An unplanned pregnancy can complicate an otherwise happy relationship. Suddenly, you’ve gone from good morning texts to difficult, awkward conversations. Perhaps you’re considering abortion, but are concerned that it could change things between you two.
We understand how easy it can be to spiral at moments like this. You’ve likely got a million what-if scenarios playing out in your mind. While we can’t predict exactly how abortion could affect your relationship, we do know the mental and emotional toll it can take. However, this decision doesn’t have to derail your future with him!
Keep reading to learn more about the impact of abortion on relationships and how you and your partner can make an informed and empowered decision together!
How Does Abortion Affect Relationships?
Abortion affects every relationship in different ways. Some couples agree that it’s the right decision for them and are able to move on easily. For others, abortion can be a devastating experience and the relationship eventually falls apart.
All that being said, studies have shown that abortion often has negative effects on relationships. For example, one study found that:
- Couples who experienced abortion were more likely to argue about children and finances [1].
- Men whose partners had an abortion reported fights about drugs and feelings of jealousy [1].
- Women who had abortions were put at a greater risk for domestic violence and were more likely to experience sexual dysfunction [1].
Abortion tends to bring up a lot of complicated emotions. This can make it harder to process your thoughts and feelings, communicate effectively with your partner, and work through your disagreements.
How Does Abortion Affect Mental Health?
As mentioned above, everyone reacts to abortion differently. Some women feel relieved after their abortions. Others suffer from guilt, anxiety, and depression, whether immediately after their abortion or years later [2].
Navigating grief and other mental health struggles after an abortion can put a major strain on a relationship, especially if you and your partner have different emotional reactions to the procedure. It’s important to understand how you feel about abortion and consider each of your pregnancy options so you can make the best decision for your mental health!
How Can We Work Through Our Disagreements?
Maybe you feel ready to be a parent, but he doesn’t.
Perhaps he wants you to continue the pregnancy, but you’re considering abortion.
Maybe he’s left it up to you by saying, “I support whatever decision you make”. He means well, but what if the final decision hurts your relationship anyway?
Right now, you both need honesty and clarity! If you’re having trouble making a choice you both feel comfortable with, consider getting an unbiased perspective from a medical professional!
Our compassionate team can answer all of your questions regarding abortion in California, adoption, and parenting. We’re here to help you explore all of your pregnancy options, so you two can make a fully informed decision together!
Abortion Information in Bakersfield, CA
Don’t make a decision out of fear. Bakersfield Pregnancy Center is here to help you find a solution together! Call us at (661) 464-7653 or schedule your appointment today. All services are free and confidential!
Please be aware that Bakersfield Pregnancy Center does not provide or refer for abortion services.
Sources
- Coleman, P. K., Rue, V. M., & Coyle, C. T. (2009, March 26). Induced abortion and intimate relationship quality in the Chicago Health and Social Life Survey. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19324381/
- Abortion Risks. Louisiana Department of Health. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://ldh.la.gov/page/1063