What Are the Mental Health Effects of Abortion?

While not in every case, abortion can lead to various mental health challenges, including anxiety, guilt, and depression for some women.

Coping with your emotions after an abortion can be extremely difficult, and many women seek healing and peace after their abortion experience.

If you’re considering an abortion, it's essential to understand the potential emotional risks and how they might impact your daily life. If you’ve already had an abortion and are struggling, know that you’re not alone. Seeking the support you need is crucial in overcoming these challenges and finding a path to recovery.

Knowing The Risks

The Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons reported that nearly 75% of women who had an abortion felt at least subtly pressured into the decision. Feeling pressured is a significant risk factor for experiencing negative mental health issues.

Many of the women studied experienced psychological effects afterward, including:

Depression
Anxiety
Shame
Guilt
Feelings of worthlessness
Self-destructive behaviors

These are just some of the potential adverse mental health outcomes that can happen post-abortion. However, every woman’s experience and reaction is different.

Find Support

Collage offers after-abortion support designed to help you on your path to healing. By taking advantage of Collage's support programs, you can find the understanding and compassion needed to navigate this difficult time and work towards a place of peace and recovery.

Whether you’re dealing with the effects of an abortion experience or have just discovered you are unexpectedly pregnant, know that there’s hope. You don’t have to do this alone.

Collage offers free pregnancy testing, limited OB ultrasounds, STD testing and treatment, and after-abortion support. We’re here to help you understand your options and get the services you need when facing pregnancy.

Contact us today for confidential support in a safe and nonjudgmental environment.

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How Will Abortion Affect Me Mentally?

September 24, 2025

When considering abortion, it’s natural to wonder how the decision could affect your mental health. While every woman’s experience is different, being aware of possible emotional impacts and taking time to reflect on your circumstances can help you make an informed choice. At Collage, we provide free, confidential support so you don’t have to navigate these questions alone. Our staff is here to listen, answer your questions, and connect you with the resources you need as you process your options. Contact us to schedule your appointment today. What Research Suggests Research has shown that abortion can lead to a range of emotional responses. The American Psychological Association notes that some women experience grief, sadness, or even clinically significant issues like depression and anxiety afterward. Certain factors may make these outcomes more likely, such as: A history of mental health challenges Pressure from others to make a decision Lack of support or secrecy about the pregnancy Strong personal, cultural, or spiritual beliefs Wanting to continue the pregnancy but feeling unable to Recognizing how these factors may apply to your situation can help you prepare and seek support. You Have Other Options You are the one who will live with this decision, so it’s important not to rush. Confirming your pregnancy with a lab- quality test and ultrasound can provide clarity and help you understand your options, which include parenting and adoption. Speaking with a counselor or a healthcare professional can also give you space to process your feelings without judgment. We’re Here for You At Collage, we offer free pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and confidential consultations so you can explore your options with accurate information and compassionate support. Schedule your free appointment today. You deserve the time, space, and care to make a confident decision with your mental health top of mind. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do provide pre-abortion screenings.

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Wondering if the abortion pill is right for you? Learn about eligibility, risks, and why an ultrasound is your first step at Collage.

What Are My Second-Trimester Pregnancy Options?

July 2, 2025

If you’re in your second trimester (between 13 and 26 weeks of pregnancy), you might be asking, What now? Maybe you just found out you’re pregnant, or maybe this stage of pregnancy is bringing new questions or emotions. No matter where you are in your journey, Collage is here to offer support, information, and a safe place to talk through your options. Understanding Abortion Laws in Nebraska In Nebraska, abortion is not permitted after 12 weeks gestation, with limited exceptions. If you’re considering abortion and believe you may be near or past this point, it’s important to have an ultrasound to confirm how far along you are. If you’re unsure how far along you are, Collage offers no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing and ultrasounds to provide the medical information you need to understand your next steps. Exploring Your Other Pregnancy Options If abortion is not an option or you’re unsure what’s next, you still have choices. We can talk with you more about each of them. Parenting Parenting might feel like something you’re not ready for or even impossible right now. But with the right support, it may be more achievable than you think. You don’t have to have all the answers today. At Collage, we can connect you with local resources, parenting classes, and support systems that can help you prepare, step by step. You won’t be alone. Adoption If parenting doesn’t seem like the right fit for your current season, adoption is another option that gives you the ability to make a thoughtful plan for your child. Today’s adoption process puts you in control of key decisions, including: Choosing the adoptive family Deciding how much (if any) communication you’d like to have Creating a plan that reflects your goals and values We offer adoption referrals and a confidential space to explore what this might look like for you—no pressure, just information and support. You’re Not Alone Navigating pregnancy in the second trimester can feel heavy, but you don’t have to walk through it by yourself. At Collage, you’ll find compassionate care, medical services, and honest answers to your questions. Schedule your no-cost appointment today. We’re here to listen and support through this process.