H3HELPLINE is here for you. We help anyone who needs support after an abortion. We care about your recovery, let us help.
For many women, receiving a positive pregnancy test can bring a rush of joy, happiness, and other emotions. However, if you have had an abortion in the past, those feelings can be met with apprehension, guilt, or any number of other emotions. Post abortion grief presents itself differently for everyone who has been affected by an abortion, and if you haven’t processed through those emotions and feelings, they can often resurface when you discover you are pregnant again. Keep reading for our advice on how to navigate a pregnancy after an abortion and learn how H3Helpline can help.
Be Honest About Your Feelings
One of the most important things you can do is be open and honest about your feelings. By not processing through your emotions, they build up and can hold you back from finding healing and joy again. While it can be painful to relive and process those emotions, it is an important part of your healing journey. The best way to process through them is to do so in a safe environment with people you are comfortable discussing this around. We share some suggestions below.
Find a Support Group
The stigma surrounding abortion tends to make women and men who have experienced abortion to be hesitant about discussing their experiences and feelings. However, there are millions of other people who are feeling the same way, which has led to the creation of support groups specifically for those who have experienced abortion. They create a safe space for you to process with others who know what you’re going through and allow you to build a community that will support you every step of the way. If you need help finding one near you, call or text us at 866-721-7881 and our Helpline Coaches can help you get connected with a group in your area.
Consider Counseling
Another resource to consider using is professional counseling. While our helpline and local support groups are great resources, some situations require counseling from a certified professional. Processing through your emotions with your support group or a Helpline Coach is healthy and can help the healing process, but counseling may be needed to help you find complete healing from your abortion experience. Our Helpline Coaches are always available to help you find a counselor in your area that is best suited to help you continue your healing journey.
Talk to Your Doctor About Your Concerns
When you discover you’re pregnant after having an abortion previously, it’s natural to be concerned about the health of your pregnancy. While the risk of an abortion negatively affecting future pregnancies is low, some complications can occur. If you have questions or concerns, the best thing to do is to put those fears to rest by scheduling an appointment with your health provider or doctor. This will allow you to focus on what’s important and not have to wonder about the “what ifs.”
Contact H3Helpline
If you are needing additional resources or don’t have someone in your life that you feel you can talk to about what you are going through, H3Helpline can help. Our 24/7 helpline is staffed by professional Helpline Coaches who have each experienced abortion first-hand and found healing. They can listen to and process with you and connect you with resources in your area to help you navigate the journey that you’re on. Call or text us at 866-721-7881 or visit our website for more information.