Happy

You haven’t forgotten about the abortion, but you are ready to move on.

As you have worked through your grief, you have also grown. You might have learned important coping skills. You may have a better sense of your values. And you might have an enhanced concept of yourself as a person who has learned to handle a life crisis with courage and dignity.

  • Share Your Story

    Many women feel relief and happiness after an abortion. Some feel happy that they were able to have a choice, and make the decision they felt was best. Some are happy the procedure is behind them, as they feared the physical procedure. Some are happy to not be pregnant anymore, due to the pregnancy symptoms.

    Being happy after an abortion is a normal response, and to help destigmatize the experience some women like yourself have blogged about it. Please read their stories here:

    Abortion Conversation Project

    Shout Your Abortion

    Exhale Pro Voice

    So I Had An Abortion

  • Self-Care Techniques

    Remember to take care of yourself, physically and emotionally, after the procedure. Because abortion is complex, feelings about it are also complex. There are various activities that can to help you provide for your emotional wellbeing:

    • Journaling – Writing can be very therapeutic. The following questions are helpful to write about to remind oneself of your decision: What were your reasons for having an abortion? How would your life have been different if you had not had an abortion?
    • Health & Well-being – Do you like to exercise? What are your favourite healthy activities? Is there a hobby you already enjoy, or something new you wish to try? Go out and do those things.
    • Get outside – If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed and sad, take a walk outside and get some fresh air.
    • Do something nice for yourself – Light a candle and enjoy a hot bath, re-read a favourite book, re-watch a favourite show or movie or get out for a walk.
    • Rest – Take time to listen to what your body needs. Turn off phones and gadgets and have a warm bath or a nap.
    • Be Creative– Being creative, in any way, can be helpful to release any emotions. Draw something, paint something, sing and dance, cook a favourite meal, or explore a favourite old activity in new way.
  • Meditation 101

    Many things in life are beyond our control. But, we can take responsibility for our own states of mind. Meditation is an evidence-based tool proven to improve quality of life, and our ability to cope with stress. All you need is a quiet place where you can sit comfortably. Here is a short meditation you can access anytime you need.

     

    To Learn more, visit Moment Meditation at http://momentmeditation.com

  • Sexual Health Care

    It’s important to maintain your general sexual health. Resources and clinics available to help you stay engaged with your self-care include Options for Sexual Health, and the Sex-Sense line.

    Options for Sexual Health
    https://www.optionsforsexualhealth.org

    Sex Sense Line
    1-800-SEX-SENSE