The Guttmacher Institute reports that unplanned pregnancies (defined as either mistimed pregnancies or unwanted pregnancies) make up 45% of pregnancies. In other words, nearly half of pregnant individuals struggle with the shock of becoming pregnant at a time when they have had little or no time to plan, prepare, or adapt to the way that pregnancy may affect their lives.
Understandably, this can cause panic. However, there are steps you can take and resources you can pursue if you find yourself in this situation. A few are listed below.
1. Most importantly, make an appointment with your primary care physician, OB/GYN, or at a pregnancy resource center. A doctor will be able to provide you with crucial information such as how far along you are in your pregnancy. They can also be a great source of information for resources you may choose to pursue outside of the physician’s office.
2. Don’t keep it to yourself. Instead, develop a support system. While it may not be safe or appropriate for you to tell everyone you know, aim to confide in a trusted friend or mentor. If you truly feel there is no one you with whom you can safely discuss your pregnancy, consider making an appointment with a pregnancy resource center. Talking through the situation is a great way to
3. Validate yourself. The most empowering thing you can do is to learn all about your options. Learn about what the different types of adoption are, learn the details of abortion procedures and other abortion information, and learn all the information you need to parent. Learn what you need to make a well-informed decision.
