The Effects of MTP on Mental Health - Indian Perspective

22-Oct-2023

The effects of medical termination of pregnancy on mental health: A look at the statistics in India

Medical termination of pregnancy (MTP), also known as abortion, is a safe and legal procedure in India. However, it can have a significant impact on a woman's mental health.

A study published in the Indian Journal of Psychiatry found that women who had undergone MTP were more likely to experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than women who had not. The study also found that the risk of mental health problems was higher among women who had unwanted pregnancies or who had experienced complications during the MTP procedure.

In India, the number of MTPs has been increasing in recent years. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), the percentage of women aged 15-49 who have ever had an abortion increased from 5.4% in 2015-16 to 6.8% in 2019-21. The survey also found that the percentage of women who had an abortion in the last 12 months increased from 1.5% in 2015-16 to 2.0% in 2019-21.

The increase in the number of MTPs is likely due to a number of factors, including increased access to safe abortion services, greater awareness of reproductive rights, and changes in social attitudes towards abortion. However, the increase in the number of MTPs is also likely to have an impact on the mental health of women in India.

The mental health effects of MTP can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the woman's age, her reasons for having an abortion, her support network, and her cultural background. However, some of the most common mental health problems associated with MTP include:

These mental health problems can be short-lived or they can last for many years. In some cases, they can even lead to suicidal thoughts or behaviors.

If you have had an MTP and are experiencing mental health problems, it is important to seek professional help. A mental health professional can help you to understand and cope with the emotional effects of your abortion. They can also provide you with support and guidance as you move forward.

It is also important to remember that you are not alone. Many women experience mental health problems after having an abortion. There are support groups and resources available to help you cope with the emotional effects of your abortion.