Culture tells society that abortion is not a big deal and that you can simply go on with your life just as before. Yet, reality doesn’t agree. It’s extremely difficult for women to discuss their negative feelings following their abortion; and they often have a hard time identifying the root of their feelings. However as difficult as it for women, it can be even more difficult for men.
Why?
Men are told this is a women’s issue. That it’s her body and her choice. Yet, this is his child as well. The baby is a part of him and it’s understandable that men would be greatly affected by their partner’s abortion decision.
Some men pressure their partner into having an abortion, some wanted their baby but the decision was out of their control, and some men didn’t even know their partner was pregnant and were unaware she had an abortion until later. Despite the reasoning, most men find themselves struggling with a past abortion in their lives.
I will never forget the day one man said to me with tears in his eyes, “My girlfriend had an abortion 41 years ago and I think about it every day of my life.” So how are men affected, you ask? Here are just some of the effects*:
- 69% of men reported moderate to high stress following their partner’s abortion
- 4 in 10 men experienced PTSD symptoms up to 15 years post abortion
- 88% experienced grief and sadness
- 82% experienced guilt
- 77% experienced anger
- 64% experienced anxiety
- 68% experienced isolation
- 31% experienced helplessness
- 40% experienced sexual problems
- Others experienced depression and repressed emotions
The Church is the conduit for healing. Scripture tells us that by “his stripes we are healed” (Is 53:5). There is only one place that individuals can find healing from their past abortion – it is solely through the power of Jesus Christ. It’s time we set the captives free!!!!
*Statistics from Live Action. https://www.instagram.com/p/CkvpZAurCoO/?igshid=MDJmNzVkMjY%3D
