The Emotional Impact on Abortions Versus Adoption

The Emotional Impact of Abortion versus Adoption
Julie Sykes
Com/155
October 2, 2011
Suzanne Mahler

The Emotional Impact of Abortion vs. Adoption
Women that experience an unplanned pregnancy should plan to put their unborn child up for adoption instead of choosing an abortion.   Research shows that the emotional strain on women that choose abortion is greater than on women who choose to give their child up for adoption. Women that choose abortion have a greater risk of developing depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and the need for psychotropic medication.   Women that choose adoption are also at risk for depression but may also experience the joy of giving life to a wanting family.
Many women choose abortion over adoption without weighing the pros and cons.   Abortion may seem like an easy way out when looking at the short term effects, but when you really do the research abortion has many side effects that could be prevented if women would choose adoption.   The choice of abortion not only affects the women who makes the decision but may also have effects on their family.
After an abortion, “commonly reported reactions include: feelings of guilt, anxiety, helplessness, grief and/or remorse; feelings of anger, bitterness, and resentment; feelings of distrust and betrayal; lowered self-esteem; fear of future pregnancies, flashbacks to the abortion experience; nightmares or sleeping disorder; sexual dysfunction; eating disorders; substance abuse; self-destructive behavior; broken or abusive relationships; problems bonding with other children; suicidal thoughts or tendencies; and other problems.” (Dr. Martha Shuping, 1999) All these reported reactions can be bundled into one word…Depression.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is also known for appearing in women after an abortion. “Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that's triggered by a terrifying event. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety, as...