Almeida backtracks and denies post-abortion syndrome existence
Madrid's mayor, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, has backtracked on his stance, now stating that post-abortion syndrome does not exist as a recognized scientific category. This contrasts with support from Spanish bishops and parties like Vox and PP for the concept, despite clear scientific denial. The debate arises amid political discussions on abortion in Spain.
On October 2, 2025, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, Madrid's mayor from the Popular Party (PP), backtracked on his previous position regarding the so-called post-abortion syndrome. In a recent statement, he affirmed that it 'does not exist' and 'is not a recognized scientific category.' This rectification comes amid criticisms and during a political debate in the Madrid Assembly, where abortion issues have sparked tensions among conservative parties.
Previously, Almeida had supported the notion of post-abortion syndrome, a concept promoted by pro-life movements describing alleged severe psychological effects after an abortion. However, science unanimously rejects it: experts in psychology and medicine view it as a term invented by anti-abortion groups, lacking empirical basis. Organizations like the American Psychological Association have debunked its existence in numerous studies.
On the other hand, Spanish bishops have voiced support for the discourse from Vox and the PP. In a statement, they declared that 'that certainly exists,' aligning with the narrative that abortion causes lasting trauma in women. This ecclesiastical stance bolsters the political argument from the right, which seeks to tighten abortion laws in Spain, recalling the 2010 reform that decriminalized it under certain conditions.
The contrast between Almeida's backtracking and the bishops' endorsement highlights internal divisions within the PP and the gap between politics, religion, and science. While Vox maintains a hardline rhetoric against abortion, Almeida's intervention may moderate the tone in Madrid. No direct contradictions are reported in the sources, but Almeida's shift partially resolves the disagreement with predominant scientific evidence.
This episode illustrates the tensions in Spain's political landscape, where issues like abortion continue to polarize opinions, especially ahead of potential legislative reforms.