The confusing emotions a woman feels following an abortion can leave her feeling anxious, scared and fearful. She may attempt to repress her feelings, avoid people or situations that remind her of the abortion, become withdrawn, or use alcohol or drugs in order to escape her feelings. A widely used term for emotional problems that develop as a consequence to abortion is “post abortion syndrome” or PAS. If you feel you may be experiencing PAS, call our 24 hour help-line or Alternatives Pregnancy Center for help in dealing with these emotions.
Post-Abortion Syndrome - Post Abortion Stress Checklist
The following checklist may help you identify symptoms in your life that may be related to a past abortion experience. Please select the symptoms that may pertain to you:
- Sadness or feelings of depression
- Feelings of loss
- Guilt/Regret
- Crying episodes
- Anxiety
- Recurring thoughts about the abortion
- Inability to maintain an intimate relationship
- Preoccupation with anniversaries (i.e. date of abortion or due date)
- Obsession with children or child-bearing issues
- Avoidance babies or small children
- Increased alcohol use or drug abuse
- Nightmares/flashbacks
- Repeat abortions
- Engage in one of the following in excess: school, work, eating, dieting
- Multiple sexual relationships
- Difficulty sleeping
- Feelings of numbness
- Lack of self-esteem
- Suicidal impulses
- Desire for secrecy about the abortion
- Disinterest in sex
- Relationship issues
If you checked any of the symptoms, you may be experiencing Post Abortion Stress.