decision
Consider your current emotional well-being, past challenges, available support, and whom you could contact if things become more difficult to manage. A qualified mental health professional can help you evaluate these factors, while Attleboro Women’s Health Center can provide pregnancy testing, a limited ultrasound following a positive test, and information about your pregnancy options.
Take the next step by talking with our Care Team about your pregnancy and the resources available to you.
Attleboro Women’s Health Center does not provide or refer for abortions.