We often hear the message echoed in our culture that women — and men — don’t regret their abortions.
But the reality is often far more complex. Many individuals are never invited to reflect on their experience in a safe and supportive environment. Without that space, the trauma stays buried, and healing feels out of reach.
I recall a powerful series of interviews conducted as part of an emotional research study in partnership with the national Vitae Foundation. Women who had experienced abortion were invited to share their stories in a setting marked by warmth, gentleness and care.
After a few gentle introductions, the interviewer would lead them through a short, meditative exercise — inviting them to relax, close their eyes and return in their minds to the time before their abortion.
What began with calm often turned quickly to raw emotion. Tears would come. Their stories poured out — memories, regrets and wounds that had not been spoken of in years. For many, it was the first time they were able to acknowledge the grief and loss they had carried for so long in silence.
Nearly every woman in the study shared a similar experience. When asked about their decision, most were conflicted by a range of emotions — pain, confusion and a longing for peace. Most had no idea that help was available, or that healing was even possible.
But there is good news.
Almost every participant was open to receiving support and expressed a desire for resources to be more visible — through doctors, therapists and even insurance providers. Many were surprised to learn that the church offers confidential, compassionate healing through Project Rachel after abortion care.
As we celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday April 27, please join us in pounding heaven for the moms, dads, grandparents, siblings and other loved ones walking around with this wound. Pray that through partnerships with churches, health care providers, and insurance providers, we can introduce the topic of after abortion support, helping to increase access and reduce barriers to after abortion care. Finally, please pray that those who have experienced abortions will turn to their loving Redeemer who wants to heal all their wounds and bring them everlasting peace.
LaPierre is diocesan director of Project Rachel after abortion care.
Find out more
Call Project Rachel’s confidential helpline at 703-841-2504 or go to helpafterabortion.org.
