You are obviously wondering “What should I do for an unplanned pregnancy?”
You just took the mighty test, and it is positive. You are getting emotional and most probably uncertain about where to go from here.
Not all unplanned pregnancies are unwanted. And about half of all pregnancies are a surprise so it’s natural to feel uncertain about your next step. Much like all unplanned events, you are here and you will need to make a healthy decision.
Your first step is most likely understanding how you feel about the pregnancy. Plus it will surely take time to process, accept and decide your next step.
Every woman with a surprise pregnancy faces unique circumstances. This can arouse a bunch of feelings. For example, you may feel:
- You worry because you don’t know how to be a parent and don’t feel prepared enough
- Fear of the possibility of being a full-time parent
- What will you lose or give up if you continue with the pregnancy?
- Happiness because this is something you really desire.
The first step is making the decision
To find out your next step you will need to write down a list of the exact feelings you experience when you find out. Plus journaling your experience and feelings may be the best way to keep track of your feelings.
You may go on to ask yourself a number of questions about how you feel about your life and your future (developing a list of these will be helpful and these are some of the possible questions you may need to raise)
- What are your plans for the future?
- How would having a baby help and what would life with a baby look like
- What do I stand to lose by keeping the baby?
- What are the options I have available in regards to the pregnancy
- How would other people who matter to me react to the decision I will decide to take
Related post: 6 Very Early Signs Of Pregnancy 1 Week
Options for an unplanned pregnancy?
You need to remember that the ‘right’ decision is the one that is the healthiest for you. And your beliefs and convictions will be very important and help in making the decision. The options most women consider when choosing a decision usually include the following:
- Continuing with the pregnancy and becoming a parent
- Continuing with the pregnancy and putting it up for adoption or any alternative care arrangements for the child
- Terminating the pregnancy (having an abortion)
Choice 1: Continuing with the pregnancy and becoming a parent
If you choose to keep the pregnancy, it is important to learn about your health and the health of the fetus.
This may include visiting the nearest hospital or clinic and taking a range of tests. And obtaining adequate medical attention. In addition to financial, mental, and emotional preparation.
Choice 2: Continuing with the pregnancy and putting it up for adoption or any alternative care arrangements
If you feel you are not quite ready for the responsibility and challenge of being a full-time parent there are alternatives to permanent adoption because this is a decision you need to consider carefully. The alternatives to this are:
- Temporary foster care can help where the child lives with another family who takes care of the baby until the birth parent is able to live and take care of them.
- Your extended family may be able to care for the baby
Choice 3: Terminating the pregnancy (having an abortion)
Abortion is where the pregnancy is intentionally put to a halt. Take safety precautions when considering abortion.
This is to ensure a safe abortion that will not endanger your health.
Seeking guidance on an unplanned pregnancy
After considerable thought, a decision will need to be taken and this can be frightening. While taking a decision, the safest decision for you will be difficult to reach. But this can be done after a complete evaluation of your feelings and weighing the options.
This is because every woman’s situation is different. Plus it comes down to what she feels is best and healthiest for her and her future.
If you are still failing to make a decision you may need to get more information about your choices or talk with someone you trust, this could be a parent or any other family member, or a friend who cares about you, the questions can help guide you when reaching a decision. Additionally, counseling from a certified health professional can be sought to help in making a decision about the healthiest option for you.
