Abortion Hurts

Chronic Illness

More than 40% of American women of reproductive age have had at least one abortion.  Almost two-thirds of these women will show signs of psychological trauma as a result.  At least one in four will develop chronic stress known as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.   They and their physicians may not be aware that their psychological trauma can manifest itself in physical illnesses, particularly those that involve chronic and disabling pain.  The trauma of abortion, whether it is considered a positive or negative experience, can leave neuropsychological damage in the brain of the trauma victim.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Chronic stress in its extreme form is known as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).  Chronic stress such as that found in PTSD has been linked to the development of these, and other, painfully debilitating (some potentially fatal) disorders, such as: Artheriosclerosis, Autoimmune Disorders, Lupus, Multiple Sclerosis, Cancer, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Diabetes, Fibromyalgia, Heart Disease, High Cholesterol, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Colitis, Migraines, Myofascial Pain, Reflex Sympathetic Disorder, Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome, Whiplash Syndrome.  The National Institute of Mental Health advises physicians to inquire about their patients' traumatic histories if they suffer unrelenting physical complications such as those listed.  Fifty percent of all women who have had abortions will never tell anyone - not even their doctors.

Tell your Doctor

Ask your Patient

Physical and neuropsychological symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder induced by abortion include:

·         Aggravated premenstrual syndrome

·         Aggression or anger

·         Anorexia

·         Back pain and spasms

·         Blurred vision

·         Chronic fatigue

·         Clumsiness

·         Confusion

·         Dental pain

·         Difficulty swallowing

·         Digestive and urinary disturbances

·         Eating disorders

·         Exaggerated startle response

·         Headaches

·         Impaired breathing

·         Insomnia

·         Intrusive thoughts, obsessive-compulsive disorder

·         Joint pain and stiffness

·         Lack of coordination

·         Memory impairment

·         Muscle pain and stiffness

·         Muscle spasms

·         Muscle weakness

·         Nightmares

·         Numbness and tingling 

·         Obesity

·         Panic attacks

·         Paraesthesia 

·         Pelvic pain

·         Racing heart (cardiac arrhythmia)

·         Rash

·         Sensitivity to light and/or sound

·         Substance abuse (alcohol, drugs)

·         Tender points

·         Tremors

·         Vertigo (dizziness)