Considering Abortion

Some women feel that abortion is a quick, immediate solution to the crisis pregnancy. Other women feel pressured by others to consider abortion.

Our client advocates are available to discuss any questions you may have regarding abortion.

We are here to help you to understand all your options so you can make a well-informed decision. It is your pregnancy, your right to know, and your decision. We are committed to providing you with caring emotional support, no matter what your decision.

Abortion Procedures

In South Africa, abortion on demand is legal up until 12 weeks of pregnancy:

An ultrasound may be performed prior to an abortion being performed in order to determine the stage of pregnancy and also afterwards to determine if the abortion is complete. Sometimes a D & C under anaesthetic is required to complete the process.

See also Stages of Pregnancy

Some of the Physical & Emotional Complications Which May be Encountered

1. Perforation of the Uterus. This complication increases with the duration of the pregnancy.
2. Some bleeding is normal, but there is a risk of severe, life threatening bleeding (Haemorrhage)
3. Infection from insertion of medical instruments or fetal parts mistakenly left behind.
4. Inability to be able to conceive after an abortion.
5. Increased incidence of miscarriage or pre-term labour in subsequent pregnancies.

There is evidence that abortion is associated with decrease in both emotional and physical health. For some women these emotions may be very strong, they may appear days or years later.

Post Abortion Stress

There is a relief stage after an abortion, but questions then arise whether it was the right decision to abort. Women either talk about the pain they are beginning to experience or use defence mechanism to protect against the pain. As other stresses enter her life she may not have the energy to cope with both. It is here that symptoms may appear.

These may include the following: Guilt or shame, fear or anxiety, anger, avoidance behaviour, emotional numbing, depression, thoughts of suicide, re-experiencing, disturbing dreams, worry, denial, substance abuse, destructive relationships, sensitivity to babies or pregnant women, disregard for personal safety, aversion to vacuum cleaners, anniversary reactions or flashbacks…

If you find yourself in turmoil or experiencing any of these feelings after an abortion, contact us today.