What Is Post-Abortion Stress Syndrome?
Post Abortion Stress Syndrome (PASS) is a form of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) that specifically affects individuals who have undergone an abortion. It can result in intense psychological, emotional, physical, and spiritual distress, leaving many women and men struggling with unresolved grief, guilt, and emotional pain long after the procedure.
At Open Arms Real Choices Clinic, we understand that abortion can have lasting effects, and we are here to offer hope, healing, and compassionate support to those suffering from Post Abortion Stress Syndrome.
Understanding Post-Abortion Stress Syndrome
For many women, abortion is not just a medical event—it can be a profoundly traumatic experience that leaves emotional scars. While pro-abortion advocates often downplay or dismiss the long-term psychological impact, research and testimonies confirm that Post Abortion Stress Syndrome is real and can have debilitating effects【1】.
Symptoms of PASS:
✔ Guilt: Women may feel a deep sense of shame and self-blame, believing they deserve punishment for the abortion decision.
✔ Anxiety: Intense feelings of nervousness or fear may arise, often accompanied by dizziness, nausea, or headaches.
✔ Emotional Numbness: Many women suppress their feelings, avoiding emotional connections with family, friends, or children.
✔ Avoidance of Triggers: Women may avoid pregnant women, children, or baby-related items, as these can trigger painful memories.
✔ Anniversary Grief: Significant dates, such as the abortion date or the baby’s due date, may resurface emotional pain.
✔ Reliving the Abortion: Women may experience nightmares, flashbacks, or intrusive thoughts related to the abortion.
✔ Suicidal Thoughts: In some cases, unresolved guilt and grief may lead to suicidal ideation.
✔ Substance Abuse: Women may turn to alcohol, drugs, or other self-destructive behaviors to cope.
✔ Difficulty Bonding with Future Children: Feelings of guilt or self-punishment can make it difficult to bond with future children.
Is Post Abortion Stress Syndrome Real?
Yes, Post Abortion Stress Syndrome is real—it is recognized by mental health professionals and supported by scientific studies. Although it is not classified as a distinct medical diagnosis, PASS shares many characteristics with PTSD.
According to the Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons, 67.5% of post-abortive women reported experiencing emotional struggles such as depression, anxiety, and regret, while 51% felt a sense of guilt following their abortion【2】.
The National Institute of Health (NIH) also reports that post-abortive women are at a higher risk for mental health issues, including:
✔ Depression and anxiety disorders
✔ Substance use and addiction
✔ Self-harming behaviors【3】
How to Deal With Post-Abortion Trauma
Healing from abortion trauma is a gradual process that requires emotional support, counseling, and self-compassion. Here are some steps to begin your healing journey:
✅ 1. Choose to Remember the Pain
Healing begins when you acknowledge your grief. Suppressing the pain may provide temporary relief, but it prevents true healing. In a safe and supportive environment, you can share your experience and begin the process of releasing the emotional burden.
✅ 2. Seek Counseling and Support Groups
At Open Arms Real Choices Clinic, we offer:
✔ Confidential post-abortion counseling with trained professionals who can help you process your emotions.
✔ Post-abortion support groups where you can connect with other women who have had similar experiences.
✔ A non-judgmental, compassionate environment where you can share your story and begin to heal.
✅ 3. Grieve Your Loss
The loss of a child through abortion is real and profound, even if it is not outwardly acknowledged. It is essential to allow yourself to grieve. Some women find healing through:
✔ Writing a letter to the child they lost
✔ Naming the child as a symbolic act of remembrance
✔ Participating in a memorial service or private ceremony
✅ 4. Accept Forgiveness and Grace
Many women report feeling unworthy of forgiveness after an abortion. However, healing involves embracing grace—both from yourself and from God. At Open Arms, we can support you spiritually and emotionally through your healing journey.
Hope and Healing Through Post-Abortion Care
If you are struggling with Post Abortion Stress Syndrome, you are not alone. The path to healing is possible, and compassionate support is available.
At Open Arms Real Choices Clinic, we offer:
✔ Confidential, compassionate post-abortion support
✔ One-on-one counseling sessions with trained professionals
✔ Support groups to help you connect with others and share your experiences
✔ Evidence-based educational resources to help you heal emotionally and spiritually
Take the First Step Toward Healing
If you or someone you know is suffering from Post Abortion Stress Syndrome, there is hope and healing. You don’t have to carry the burden of post-abortion trauma alone.
📞 Call us at 208.667.5433 to speak with a caring advocate.
📅 Make an appointment online:
🔗 realchoicesclinic.com/make-an-appointment
📍 Visit us at 8056 N. Wayne Drive, Hayden, ID 83835
You are not alone—we are here to support you with compassion, grace, and hope.
Sources:
【1】 American College of Pediatricians. (2020). “The Mental and Physical Health Risks of Abortion.”
【2】 Rue, V., et al. (2018). “Induced Abortion and Traumatic Stress: A Preliminary Comparison of American and Russian Women.” Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons, 22(4), 113-118.
【3】 Coleman, P.K. (2011). “Abortion and Mental Health: Quantitative Synthesis and Analysis of Research Published 1995-2009.” The British Journal of Psychiatry, 199(3), 180-186.
