Are you facing an unplanned pregnancy?
You’re not alone! Many women experience an unplanned pregnancy at some point in their lives. The CDC tells us that almost 50% percent of women get pregnant and don’t intend for it to happen.
It can be overwhelming thinking about having a baby when you don’t feel ready. You may feel scared, you may feel alone, you may have people around you who have an opinion about what you should do.
We want to share some tips on things you can do if you find yourself in that situation to help you feel like you can make the best decision for your situation.
1. Get the facts.
There are lots of things to think about and emotions to sort through, but it is important to have the right information at your fingertips.
- Go to a clinic and get a pregnancy test.
If finances are an issue, there are places (including Wellspring) that will give you a lab-grade pregnancy test at no cost to you. Make sure you really are pregnant before thinking about the next steps. - Get tested for STDs.
While STDs are never a good thing, it is especially important to get tested if you think you’re pregnant. STDs can be problematic during pregnancy and important to be treated and/or monitored as soon as possible. - Have an ultrasound done.
It is important to know the gestational age and whether the pregnancy is viable. Knowing this information can help you avoid unnecessary medical procedures like abortion.
2. Find your support people.
These are the people in your life who will listen, help you find information and resources, but won’t pressure you into making a decision that you don’t want to make. At Wellspring, we strive to listen to each woman’s situation in a non-judgmental way that empowers her to make the best decision for her situation.
3. Gather your resources.
At Wellspring, we can help women find the resources they need. We can provide referrals to local agencies for more information and support. We also offer parenting classes to help you gain the confidence and skills to be a great parent even if it is sooner than you thought.
4. Take a deep breath.
Your situation may feel overwhelming, but there are people in your community who are there to help you. Don’t walk the path alone. Reach out, there are more people in your community who have walked this path than you think.