Abortion Trauma

I would first like to address the word trauma before we dig deeper, as this word can feel heavy or triggering. It is important to know that experiencing trauma does not mean that we are meant to stay in a continued state of pain. Healing through (not getting over), and managing the effects of trauma are absolutely possible! We at Rouge Doulas are here to support you with accessible resources before, during and after your abortion. While abortion trauma might not occur with every person who goes through this experience, it is helpful to be familiar with some of the signs, so that the right support can be provided. 

Feelings/Thoughts that might occur:

• Guilt or shame

• A sense of deep sadness 

• Anxiety

• Numbness

• Body insecurity/sensitivities 
  

To dig a little deeper, here are some factors that can also contribute to abortion trauma, when outside influential persons and past experiences weigh heavily in your life.

• Personal beliefs and ideas of what pregnancy or parenthood might have looked like.

• Pressure or judgment from family members or any close persons in your life.

• Previous trauma, mental health challenges, or impacting experiences that felt present during your abortion.

• Lack of desired support which made it more challenging to hold this experience. 
  

Something to keep in mind is that one or a combination of the feelings listed is common to experience temporarily. There is no right or wrong way to be, think, or feel after your abortion. However, abortion trauma tends to linger longer, continues to be heavy even when life seems to have gone back to “normal”, and/or brings up unexpected feelings that cause every day functioning to become really hard. 

Acknowledging whatever state you are in is the first thing that will help you move towards recovery, restoration, and healing! Receiving support that feels safe for you to address what you are holding is key to releasing the things you want to move through. 

You are not alone, and you are SEEN. 

Abortion trauma is real. 

It is absolutely possible to heal from it too. 

♥️ Maggie