An Open Door

Abortion is one of the hottest topics in lieu of the election. On one end, abortion is supported through full term gestation, while on the opposite end, abortion is limited. Wherever you sit on the matter, in this election, you'll have to make the choice on where you stand in just under two weeks.

The reality of abortion though is one in five pregnancies end in abortion, says Guttmacher Institute in their 2011 statistic. Which means regardless of your stance, regardless of your political endorsement, if you know five women of childbearing age, the chance of you encountering a woman who experienced abortion is very real.

So, if one in five women have chosen to terminate pregnancy for any number of reasons, there are many women carrying what can be the burden of its truth. Whether they recognize the humanity of the pre-born or deem it's existence less than human, there still comes the potential of emotional trauma for her and those involved in decision making process.

By my own research, part of the medical community recognizes Post-Abortion Syndrome (PAS) to be a very real condition, while others still default to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD. Regardless of which label you cover post-abortive emotional trauma with, it can be very real, and very painful.

PTSD can manifest it's ugly head whenever a trauma has occurred, which can include abortion. It's more than a one time event of emotional mourning. It's repetitive trauma every time the event comes to memory, causing you to relive the pain over, and over. It can last for days, months, or years if never processed through. The emotional trauma can lead to other negative side effects such as drug problems, suicidal thoughts and tendencies, and illness. It can effect your ability to work, parent, and hold successful relationships.

Why do you need to be aware of this? Well, it goes back to the idea that if you know five women of child-bearing age, one of them very well could have experienced an abortion. It might have been their choice, it might have been someone else's. It might have been advised by a physician, it might have been elective due to age, relationships, or financial stability. Whatever the case is, PTSD/PAS might be a reality they're living in without hope of freedom from it.

What do you do if you recognize someone who is struggling? Reach out a compassionate hand and ask the pertinent questions about the condition of their heart. If you find they are indeed struggling with PTSD/PAS, or miscarriage, help them find the help they need to move past. It's only through advocacy and compassion that we as a society will end the stigma of suffering in silence.

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At First Choice PRC, we offer a programs of healing for post-abortive and miscarriage, for mothers and fathers. The program is individualized for individual needs and cases. Every session is completely free and confidential, with the goal of total emotional healing in mind.

If you or someone you know is suffering from the effects of PAS or miscarriage, please reach out today. Freedom and hope is available! Call 715-345-0280 to set up your consultation today to see if this program will be a good fit for you.