Understanding women's physical and emotional experiences following medication abortion in china: a qualitative study...

Medication abortion (MA) is legally accessible and commonly practiced in China; however, limited qualitative research has explored women's physical and emotional experiences in this context. Understanding these experiences is crucial for improving clinical care and social support. This study aimed to explore the physical and emotional responses of Chinese women following MA using the Writing Express Method.

We conducted a qualitative study involving 30 women who underwent MA between January and June 2023 at a tertiary hospital in southern China. Participants completed written narratives in response to six open-ended prompts. Data collection was continued until thematic saturation was achieved. Three independent researchers with clinical and qualitative training conducted reflexive thematic analysis. Data were managed and coded manually using Excel spreadsheets, and themes were developed through iterative discussion and consensus.

Participants reported diverse experiences organized into three domains of inquiry: (1) physical responses to MA, including pain, bleeding, and fatigue; (2) emotional reactions such as fear, sadness, guilt, and relief; and (3) coping strategies and sources of support. Most participants described moderate to severe pain and prolonged bleeding, while some reported minimal physical discomfort. Many women expressed feelings of guilt and self-blame, whereas a few described relief after the procedure. Sources of support included family, friends, and online resources, though some participants noted stigma and lack of professional counseling.

Women's physical and emotional experiences following MA in China are multifaceted and shaped by both biomedical and sociocultural factors. These findings highlight the need for integrating psychological support into post-abortion care and for public health initiatives aimed at reducing abortion-related stigma.