Abortion link to mental illness dismissed
Friday December 9th, 2011
Experts today rejected claims that women who choose to have an abortion expose themselves to mental health problems.
British
experts said they had conducted the "most comprehensive and systematic"
review into the subject so far.
The findings, compiled by the Royal College of Psychiatrists, are published by the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges.
The researchers analysed some 44 studies.
They conclude that women who have an unwanted pregnancy face increased mental health problems - but the rates of these is not affected by whether a woman has an abortion or gives birth.
They find that women may suffer from poor mental health after an abortion if she has been pressurised by a partner to undergo the procedure or if she believes abortion to be wrong or undesirable.
Other stressful life events may also contribute, they say.
Consultant perinatal psychiatrist Dr Roch Cantwell, who led the research, said: "Women who are carrying an unwanted pregnancy should be reassured that current evidence shows they are no more likely to experience mental health problems if they decide to have an abortion than if they decide to give birth."
The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists welcomed the findings.
Dr Kate Guthrie, of the college, said the college urged "service providers to inform women about the range of emotional responses that may be experienced during and following an abortion."
She said: "It is important that all women, and particularly those with a history of previous mental health problems, are offered appropriate support and if needed follow-up.
"It is essential that healthcare workers identify women that are vulnerable in any way and offer the appropriate aftercare."
Academy chair Professor Sir Neil Douglas said: “The Academy recognises that this is a complex and controversial area, where there have been many conflicting research findings."
Tags: Childbirth and Pregnancy | Mental Health | UK News | Women’s Health & Gynaecology
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