Struggling After An Abortion: Finding Support and Understanding 

"It's very difficult to find services for post abortion grief, and I found my counsellor to be very understanding and non-judgemental of my experience." - After Abortion Support Client 

Not everyone faces challenging emotions after an abortion, but it's essential to acknowledge that feelings such as grief, sadness, regret, shame, guilt, or a sense of loss are valid responses. There's no right or wrong way for you to feel. 

Unfortunately, societal dialogue about abortion often remains at a political level, which limits the necessary support for individuals who feel a need to discuss their abortion experience. Many feel uncomfortable sharing their struggles with close family or friends, experiencing what is known as disenfranchised grief.

Disenfranchised grief is when your heart is grieving but you cannot talk about your pain or situation with anyone because it is considered unacceptable or off limits. The situation causing the pain may be seen as an unacceptable thing to talk about or society may give the message that there shouldn’t be pain arising from that situation (like abortion) in the first place. Because abortion is legal in Canada, it is presumed that abortion is safe and without possible accompanying emotional or physical risks. The secrecy surrounding an abortion can lead to feelings of great isolation. Suppressing disenfranchised grief doesn’t make it go away; instead it festers in silence until it eventually demands to be acknowledged. 

Both women and men who experience post-abortion grief often feel that their emotions are neither accepted nor acknowledged. This makes seeking support incredibly valuable. At First Place Options, our counsellors are here to provide you with positive coping strategies and a safe environment to express and work through your emotions.

We understand the complexities of post-abortion emotions. If you're feeling this way after an abortion, know that you are not alone. We're here to support you through the dimensions of grief, giving you the time you need to reflect on how your experience has shaped you. 

If you're struggling after an abortion, remember that support and healing are within your reach. Reach out today to begin your journey toward wholeness. Your journey matters, and so do you.

- FPO Team