After an abortion many women experience emotional difficulties that can be classified as Post Abortive Stress Syndrome (PASS).

What is PASS?
Post Abortive Stress Syndrome (PASS) is a psychological response of strong negative emotions that a woman may experience after having an abortion.  Some women experience it immediately following an abortion and for others, it may begin many years later.

PASS Symptoms:
· Guilt
· Anxiety—Tension, inability to relax, irritability, difficulty concentrating,
  disturbed sleep, and physical response (upset stomach, pounding heart,
  headaches, etc.)
· Relationship problems
· Avoiding situations or objects that remind women of pregnancy or children
· Psychological “numbing”
· Depression— sudden and uncontrollable crying episodes, deterioration of self-concept,
  disruption in interpersonal relationships, and appetite and sexual disturbances
· Suicidal thoughts
· Re-experiencing abortion— flashbacks and nightmares
· Fertility Fears— preoccupation with becoming pregnant , anxiety over fertility and
  childbearing issues
· Interruption of the bonding process— with present and/or  future children
· Self-Abusive Behaviors— eating disorders, alcohol and/or drug abuse, and
  self punishing or degrading behaviors such as cutting or promiscuity
· Anniversary Reaction—increased symptoms around the time of the anniversary
  of the abortion

How We Can Help:
With an attitude of sensitivity and support, post abortive women will be allowed to speak about their abortion and be given an opportunity to openly grieve, mourn, question, and be angry. As peer counselors, we do not provide therapy but offer a Bible Study entitled, Forgiven and Set Free, by Linda Chochrane. The study was created for women who have experienced regret or remorse because of their abortion. The author’s personal experience with abortion inspired her to seek healing and share her source of healing with others.

We will provide professional counseling referrals for the post-abortive woman as she requests or as required. The choice for emotional and spiritual healing is strictly hers alone as we strive to maintain an honest relationship.  

Client Quotes:
“I never would have imagined that I could pick up the pieces from my mistakes and learn and grow from them. I couldn’t have done it without your encouragement and prayers.”

"I have no regrets because I know that God makes everything work for the good of those who truly trust Him. I know I had to experience everything that I did to bring me where I am today.”

"There are no words to describe how thankful I am for your comfort and support, and mostly, introducing me to God during the most painful time in my life.”

Poem
“Little One”
I knew before I should have,
That a change was taking place.
And when I saw that faint blue line
A smile crossed my face.
A part of me was hoping
That my instincts would be true
And sure enough it was confirmed
Just what I already knew.
I knew that we could do it
I was just a little scared
This coaster of emotions
I knew that I could fare.
I was going to be a mommy
Something I had often thought about
And I would protect my baby
There simply was no doubt.  
So what happened one week later
I really can’t explain
It’s the reason for this writing
And my devastating pain.
I made a sudden choice
That would change my life forever
I suddenly decided
That I couldn’t be your mother.
I am so sorry “little one”
That I gave up on you
I hope you can forgive me
And know that I love you.
--CMPS Client—