A percepção de mulheres que vivenciaram abortamento induzido: alívio e saúde mental

ABSTRACT | INTRODUCTION: Reproductive health literature has traditionally linked abortion to mental disorders. However, recent studies point to an association between abortion and a sense of relief. OBJECTIVE: To describe the emotional experiences of Brazilian women undergoing abortion for unwanted pregnancies and to determine—based on their perceptions—whether these experiences have a positive or negative impact on mental health. METHOD: A mixed-methods (qualitative-quantitative) study involving the descriptive analysis of an online survey. Data from 69 completed questionnaires were analyzed; participants were women over the age of 18 who had undergone at least one clandestine induced abortion. Quantitative analysis was performed using SPSS to determine frequencies, percentages, and correlations. The qualitative component involved an interpretive thematic content analysis of the questionnaire's open-ended questions. Mental health indicators included the ability to harmonize desires, ideas, and impulses; to work productively and collaboratively; and to cope with daily life challenges without becoming overwhelmed. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Relief was the most frequently reported post-abortion emotion; an association was found between the experience of relief and well-being, alongside a positive response to life's demands. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: This study aligns with recent research finding no link between induced abortion and mental disorders; instead, it indicates positive mental health outcomes, even amidst circumstances of insecurity and threats to health and life. It is worth noting that the criminalization of abortion imposes limitations on research in the fields of mental and reproductive health; however, these challenges must be addressed through further studies.