Post-Abortion Syndrome (PAS)

Are you at Risk?

There are many negative emotional reactions that have been associated with abortion. Some women experience “impacted grieving” which reflects an inability to complete the grieving process. Other women experience specific self-destructive tendencies, including easting disorders, sexual dysfunction, and substance abuse.

A widely used term for emotional problems is “post-abortion syndrome” or PAS. Actually, post-abortion syndrome has been proposed as a specific diagnosis for those women who experience a specific, related set of emotional problems.

Emotional Impact

Some women experience strong negative emotions after abortion. Sometimes this occurs within days and sometimes it happens after many years. This psychological response is known as PAS. Several factors that impact the likelihood PAS include: the woman’s age, the abortion circumstances, the stage of pregnancy at which the abortion occurs, and the woman’s religious beliefs.

PAS Symptoms

Guilt, Anger, Anxiety, Depression, Suicidal Thoughts, Anniversary Grief, Flashbacks of Abortion, Sexual Dysfunction, Relationship Problems, Eating Disorders, Alcohol and Drug Abuse, Psychological Reactions

Help Is Available

If you suspect you suffer from PAS – or are simply struggling with your feelings about the abortion – don’t try to handle it alone. While talking to an understanding friend or relative may be helpful, women experiencing PAS may need counseling in order to work through their feelings about the abortion and the trauma surrounding it. For information on post-abortion counseling and support groups in your area, contact us through our website email or call us at 972-642-3877. All information is completely confidential.