Each person responds to having an abortion differently.

Some will feel relief whereas others may find they experience thoughts and emotions they did not anticipate.  The impact of abortion is unique to each person and is influenced by their personal story. At First Place Options we recognize that some will experience abortion as a childbearing loss, a grief issue, a stressor, or for some a traumatic event.  

You may feel grief, sadness, confusion, or perhaps something else that is difficult: if you do, you are not alone. At First Place Options, we understand the complexity and unique response to abortion whether within days, weeks, months, or even years after an abortion. We use a grief lens to help you explore and process the various elements of grief that you may be experiencing.  Grief can be defined as “the conflicting group of human emotions caused by an end to or change in a familiar pattern of behaviour.” (John W. James & Russell Friedman, The Grief Recovery Handbook) .”   The change may take place in a relationship with a person, a place, an event, or perhaps the way you think about yourself. Grief is a process rather than an emotion.

If you have any need to seek support following an abortion, we are here to help. There is no right or wrong way to grieve. Your feelings are real, and it’s important to give yourself permission to have them.  

How do I know if After Abortion Counselling is for me?

If you are struggling after your abortion(s), we want you to know that you are not alone. Some women feel it is helpful to talk about their experience but find it difficult to find a safe place to do so. 

For that reason, First Place Options offers an eight-week, one-on-one, After Abortion Support program. It does not matter how recent, or how long ago your abortion(s) occurred. We will help you process and work through your difficult thoughts and feelings by talking, asking questions, and giving you tools to use in your journey to move forward. Healing is possible, and you are worth it.

All support is offered free of charge, is confidential, and can be in-person or virtual.

Please contact us if you would like to book an appointment to speak with a peer counselor to discuss After Abortion Support.

PARTNER SUPPORT AFTER ABORTION

If your partner had an abortion, it is possible that you may experience a wide range of feelings as a result of the experience. It is not uncommon for you, as the partner, to feel grief, sadness, confusion, or perhaps something else that is difficult.  At First Place OPTIONS, we want you to know that you matter and are not alone.

Whether it was a joint decision or not, and whether you were for or against the abortion or simply trying to be neutral about the decision at the time, we care about what you are going through. We understand that even reaching out for support can be a challenge.  We provide a safe place for you to explore your feelings in a confidential, non-judgemental, and supportive space.  Reach out to learn more about our one-on-one After Abortion Support for partners of women who have had an abortion.

 All support is offered at no charge and is available virtually or in person.