As part of the teen pregnancy series we have been posting it is important that we cover all choices, and the consequences of teen pregnancy choices. This post will cover the consequences of abortion.
The main reasons teenagers choose abortion are: (1) They are concerned about how having a baby is going to change their life. (2) Concerns that the teen is at a level of maturity to be a parent. (3) Concern over whether they will be able to financially support a baby.
Abortion statistics show almost 40 percent of teen pregnancies end in abortion. The consequences do not end just because the pregnancy has ended. As with any medical procedure there is always a health risk, and complications could occur. Most abortions are performed by healthcare professionals in medical facilities which are considered fairly safe. However, because abortion is such a controversial issue there are some clinics that are not completely certified, so you should do research to make sure you use a reputable clinic. The consequences associated with teen pregnancy ending in abortion has a lot to do with a teen's belief system and attitudes. Teens who believe a fetus is just an extension of their body and not a life, are less likely to suffer long-term emotional consequences from an abortion.
Initially teens feel a sense of relief that the ordeal is over. When a pregnancy ends in abortion, it is certainly easier to continue with life without peers even knowing, as opposed to a pregnant teen who chooses to keep the baby or give the baby up for adoption. However, teenagers often feel a sense of remorse at some point in their lives. The consequences teens may feel emotionally because of their choice to terminate teen pregnancies include shame, guilt, remorse and clinical depression. The idea that a life was terminated at a teen's discretion can be an emotionally traumatic experience.
