Finding out you might be pregnant when you weren’t expecting it can bring a flood of emotions. You may feel scared, confused, or unsure of what to do next. And you might even feel several of those emotions at once.
If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, know that you don’t have to make a decision today, and you don’t have to navigate this alone. Taking a few important first steps can help you understand your pregnancy, protect your health, and make an informed decision that’s right for you.
Read on to learn more, or contact New Day Women’s Center to find a safe space to ask questions and get answers.
First, Get an Ultrasound
If you’ve taken a home pregnancy test and received a positive result, your next step should be an ultrasound.
While a pregnancy test can tell you that the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is present, it can’t tell you important medical information about your pregnancy. An ultrasound provides details that are essential before making any pregnancy decision.
An ultrasound can confirm:
- Whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus (and rule out an ectopic pregnancy, which can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical care)
- Whether the pregnancy is viable
- Approximately how far along you are
These details are important for both your health and your understanding of your available pregnancy options.
Next, Learn About All of Your Options
Once you have confirmed your pregnancy, take time to learn about each of your options before making a decision.
Understanding what parenting, adoption, and abortion involve, including the physical, emotional, and practical considerations of each, can help you feel more prepared to make a decision you won’t regret in haste.
Gather information from trusted medical professionals and organizations that are committed to giving you accurate, evidence-based information without profiting from your decision. Don’t be afraid to ask questions until you feel you understand your options.
Finally, Make Sure the Decision Is Yours
When you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, it’s common for other people to have strong opinions. A partner, friend, or family member may encourage you to make a certain decision based on what they think is best.
While it’s okay to seek advice from people you trust, the decision about your pregnancy should never be made because someone pressured or coerced you.
Pressure can take many forms. Someone may threaten to leave the relationship, withhold financial support, make you feel guilty, or insist that there’s only one acceptable choice. Those situations can make an already difficult decision feel even more overwhelming.
Take time to consider what you want. Give yourself space to ask questions, gather information, and think through your decision without being rushed.
You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone
An unexpected pregnancy can leave you with more questions than answers, but you don’t have to face them by yourself.
At New Day Women’s Center, we provide a safe, confidential place where you can receive a free ultrasound, ask questions, and learn about all of your pregnancy options in a caring, judgment-free environment. Our team is here to provide accurate information, compassionate support, and the resources you need to make an informed decision.
Contact New Day Women’s Center today to schedule your confidential appointment. We’re here for you.
