Healthcare Providers

In 2017, the Gallup Organization once again released its list of the most honest, ethical professions.  And, once again, those involved in healthcare (nurses, medical doctors and pharmacists) earn top spots.

If you are involved in healthcare, this means people may tell you things they do not tell others.  One of those things may be related to past abortion(s).  Your empathetic response to these revelations is critical.  In the same way that you extend compassionate responses to adverse diagnoses, difficult family situations or a devastating financial crisis, you can extend words and actions which can assure post-abortive individuals that you are a safe person.   Your manner will tell them you are not going to judge them and you are not so shocked or flustered by what they revealed that you ignore what they said or share empty platitudes.  Far better to simply say ‘I’m so sorry’ or ‘It sounds like that had a huge impact on your life.  Would you like to talk more about that?’.

Abortion is one of the most emotionally- and politically-charged issues in our nation.  Sometimes, our eyes just want to glaze over when the topic comes up.  As health care professionals, we can’t ignore issues that impact the health status of the people we care for.  While there are women who report no adverse consequences or regrets for a past abortion, many other women do. And, while some of the possibilities are extremely rare, that just doesn’t matter to the one who is affected.

Here’s a list of some of the potential after-effects:

• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Spotting, bleeding, heavy or persistent bleeding
• Infection or sepsis
• Damage to cervix, scarring of uterine lining, perforation of the uterus
• Damage to other organs
• Death
• Regret, guilt, shame, anger
• Sense of loneliness or isolation
• Loss of self-confidence
• Insomnia or nightmares
• Relationship issues
• Suicidal thoughts and feelings
• Eating disorders
• Depression, anxiety
• Substance abuse

Be prepared to listen and to suggest resources to aid healing and wholeness: books, websites, counselors, etc.  Regardless of your own personal opinions about abortion, the fact remains that thousands of women are impacted each year. Some of them may find their way to you looking for help.

We are Everywhere has developed a helpful resources that is easy to use in any setting. Get your free copy below.

Contact us if we can help you create a safe place for post-abortive women in your practice.