Abortion Counselling
Deciding whether to continue or end a pregnancy is one of the most personal and often complex decisions a person can face. Whatever the circumstances, or whatever you decide, many people experience a wide mix of emotions before, during and after an abortion. It remains a topic surrounded by silence and judgement in many communities, which can leave people feeling very alone with their experience. I offer a private, non-judgemental space in Singapore or online to help you think things through and process your feelings, at whatever stage of this journey you are in.
Why People Seek Abortion Counselling
If you are weighing up a decision about an unplanned or complicated pregnancy, counselling can offer a calm, confidential space to think things through without pressure. Together we can explore your circumstances, your values, your fears and your hopes for the future, so that whatever you decide feels like an informed choice that is truly your own, rather than one made in panic or isolation.
Support does not stop once a decision has been made. Many people also seek counselling after an abortion, to process the emotions that can follow, whether that is relief, grief, guilt, or a mixture of feelings that is hard to put into words. Whatever brings you here, this is a space where your experience will be met with care and without judgement.
This isn’t only for the person who is pregnant. Partners, family members, and friends supporting someone through this experience are also welcome to reach out. Working out how best to support someone you love through this kind of decision, or its aftermath, can bring its own worry and uncertainty, and that is something we can also work through together.
Reasons People Reach Out for Abortion Counselling
People come to counselling around abortion for many different reasons, and there is no single story that applies to everyone. Some of the most common reasons include:
Abortions can naturally be controversion for religious, ethical and other reasons. Reasons to reach out for support include difficulties telling loved ones, and wanting a confidential in which to talk about the decision and come to peace with the difficult decision. Whatever led you here, you deserve support that is thoughtful and free of judgement.
Common Misconceptions About Abortion Counselling
There is no single “right” way to feel about an abortion, whatever the circumstances. It is a misconception that people only feel relief, or that feeling unsure or grieving means the decision was wrong. It is also untrue that needing support means something is wrong with you, or that counselling is only for people who regret their decision.
Everyone’s experience is different, and there is no timeline you are expected to follow for how you should think or feel afterwards. If any of these feelings are affecting your daily life, relationships or sense of wellbeing, speaking with a psychologist can help you make sense of them, without judgement.
Signs You Might Benefit From Support
- Persistent guilt, shame, or grief
- Difficulty concentrating or sleeping
- Strain in relationships with a partner or family
- Feeling isolated or unable to talk to anyone about it
Common Reactions After an Abortion
- Relief mixed with sadness or grief
- Difficulty moving forward or making peace with the decision
If at any point these feelings start to feel overwhelming, or you are having thoughts of harming yourself, please reach out for support straight away. You do not have to go through this alone, and help is available whenever you need it.
What Are the Emotional Impacts of Abortion?
An abortion can bring up a wide range of feelings, from relief and calm to sadness, guilt, anger, anxiety, or numbness, sometimes all within the same day. Some people feel very little afterwards and get on with life much as before, while others are surprised by how deeply it affects them.
Your response is valid, whatever it looks like. Feelings can come in waves and may resurface around anniversaries, future pregnancies, or unrelated reminders. Some people also feel pressure to hide how they feel, whether that means pretending to be fine when they are struggling, or hiding relief because they feel they are expected to be sad.
Emotional wellbeing matters just as much as physical recovery, and seeking professional support through psychological therapy or counselling can ease the journey. Therapy can help you process complex or conflicting emotions and work through the longer-term impact of this experience, whatever that looks like for you.
What Are Some Healthy Ways to Cope After an Abortion?
Healing after an abortion takes time, compassion, and patience with yourself.
Allow for your emotions
Allow yourself to feel whatever arises, there is no single "right way" to feel after an abortion.
Be kind to yourself
Rest when you need to, and avoid self-blame. Whatever led to this decision, you deserve compassion, not judgment.
Talk to Your Partner
Partners or loved ones may process things differently. Open, honest conversation can help you stay connected through it.
Create a Personal Ritual
If it feels right for you, small rituals like writing a letter or journaling your thoughts can offer a sense of closure.
Take Care of Your Physical Health
Eat well, rest, and follow your doctor's guidance to support your physical recovery.
Seek Support
Talking to a counsellor, joining a support group, or confiding in someone you trust can make a real difference.
Need Help For Yourself or Someone You Care About?
Reach out to understand how we can help.
Q. What are the other services Dr. Amrit Kaur offers in Singapore and online?
- Psychological Therapy for Anxiety or Anxiety Disorders
- Psychological Care and Support for Borderline Personality Disorder
- Counselling for Burnout
- Counselling for Pregnancy and Pregnancy Loss
- Grief and Bereavement Counselling
- Psychological Support for Successful Co-parenting
- Psychological Support after a Divorce or Breakup
- Somatic Therapy
- Psychological Therapy for Health or Illness-related Anxiety
- Therapy After Child or Adult Sexual Abuse
- Counselling and Support for Menopause and Peri-menopause
- Social Anxiety Treatment
- Panic Attack Treatment
- Specific Phobias Counselling
- Therapy for Complex PTSD
- Counselling for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their Families
- ADHD Treatment and Diagnosis
- Assessment and Treatment of Depression