Choosing abortion as the way to deal with an unplanned pregnancy is not a decision to be entered into lightly. While at first it may seem like the easiest way to escape a confusing and scary situation, it can leave scars that last a lifetime.
One study found that 44% of respondents regretted their decision to get an abortion. Among their emotional symptoms, women in the study cited depression, feelings of loss, shame and even negative feelings when they were around other babies. 42% of those women said the adverse psychological effects continued for 10 years or more.
In online testimonials, one woman shared, “The morning after (the abortion) was done, I immediately felt empty. I felt like something was missing. I cried myself to sleep every night after. I could not get out of bed.” She went on to say, “I know God has forgiven me but I can’t seem to forgive myself.”
Another woman, reflecting on her abortion from 38 years ago, shared, “I held on to that trauma for 24 years before God started to show me I needed healing from this. That abortion was the root of many poor decisions I made in my life. The poor self esteem I carried. Never feeling good about myself…My abortion was the worst decision I ever made.”
It’s devastating to hear stories like these, especially when they never needed to happen. Even if it may feel like it in the moment, abortion is rarely the only option available to women.
If you’re considering abortion, here are three questions to ask yourself:
- Am I making this decision too quickly?
- What alternatives do I have?
- Will I be able to live with this decision the rest of my life?
At Sira in Gainesville, we help women think through these questions and more. Our pregnancy counselors are compassionate listeners who assist women daily in exploring all of the pregnancy options available to them. And they can even connect these women with community programs that make it possible for women in any circumstance to pursue adoption or raising their children with confidence they will be supported along the way.
If you’re currently pregnant and unsure what path to take, or if you’ve had an abortion and you’re struggling with the emotional after-effects, Sira can help. All of our services are provided confidentially and 100% free of charge, including our “Hope Restored” after-abortion and sexual healing programs.
Contact Sira in Gainesville today at 352-377-4947 to schedule your free appointment.
