Feelings That Come Up Though the most common response to abortion is relief, some women do experience feelings of loss, guilt, anger, numbness and shame. Any life-changing event will cause some people to have strong emotional reactions. You may wonder if your feelings are "normal," or if you are the only woman to feel this way. It can be hard to gauge your experience with that of other women if you don't have anyone to talk to about it. Some reactions may be very mild and fleeting while others can be more intense and lingering. There is no "right way" to deal with abortion, and no one feeling that is more appropriate than another. What is important is to listen to what you are feeling, and try to be with your emotions, however difficult that may be. If the feelings you are having are interfering with your ability to function the way you would like to in your life, you might want to consider seeking professional help from a counsellor. Here is a list of most of the different types of feelings and issues.... * daily thoughts of the lost foetus * crying a lot * increased alcohol and drug use * anniversary dates * difficulty being around young children and pregnant women * observing Mother's Day * mementos * loss of sex drive * naming the foetus * feeling disconnected from your body * feeling numb * feelings of guilt * feelings of shame * feeling like a murderer * wishing abortion wasn't legal * anger towards failed birth control * feelings of grief * feelings of guilt and anger for not having used birth control * worried that this was your last chance to get pregnant * worried that the abortion sterilized you * trouble sleeping * nightmares * withdrawal from friends and family * avoiding foods that you relied on when you had morning sickness * needing closure * angry because you feel you didn't have a choice about having an abortion * feelings of loss * feeling betrayed because of a painful abortion procedure * feeling selfish * anger towards the father * feeling bad for having more than one abortion * anger towards the hospital, doctor, and medical staff, for inadequacies in treatment * feeling pressured to "hurry up and get over it" * feeling isolated * feeling regret
	If you have been troubled by unresolved feelings after an abortion, and don't see your feelings reflected in our list, please e-mail us. skye@prochoiceconnection.com