Cathy Seapy

Abortion, LivingWell

After Abortion Care

In today’s society, abortion is a highly discussed topic. However, one crucial aspect of abortion that is frequently overlooked is the emotional effects it can have on women. The aftermath of abortion can negatively affect mental well-being, relationships, and even personal identity. It is important to recognize that, for some, the journey doesn’t end with the abortion procedure – it can be the beginning of a new emotional path. This is why it’s essential to be aware of after abortion care.

What is after abortion care?

Emotional aftercare following an abortion is very important but is often less discussed. Many women experience a range of emotions after the procedure, including sadness, guilt, regret, or relief. It’s essential to acknowledge that emotional healing is a process. It’s important to reach out and find support. This might include talking to a counselor, connecting with support groups, or relying on close friends and family. Really take time to process what you are feeling. Understanding that it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions can help women process their experience in a healthy way, providing the space and resources to heal both mentally and emotionally.

After abortion care can look different for everyone. Finding what helps you process your experience the best is a crucial part of healing.

What are some emotions women may struggle with after an abortion?

Some emotions or experiences that women may struggle with include:

  • Anxiety
  • Anger
  • Regret
  • Depression
  • Drug or alcohol use
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Lack of sleep
  • Nightmares
  • Intense grief on the anniversary of the abortion or the due date of the aborted pregnancy
  • Denial
  • Withdrawal from others
  • Irritation

These emotions can have a strong negative affect on a woman and her life. That is why it’s so important to seek healing.

How we can help.

Any woman who has made an abortion decision is vulnerable to these feelings. Whether the abortion was last month or ten years ago, the impact is the same. If you have struggled after making your abortion decision, know that you are not alone. Many women face emotional challenges after an abortion. We offer a weekend of hope and healing at our HOPE Retreat.

During our weekend HOPE Retreat, we gather as a small group of 5-8 who have experienced the struggle with an abortion decision. Together we will process painful thoughts and emotions like guilt, anger, unforgiveness, regret or depression. Healing and restored hope are possible!

You can register for our next retreat by calling us at (530)-272-6800 or by visiting our website at this link: https://livingwellmedicalclinic.com/abortion-recovery/

LivingWell, Pregnancy, Relationships

Ways to Support Your Pregnant Friend

Have you ever felt like you wanted to help your pregnant friend but didn’t know how? As a supportive friend, you want to be there for her every step of the way, even if you don’t know where to start. Pregnancy can be a beautiful and life-changing experience, but it can also be difficult and physically challenging. By supporting her in thoughtful and practical ways, you can make a real difference in your friend’s pregnancy journey and help her feel seen and loved.

So, what are some ways you can help your friend during her pregnancy? Let’s find out.

Help With Chores and Tasks

Pregnancy can make simple tasks harder than they were before, especially as you get closer to your due date. Offering a helping hand with chores around the house can relieve stress for your friend and help her relax in a clean and tidy space.

Another task you can assist with is running errands. When you’re pregnant, it can be difficult to run errands, especially if you already have kids. Having someone think of you and pick up the things you need can make all the difference for your friend.

Be a Listening Ear

Being a good listener can mean the world to someone going through pregnancy. Sometimes all they need is someone to listen without judgement. Be a source of comfort for your friend as she navigates this new phase of her life. Even if you don’t fully understand everything that she talks about, listening and affirming can still make your friend feel validated in her emotions.

Cook Meals

Cooking or preparing meals for your friend can save her a lot of time. Pregnancy can bring fatigue and morning sickness, making it more difficult to prepare food. If you do make meals for her, add ingredients that have good nutrition. Eating balanced meals can help maintain and support a healthy pregnancy.

Offer Company

Whether it’s going shopping or going to a doctor’s appointment together, offering company for your friend’s errand can help her not feel lonely in her pregnancy journey. If she’s comfortable with it, it can be soothing to have a friend nearby. It also gives an opportunity to help her with simple things like carrying groceries or transportation.

Help With Preparations

There are so many different things you can help your friend prepare for the arrival of her little one. You can help organize her nursery by unpacking clothes and constructing furniture. You can also assist with packing her hospital bag as she gets closer to her due date. Ask your friend how you can help her organize and prepare!

Every pregnancy journey is different, but support is needed in every single one. Being supportive not only strengthens your bond with your friend but can make her pregnancy experience easier and more enjoyable. Whether it’s practical help or emotional encouragement, your kindness will mean the world to her!

How We Can Help

If you or a friend are pregnant and in need of support, LivingWell is here for you. We offer pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and option consultations at no cost to you! Schedule an appointment with us today by clicking here, calling us at (530) 272-6800 or texting us at (530) 802-0858.

Cathy Seapy

CEO

The content on this page has been reviewed and approved by our CEO.

LivingWell, Relationships

Five Resolutions for the New Year

As you step into 2025, here are five resolutions you can make for a healthier you!

Take Care of Yourself

Whether it’s sleeping in, making a healthy meal, or going on a walk, setting time aside to care for yourself is a great way to rejuvenate. Along with meeting physical needs, it’s important to meet your emotional needs as well. This can look different for each unique person. However, one way to take care of yourself that is the same for everyone is to make healthy decisions. Making choices that keep you safe and healthy are the best way to care for your physical, emotional, and mental needs.

Evaluate Your Relationships

Do the people around you support you and make you feel uplifted? Do they make you happy and inspire you to grow? If not, it may be time to re-evaluate your relationships. Surround yourself with people who make you feel loved. Healthy relationships are more important than you may think! By having good relationships and friendships, you may find that you’ll be happier and feel more supported.

Experience Something New

You don’t need to do something as drastic as cliff diving – unless that’s something you want to do! Picking up a new hobby or trying something you never have before can add a sense of adventure to your new year. You might discover something you enjoy that you never would’ve found if you hadn’t tried it. Who knows?

Build Yourself Up

Stop comparing yourself to others! Thinking about what other people have will only discourage you. Recognize the beauty and uniqueness of you! Once you stop competing with others, you’ll be more confident. You’ll see the value that you have and the special traits that make you you!

Set New Goals

What are you hoping to achieve this year? What do you want to accomplish? Once you know, make that your goal for this year. Whether it’s twenty goals or just one, they are all equally important. Make a list of all of the things that you’re hoping to achieve this year. This will give you something to work towards and a sense of accomplishment each time you reach your goals!

How We Can Help

If you are resolving to make healthy decisions this new year and find yourself wanting to get tested for STIs or pregnancy, LivingWell is here to help you. We offer pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and STI/STD testing at no cost to you. Schedule an appointment with us today by clicking here, calling us at (530) 272-6800 or texting us at (530) 802-0858.

Cathy Seapy

CEO

The content on this page has been reviewed and approved by our CEO.