Post Abortion Syndrome

What is it?

PAS is proposed as a subset of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder when it is a result of an abortion.

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 eating disorders, sexual dysfunction, and substance abuse.

What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?

PTSD can occur when a person undergoes a traumatic experience which is beyond their normal ability to cope and results in intense fear, feelings of helplessness or being trapped, or loss of control. Those who witness or participate in a violent death, or who experience physical injury or sexual assault are at the greatest risk for experiencing PTSD.

With PTSD, the victim wants to forget about the event and put it behind them, but is driven to express the feelings of fear and pain.

The efforts to cope with the feelings can take on a life of their own, often resulting in abnormal behavior or personality disorders.

Who is vulnerable to PAS?

Women may experience abortion as a traumatic event for several reasons. Many are forced into unwanted abortions by husbands, boyfriends, parents, or others. Other women, even those with compelling reasons for abortion, may still feel guilt or anguish about the death of their child.

What are the symptoms?

• anxiety attacks

• irritability

• outbursts of anger or rage

• aggressive behavior

• difficulty concentrating

• nightmares or sleeping disorders

• recurrent and intrusive thoughts about the abortion or the aborted child

• flashbacks to the abortion experience

• feelings of intense grief or depression on the due date of the aborted pregnancy or the anniversary of the abortion

• repression or denial of thoughts or feelings about the abortion

• efforts to avoid activities or situations which remind them of the pregnancy or the abortion

• withdrawal or estrangement from others, especially those involved in the abortion decision

• inability to maintain loving or trusting relationships

• a sense of hopelessness or futility about the future

• diminished interest in previously enjoyed activities

• drug or alcohol abuse

• suicidal thoughts or actions

• eating disorders

• other self-destructive tendencies

How can I get help?

If you suspect you suffer from PAS, or are simply struggling with your feelings about your abortion, don't try to handle it alone.

Through our Chrysalis Counseling Abortion Recovery Program, you can find hope and healing.

Resources: Easton Publishing Company, David Reardon, Ph.D.