How to deal with psychological changes after abortion

psychological changes after induced abortion are a common phenomenon, which can be intervened through self-regulation, seeking social support, psychological counseling, moderate exercise, and necessary use of medication under the guidance of a doctor. The psychological changes after induced abortion may be related to various factors such as endocrine fluctuations, social pressure, personal value conflicts, past psychological problems, and surgical trauma experiences.

1. Self regulation

After induced abortion, female hormone levels undergo drastic changes, which may directly lead to low mood, irritability, or anxiety. Self regulation is the foundation for coping with these initial emotional responses. You can try writing a diary, listening to soothing music, practicing deep breathing, or mindfulness meditation to help yourself accept and organize your emotions. Allow yourself a period of sadness without forcing yourself to immediately return to normalcy, but avoid prolonged immersion in negative emotions. Establishing a regular schedule and ensuring adequate sleep can also help stabilize emotions.

2. Seeking Social Support

The social support system plays a buffering role in psychological recovery. It is common to feel lonely, self blame, or misunderstood after surgery. Proactively sharing feelings with trusted partners, family, or friends can effectively alleviate psychological stress. If you are concerned about being judged by others, you can also consider joining a peer support group organized by a professional organization to gain resonance and strength through the sharing of similar experiences. Avoiding self isolation and turning caring interpersonal relationships into emotional support can help rebuild a sense of security and value.

III. Psychological Counseling

When emotional distress persists for more than two weeks and seriously affects daily life, work, or interpersonal relationships, seeking the help of a professional psychological counselor is an important step. Psychological counseling can provide a safe environment for individuals to confide, help them identify irrational self blame or fearful thoughts, handle grief related to loss, and learn healthier coping strategies. Cognitive behavioral therapy and other methods have shown good results in improving post abortion depression and anxiety. The consultation process helps to reconstruct hope and plans for the future.

4. Moderate Exercise

Gradually restoring moderate physical activity, when physical conditions permit, has a positive impact on psychology. Exercise can promote the release of pleasant neurotransmitters such as endorphins in the brain, which can help relieve stress, improve sleep, and enhance mood. It is recommended to start with low-intensity exercises such as walking, yoga, and stretching, and gradually increase the amount of activity according to the body's recovery. Outdoor activities can also increase sunlight exposure, which is beneficial for regulating circadian rhythms and improving mood. Exercise should be done within one's capacity, so as not to feel tired.

V. Medication Treatment

If the psychological response develops into clinically diagnosed depression or anxiety, and the effect of psychological regulation and social support is limited, medication treatment needs to be considered after a comprehensive evaluation by a psychiatrist or mental health specialist. Drug therapy usually targets moderate to severe symptoms, and doctors may prescribe medication based on specific circumstances. For example, fluoxetine hydrochloride capsules and sertraline hydrochloride tablets used to improve depressive mood, as well as lorazepam tablets and alprazolam tablets used to alleviate anxiety. All medications must be strictly used according to medical advice and cannot be purchased or adjusted in dosage. Doctors will evaluate the benefits and risks and inform potential precautions. After induced abortion, besides paying attention to psychological adjustment, physical recovery is equally important. Within one month after surgery, attention should be paid to rest, avoiding heavy physical labor and intense exercise, keeping the perineum clean, and following medical advice for follow-up to confirm the recovery of the uterus. In terms of diet, it is important to ensure a balanced nutrition and consume foods rich in high-quality protein, iron, and vitamins, such as lean meat, animal liver, dark green vegetables, etc., to supplement qi and blood and promote physical recovery. Give yourself enough time and patience to view this experience as a special period that requires care and gradually rebuild physical and mental balance. If negative emotions continue to worsen and there is a strong sense of self blame, worthlessness, or even thoughts of harming oneself, it is necessary to seek professional medical help immediately.