Abstract
Main ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to explore women's expectations and experiences of undergoing second trimester abortion.MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study using a screening questionnaire and semi-structured interviews for data collection. Thirty-one women filled out the questionnaire and 23 of them were later interviewed. The questionnaires were analyzed by descriptive statistics. The interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analyzed with qualitative content analysis.Most Important FindingsIndications for the abortion were fetal malformation or unintended pregnancy. The women expressed similar feelings and these were irrespective for the reason for having an abortion. Both physical and mental pain was experienced during the abortion process and described by the women. Taking the mifepristone-pill was experienced as especially emotionally difficult for many participants. Professional support from the staff together with support from the partner, a friend or relative helped in transforming the worries related to something unknown to feelings of coping with a new and hard experience. Prior to the abortion most women stated that they did not want to view the fetus but women who chose to view the fetus described this as a way of confronting the reality and an opportunity to say farewell to the pregnancy/fetus. The analysis of the interview transcripts revealed five themes mirroring the women's experiences, thoughts and feelings related to the abortion.ConclusionsThe decision to undergo second trimester abortion sometimes exposes women to strong and conflicting emotions which are irrespective for the reason for having an abortion. Despite this women do not regret their decision to terminate the pregnancy. This analysis shows that their rational thinking outweighs their emotionally difficult feelings. It is important for the attending staff to be responsive to the needs of each individual woman whatever the indication is for the abortion.
Highlights
In Sweden around 30000 to 38000 abortions occur yearly since the liberation of the abortion law in 1975
Prior to the abortion feelings of guilt were as common among women with unintended pregnancy as among women who had the abortion for fetal reasons
Feelings or thoughts before, during and after the abortion is a way of increasing the satisfaction with care for women undergoing second trimester abortion
Summary
In Sweden around 30000 to 38000 abortions occur yearly since the liberation of the abortion law in 1975. Some women having an induced abortion show high levels of psychological distress prior to the abortion [1] but levels of anxiety decrease significantly after the procedure [2]. Both positive and negative emotional experiences are seen in connection with the abortion [3, 4]. Women may have concerns regarding waiting time for the abortion treatment, emotional aspects of the process, hospital environment and care [6] as well as existential thoughts and reflections about life, death and morality [7]
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