There’s never a “good time” to become aware of an unexpected pregnancy. But perhaps now feels like an especially bad time to be making this discovery. Summer is right around the corner (at last!). And you probably have some important plans lined up over the next few months. Maybe you’re preparing for a highly-anticipated vacation or study abroad trip. Or maybe you have a big event coming up, like an athletic competition, a family reunion, or a wedding (your own or a loved one’s). Perhaps you’re simply planning to tackle a major project at home. No matter what, pregnancy surely hasn’t been factored into the arrangements that you’ve made so far.
Are you considering abortion because you have big designs for the summer? Chances are, it seems like a pregnancy would be a potential barrier to you fulfilling those plans. When life throws a curveball like this one, it’s natural to feel scared, overwhelmed, and frustrated. Our expert staff at Avenue Women’s Center is here to help you cope with emotions like these, and make a confident, informed pregnancy decision when the time is right. We’re a limited medical clinic that offers confidential first-step pregnancy services to equip you for a positive outcome.
Check out our free services at Avenue, including our medical-grade pregnancy tests, options consultations, and limited medical ultrasounds!
Key Points for a Well-Grounded Decision
No matter what specific circumstances you’re facing, or which pregnancy option you’re leaning towards, it’s important to keep several key points in mind as you contemplate your next steps. Whether your summer plans have been a primary or secondary factor in your decision-making process so far, consider giving these tips some of your time and attention.
Basic information about your pregnancy could reveal what next steps would be most appropriate for you.
Depending on the gestational age of your pregnancy, you may or may not be eligible for certain procedures such as the abortion pill (which is FDA-approved through 10 weeks). If the pregnancy is likely to end naturally in a miscarriage, you may not have to go through the effort and expense of getting an abortion. A pregnancy located outside of the uterus (an ectopic pregnancy) also wouldn’t be viable. This situation would require prompt medical attention beyond a normal abortion process. At a certain point in your pregnancy, a limited medical ultrasound at Avenue could reveal all this key information to you at no cost.
It’s healthy to keep a big-picture perspective as you process your decision.
Several important factors need to be considered to make a well-grounded pregnancy decision. These factors include your values, beliefs, gut feelings, and hopes for the future (not only for this summer, but beyond that). Thinking through all of these will likely help you to make the most confident choice possible. You’ll also be able to look back knowing your pregnancy decision was carefully considered.
Maybe your plans can be flexed to meet your needs.
It’s really stressful when unexpected challenges pop up, disrupting important plans. However, if there’s any part of you that’s drawn to the idea of parenting or adoption, you owe it to yourself to ask the question, “Can my plans be adapted?” Maybe it’s possible to keep your plans and continue the pregnancy by making some small adjustments. Or, perhaps those plans can be put on hold temporarily.
A decision for any pregnancy option holds medical and mental/emotional significance.
Your choice will have implications for your health no matter what, because any option will include a medical process. An abortion is no exception, whether it happens in your home or at a clinic. If you choose abortion (or adoption, or parenting), it’s wise to speak with a qualified medical professional about your unique health needs. Think about the potential short and long-term emotional effects of your decision as well. These are sometimes overlooked, but they often have a significant impact, so they’re well worth considering.
Our caring pregnancy consultants and nurses at Avenue are available to partner with you on your unique pregnancy journey. As a limited medical clinic, we do not provide or refer for abortion, offer ongoing prenatal care, or facilitate adoption. We’re here to offer free services to help you find clarity and support during an unexpected pregnancy, enabling you to thrive despite the challenges. At Avenue, you’ll always be met with unconditional empathy and respect.
Reach out to ask questions and schedule an appointment at one of our five Chicagoland clinics!
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.