Abortion and Mental Health and Wellbeing: A Contemporary Review of the Literature

Overview

Journal Curr Psychiatry Rep

Publisher Current Science

Specialty Psychiatry

Date 2024 Oct 28

PMID 39465455

Authors

Megan Masten

Olivia Campbell

Sarah Horvath

Leilah Zahedi-Spung

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Purposeof Review: This review discusses the importance of abortion care and access for mental wellbeing for people seeking abortion, abortion providers, and trainees. The recent Dobbs v. Jackson case has jeopardized the physical and mental health of millions.

Recent Findings: Much of the data regarding mental health impacts of abortion access comes from the Turnaway Study. This study supports that abortion does not cause negative mental health effects and being denied abortion is detrimental to mental health, physical health, and has negative socioeconomic impacts. Other recent studies support that the Dobbs decision continues to disproportionately harm historically marginalized groups. Additionally, there is more anxiety and depression reported in states with abortion restrictions. Many obstetrician gynecologists are moving away from restricted states and report moral distress due to restrictions. Many medical students are choosing not to apply to obstetrics and gynecology residency programs in states with abortion restrictions. Access to abortion care is important for mental and physical health, and socioeconomic well-being for people seeking abortion. Restrictive bans negatively affect people seeking abortion, as well as healthcare providers and trainees.

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