An unplanned pregnancy can complicate an otherwise happy relationship. Perhaps you’re considering abortion, but are concerned that it could ruin your future with your partner.
We get it—there are probably a million questions running through your head right now. So, take a deep breath. This decision doesn’t have to derail your relationship! While we can’t predict exactly how abortion could affect your relationship, we do know the mental and emotional toll it can take.
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?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to abortion. Some couples agree that it’s the right decision for them and are able to move on easily afterward. For others, the experience can be devastating and the relationship eventually falls apart.
That being said, studies have shown that abortion tends to have negative effects on relationships. For example, one study found that:
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].
Couples who experienced abortion were more likely to argue about children and finances[1].
Even if you don’t have any strong feelings about abortion, things can still get complicated if you and your partner have different opinions about it. This can make it harder to communicate with your partner, process your own emotions, and work through your disagreements.
How Does Abortion Affect Mental Health?
As mentioned above, abortion affects everyone in different ways. Some women feel relieved once the procedure is over. Others experience depression, anxiety, and guilt, whether immediately after their abortion or years later[2].
Abortion is a major decision that can have lasting effects on your mental health. Before making your final choice, it’s crucial to examine how you feel about the procedure and explore each of your pregnancy options so you can make the best decision for your health and future.
How Can We Work Through Our Disagreements?
Maybe he wants you to continue the pregnancy, but you’re leaning toward abortion. Perhaps you feel ready to be a parent, but he doesn’t. Maybe he’s left the decision up to you by saying, “I support whatever you want”. He means well, but what if the final decision ends up hurting the relationship anyway? You don’t have to make this choice alone. Sometimes, an outside perspective can introduce you to options you may not have considered!
If you and your partner are having trouble coming to a decision you both agree on, consider attending an options education session at Pregnancy Care Center! Our client advocates can provide all the facts on abortion in California, adoption, and parenting. We’re happy to answer all of your questions, so you two can make a fully informed decision together!
Abortion Information in Fresno, CA
Don’t make a decision out of fear. Pregnancy Care Center is here to help you find a solution together! Call or text us at (559) 380-4118 or schedule your appointment today. All services are free and confidential!
Please be aware that Pregnancy Care 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
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