Practicing Self-Care After an Abortion

Avail NYC exists to be a safe haven for women and men facing an unexpected pregnancy or seeking support after an abortion. We are not a medical provider.

Healing after an abortion is a deeply personal journey. No two experiences are the same, and the emotions that follow can be complex. You may feel relief, sadness, grief, uncertainty, or even numbness. Whatever you are feeling, know that your emotions are valid, and you do not have to process them alone.

Taking time to care for yourself is an important part of healing. Self-care is not just about comfort. It is about giving yourself space to process, reflect, and restore.

Caring for yourself in meaningful, intentional ways can help you feel more grounded and supported as you move forward. If you are unsure where to begin, talk with an Avail advocate and consider these simple but meaningful ways to care for yourself in this season.

Create a Safe and Comforting Space

Your space around you can have a powerful impact on how you feel. When your environment is cluttered or chaotic, your emotions may feel the same way.

Simple changes can help bring a sense of calm and stability.

• Soften the lighting in your home.
• Add a cozy blanket to your favorite chair.
• Light a candle with a scent that brings comfort.

If certain objects or reminders feel overwhelming, it is okay to put them away for now. You deserve a space that feels peaceful and safe.

Spending time outside can also help. A short walk in nature, sitting in a quiet park, or just opening a window can help restore your sense of calm and clarity. Even if you don’t feel like doing much, surrounding yourself with a comforting space can be a gentle way to support yourself.

Prioritize Rest Without Guilt

Rest is an essential part of healing, yet it can be difficult to allow yourself to slow down. Your mind may feel full, or daily responsibilities may make it seem impossible to pause. Even so, choosing to rest is one of the kindest things you can do for yourself.

If you have been struggling with sleep, creating a simple nighttime routine may help. Setting your phone aside before bed, listening to soft music, or reading something calming can make it easier to unwind. If your thoughts feel overwhelming, writing them down in a journal may help ease your mind.

Rest is not only about sleep. It is also about allowing yourself moments of stillness and deep breaths. Take time to rest in a way that feels right for you. If you need a day to step back, without pressure or expectations, it is okay to take that time. 

Healing happens in its own way and at its own pace. You do not have to rush it.

Journaling as a Gentle Way to Process

Writing can be a helpful way to process emotions. Sometimes, thoughts feel tangled in our minds, making it difficult to fully grasp what we are experiencing. Journaling gives you a private space to explore your thoughts without judgment.

You don’t need to write in full sentences or make everything sound perfect. If you’re unsure where to start, consider these prompts:

• What emotions have been coming up for me lately?
• What do I need to hear right now?
• What is one way I can show myself kindness today?

There is no right or wrong way to journal. Write as little or as much as you want. The simple act of putting your thoughts on paper can offer relief and self-understanding.

Be Mindful of What You Consume

The things we watch, read, and listen to can shape our emotions more than we realize. If certain movies, articles, or conversations feel overwhelming, give yourself permission to take a step back.

Social media can be particularly challenging. If scrolling leaves you feeling drained or triggered, consider taking a break or unfollowing accounts that no longer encourage you. Instead, seek out messages and content that help you feel supported.

Being mindful of what you consume also includes the conversations you engage in. If someone’s words feel dismissive or unkind, practice self-care by setting healthy boundaries. Your story is your own and worthy of protection.

Move in a Way That Feels Good for You

Movement can be a way to reconnect with your body and release tension, but it does not have to be intense or structured. Listen to your body and do what feels right for you. 

A short walk outside, stretching in the morning, or even swaying to soft music can help release mood-boosting endorphins. If your body feels tired, honor that. Restorative movement is about nourishment, not pressure.

If you prefer creative movement, consider trying out dance, yoga, or another form of expression that allows you to feel present. Moving your body, even in the smallest ways, can make a big difference.

Speak to Yourself with Kindness

The way you talk to yourself matters. It can be easy to be hard on yourself, to replay past choices, or to feel like you should be further along in your healing. But healing is not about following a timeline. It is about allowing yourself grace.

If you catch yourself in a swirl of negative thoughts, try shifting them to something kinder. Instead of thinking, "I should be over this by now," remind yourself, "Healing takes time, and I am allowed to go at my own pace." Instead of saying, "I am not strong enough," tell yourself, "I have already taken brave steps forward, and I will continue to grow."

You are not defined by your hardest moments. You are worthy of love, care, and compassion. Aim to be as gentle with yourself as you would be with a close friend.

Find Support at Avail NYC

No matter where you are in your healing journey, know that you do not have to figure it all out on your own. While it may feel difficult to reach out, talking with someone who understands can be incredibly meaningful. 

Avail NYC exists to provide a compassionate, confidential place for women and men to find clarity and healing after their abortion experience, no matter what they are feeling.

Whether you prefer a one-on-one conversation with an advocate or the sense of community found in our weekly post-abortion support group, support is available.



Avail NYC exists to be a safe haven for women and men facing an unexpected pregnancy or seeking support after an abortion. We are not a medical provider.

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