Physiological and Psychological Effects of Abortion on Women1.0 Introduction There are many topics surrounding the abortion debate. One issue related to abortion that has not been explored very thoroughly is the issue of post-abortion syndrome. This article will examine the psychological and physiological effects of abortion on women who have had it, later in life. This article dealing with abortion will not explore either side of the abortion debate because to do so would introduce bias. This article will look at the physical complications and problems resulting from abortions. This article will also examine the mystery of post-abortion syndrome and outline the symptoms, causes, criteria and treatments of the disorder itself. In a recent study conducted in Buffalo, more than 400 women were questioned two years after having an abortion, and it was found that only seven in ten were happy with their decision, 12% were unsure and 19% regretted it. (Western Report 1998, 29) There has been debate in the past about the mere existence of post-abortion stress disorder, this article will dispel that confusion. 2.0 Literature Review 2.1 Psychological Effects of Abortion It has been found that there are many emotional aspects that can affect the psychological well-being of women who undergo an abortion. These emotions include guilt, anxiety, depression, loss, anger, and even suicide. Clinical research has found that when women experience trusting and sharing relationships, they report deeply rooted feelings of exploitation during their abortion experience. (Alliance Action Inc 1993, 1) One woman reports: "I was unprepared for the maze of emotions that hit me after undergoing the procedure. Instead of feeling relieved, I... middle of paper... ..t, 01/ 12/98: 257. M.Rue, Vincint. Post-abortion syndrome; Diagnostic criteria, 19898. Michelle C. "Don't make my mistakes" She's a Child, 19969. The National Post Office - Reconciliation of abortion and Healing Impact of Abortion on the Family; IRLF Newsletter, 199310. Ranalli, Paul. “Abortion and Breast Cancer: Why Ignore the Connection?”.11 Literature Review2.1 Psychological Effects of Abortion2.1.1 Symptoms of Post-Abortion Syndrome2 .1.2 Causes of post-abortion syndrome2.1.3 Diagnostic criteria for post-abortion syndrome2.1.4 Treatments for post-abortion stress disorder2.2 Physiological effects of abortion2.2.1 Miscarriages2.2.2 Infertility/Ectopic pregnancies2.2.3 Breast cancer breast2.3 Conclusion