Silent Voices, Hidden Scars: A Case Study on Gen Z Women Who Underwent Abortion

Abstract

This study determined the experiences of two Generation Z women in Cebu who underwent abortion, focusing on understanding the underlying reasons behind their decision, the multifaceted impacts that followed, and the coping strategies they employed in response. According to Arshad et al. (2023), women’s abortion experiences are shaped by a combination of personal circumstances, societal pressures, and emotional responses, with coping mechanisms often emerging as a way to reconcile guilt, fear, and social stigma. Utilizing a qualitative case study approach, 2 participants participated in a semi- structured interview. Data collected were analyzed using Thematic Analysis to identify patterns of themes and codes among respondents. The findings highlighted the complexity of their experiences, from their reasons behind doing an abortion, the impacts and challenges to various dimensions of their health, to eventual acceptance and resilience. The results indicate that abortion among young Filipino women is not merely a medical act but a deeply emotional and moral experience influenced by cultural and religious values. The study concludes that abortion carries long-term psychological and spiritual effects, emphasizing the urgent need for compassionate, holistic post-abortion care that supports women’s emotional, physical, and spiritual recovery.