Why Am I Feeling This Way After My Abortion?

To the hurting,

Ending a pregnancy can be an emotionally challenging experience. You may have days when you cannot get it off your mind. You may feel numb or have waves of sadness and tears. Know that others have felt the same emotions. You're not alone with your feelings.

It's important to know that all women experience a variety of emotions after an abortion. Feelings of relief, sadness, grief, guilt, and depression are common. There's no right or wrong way to feel. You may feel relieved. You may feel sad. You might feel several emotions all at once. That's not unusual. It's important for you to acknowledge these emotions and allow yourself to grieve in your own way.

It's important to have a support system. Reach out to a trusted friend or family member who cares about you and will listen to you. Abortions can be hard to talk about, so if you're feeling overwhelmed by your emotions or memories of your experience, it's helpful to talk to a therapist or counselor. Sharing your feelings can help you process your emotions and feel less alone.

It's also important to take care of yourself physically during this time. Make sure you're eating well, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest. Be kind to yourself. Recovery times vary from person to person. Give your body time to heal. Take time to do things that make you feel good, whether it's going for a walk, reading a book, or spending time with loved ones. Know that if there are tears, it's okay to cry.

Did you have a follow-up appointment a few weeks after, whether you had a procedure or took pills? If not, have you experienced any physical symptoms or complications? How have these impacted your emotional well-being? If mood changes interfere with your daily life or don't go away, let your doctor know. If you're having physical challenges afterward, you should contact a doctor.

I hope that these words offer some comfort during this difficult time. Remember that you're not alone and that your abortion doesn't define you.

There are resources available to support you. If you'd like to talk with someone who knows this pain, we're here to listen and help in your healing journey. Feel free to email us to learn more about what our after-abortion help looks like.

With care and understanding,

The Collage Team

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My Friends Are Telling Me to Abort, But I'm Not Ready

June 4, 2025

An unexpected pregnancy can leave you with more questions than answers. Especially when friends are urging you to choose abortion, you may be more confused than ever. While their advice might come from care or fear, it’s essential to remember this is your pregnancy, future, and choice. At Collage, we’re here to help you navigate this pressure and find a path that feels right for you so that you can feel informed and confident about your decision. Reach out to us today for no-cost support. Listen to Your Instincts Your friends might be an important part of your life, but your instincts matter most. If abortion doesn’t feel right, take a moment to ask: What’s holding me back? Maybe you’re picturing parenting your child or are curious about adoption. It’s also important to keep in mind that abortion is a serious procedure that your friends may not fully grasp the details of. Physical and emotional risks are involved, making it a more complex decision. Your hesitation is a sign to slow down and explore, not to rush into a choice you’re not ready for. Talk It Out If your friends keep pressing, try a gentle conversation. Let them know you understand they’re worried, you’re not sure about abortion yet. Ask what’s driving their advice. Maybe they’re scared about your finances or future. Maybe they’re simply telling you what they’d do in your situation, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Understanding their side can ease tension without giving in. If they won’t respect your space, set boundaries and let them know you need time to think. You don’t owe them an immediate answer. Find Your Support Surround yourself with people who’ll lift you up, not pull you down. Write down your thoughts or talk to someone neutral. You can find a counselor or even online spaces where you can share your heart with those who won’t push one option over another. Even a trusted family member, a mentor, or a place like Collage can offer perspective without strings. You deserve to make this decision with clear facts and a steady heart, not under pressure. Help is Available If your friends are pushing abortion but you’re not ready, Collage is here with no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited obstetric ultrasounds, and pregnancy options education to help you decide what’s next. Our trained team offers confidential support to explore parenting, adoption, or abortion without pressure. Contact us for a no-cost appointment today. You deserve to choose your own path.

Hiding My Pregnancy: Would Abortion Be an Option?

May 21, 2025

An unexpected pregnancy can flip your world upside down, and the urge to keep it under wraps might hit hard. Maybe you’re thinking abortion could erase the situation quietly.

What to Do When Friends and Family Are Pressuring You into an Abortion Decision

April 2, 2025

What do you do when those closest to you start pushing you toward a decision that doesn’t feel right? Pressure from family or friends to choose abortion can leave you feeling stuck, unheard, and unsure of what to do next. How can you hold firm in your decision while dealing with well-meaning but overwhelming advice? Here’s what you can do to navigate this difficult situation with strength and resilience. Mental Health and Pressure Your decision should be your own—one that isn’t influenced by guilt or outside expectations. Studies show that women who feel pressured into abortion are more likely to experience guilt, anxiety, depression, and other negative mental health outcomes. Protecting your mental and emotional health starts with making a choice that aligns with what you truly want. Ways to Handle the Pressure Since you understand why this decision needs to be yours, here are some practical steps to help you handle outside pressure. Give Yourself Time You don’t have to decide right away. Take a moment, think through your feelings, and give yourself the gift to reflect without feeling rushed. You're less likely to regret a decision made on your terms. Learn About All Your Options Abortion isn’t your only choice. Parenting and adoption are also possibilities, each with its own forms of support and resources. Learning more about these options can help you make an informed decision you feel at peace with. Set Boundaries It can be tough to stand your ground when others have strong opinions about your decision. Clearly expressing your thoughts by setting boundaries can help you avoid unwanted pressure. Letting others know you need time and space to think can help shift the conversation away from their influence and back to what’s best for you. Advice from a Third Party Getting a different perspective on your situation can be helpful when seeking advice from someone outside your inner circle. This could be a professional counselor, an online support group, or a caring team member at Collage . You deserve people in your life who want to understand you without judgment. You Are Not Alone Even if those around you don’t fully understand, there are people who do. A supportive environment can make all the difference as you navigate this decision. Collage is here to walk with you during this time. We offer lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited OB ultrasounds, pregnancy options information, and more at no cost so you can get informed and have the support you need to move forward with certainty. Schedule a confidential appointment today.