Do you find yourself facing an unexpected pregnancy after years of being a mom? Chances are, you can positively reflect on your kids’ earlier years, however many parenting challenges you faced along the way. And now your children are moving toward greater independence with every passing moment. Maybe a part of you feels really comfortable with that! You’ll always be their loving mom- without a doubt. But perhaps you’re beginning to focus on new goals and plans as you dream of a lifestyle with more space for personal freedom. Isn’t that what’s supposed to happen as your kids grow up?
Needless to say, an unexpected pregnancy at this stage of life could interrupt your plans. You may be struggling to cope with an overwhelming mix of emotions, like shock, anger, fear, and grief. Understandably so! Our expert staff at Avenue Women’s Center is available to meet you in that challenging place. You’re not alone. Countless women have gone before you. Know that it’s possible to discover an outcome you feel at peace with despite the difficulties that may lie ahead. Avenue is here to equip and strengthen you for this task.
Learn more about Avenue Women’s Center! We provide free first-step pregnancy services to persons experiencing an unexpected pregnancy in Chicagoland, Illinois and beyond.
A Complex, Delicate Matter
Being a mom of older children will very likely impact the course of your pregnancy journey. Perhaps you’re asking yourself questions like these:
- Should I tell my kids about the pregnancy?
- How should I approach this subject if so? How might they respond? How will I respond to them in turn?
- How will I approach the subject of pregnancy options? Will I tell them the direction I’m leaning in? How might they respond? How will I respond to them?
- If I don’t tell them, and keep this pregnancy a secret, how would I feel about that?
Questions concerning the if’s, when’s, and how’s of navigating an unexpected pregnancy with kids are usually difficult to answer. Your questions may be leading to more questions, which are even harder to resolve in your mind. That’s partly because there are many different factors involved, like your kids’ ages and developmental levels, your family’s overall situation (relationships, financial stability, etc.), and the values upheld by you and your loved ones.
You’ve Got This!
Don’t give up hope! Discovering your best way forward may be challenging and complex, but you have what it takes to succeed. Moms are experts at making hard decisions that affect their families, after all, and emerging stronger on the other side. Chances are, you have time to figure this out, and you don’t have to face these circumstances alone! Consider confiding in a trustworthy partner, family member, friend, mentor, or faith leader who can process these questions by your side. Avenue Women’s Center is here to be a part of your support network too. Our free early pregnancy services are designed to offer information about your pregnancy, your options, and your available resources, so you can take your next steps with an informed and empowered point of view. We’d love to be a sounding board, a listening ear, and an ongoing source of emotional support.
Exploring Your Best Way Forward
Navigating an unexpected pregnancy with older kids looks different for every parent, and that’s okay. There’s no “one right way.” It’s important to take time to explore the best way to approach this with your family. Check out some of our other blogs on this subject to help with your decision-making process (concerning your pregnancy options and whether/when/how to address this pregnancy with your kids).
Should I Tell My Kids About an Unexpected Pregnancy?
“I Don’t Want My Kids to Know I’m Pregnant”
Pregnant After Being ‘Done’ Having Kids
This unexpected pregnancy has likely been a total shock. You probably feel like your life has taken a very sharp turn in an unwelcome direction you could have never predicted. Taking some time to breathe and process may help you continue this journey with greater confidence and peace of mind. Our caring, expert staff at Avenue is here to support you along the way, no matter where your road leads.
Reach out to schedule a visit! We provide free medical-grade pregnancy tests, options consultations, and more at our six limited medical clinics in Chicagoland, Illinois.
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.