If you’ve recently discovered you’re pregnant when you weren’t planning to be, it’s likely you have a lot on your mind. Concerns about the cost of your options may be weighing heavily on you. As you analyze your savings, you may feel torn between choosing abortion or parenting. While it can be difficult to think about other things aside from your pregnancy and how to calculate your budget to support one of your decisions, hopefully, you’re giving yourself a bit of time to breathe and relax as you adjust to this new transition. It’s always a good idea to research your options. Ask questions about any resources and accommodations that may be available to you, but try to take it slowly. That way, you may feel more assured that you have all the relevant information you need to make your choice.
An unexpected pregnancy can come as a shock. Budgeting your finances to afford one of your choices can be stressful. Avenue Women’s Center is here to lift some of your burdens through our free, confidential services. Confirm your pregnancy with a free medical-grade pregnancy test, accurate just ten days after conception. Our expert staff will provide you with information on all your pregnancy options. We can connect you with local resources that can help address your financial concerns.
Make an appointment with us today at one of our centers located in Darien, Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn / Lombard, Naperville, West Chicago, and Wood Dale, Illinois!
How to Prepare Financially: Taking Time Off
If you’re still in school, typically your academic institution is required to supply you with accommodations under Title IX. This may include time off without penalty, extended deadlines, and the ability to communicate concerns with a Title IX coordinator. To see what rights are afforded to you as a pregnant student, contact the administrative office at your school.
Family and Medical Leave Act typically guarantees 12 weeks paid time off through your employer. This applies if you’ve worked for at least 12 months at a company of 50 or more employees. Usually, if you’re unable to perform regular duties because of morning sickness, pregnancy-related migraines, or if your doctor has ordered bed rest, the FMLA will generally protect your right to take time off. Prenatal care is often covered under FMLA as well.
If you haven’t been employed long enough to qualify for FMLA, or there’s some other factor hindering your ability to receive it, there are often available options in your community for affordable care.
How to Prepare Financially: Health Insurance Coverage
Begin the process of learning what your potential pregnancy expenses may look like ahead of time. Your out-of-pocket costs may vary based on your health plan and depending on the outcome of the pregnancy.
If you’re considering abortion as an unexpected pregnancy option, it’s helpful to learn about the procedures and their costs. Health insurance coverage varies depending on your state of residence and individual coverage.
A way to prepare for this and reduce the risk of surprise costs is to call your insurance company to receive information on the estimated total of future bills. You may also want to ask what your plan’s coverage looks like for potential future costs. Find out what is involved with follow-up exams, postpartum care, pediatric care, and early intervention coverage.
if planning to continue the pregnancy, some employers also offer benefits to expecting or new mothers. Even the little things can be beneficial. Knowing what your employer may provide can reduce stress levels and make the transition easier. Talk to your boss or human resource department for details.
How to Prepare Financially: Budgeting and Saving
This often goes without saying: a pregnancy brings new expenses that may require you to formulate a solid budget plan. Whether you’re considering parenting or abortion, financial planning may be required. Gathering more information regarding potential costs will be an important next step.
The task of saving for pregnancy can seem daunting. Organizing a budget can feel like an overwhelming task when you’re not sure where to even start. One of the first things you may want to do is write out financial goals for yourself. Then, set up payment thresholds you do not want to surpass. By putting it down on paper, it can become easier to visualize your plan and start saving effectively.
If any of this seems like too much, or you don’t feel as if you have the means to cover the costs of pregnancy-related expenses, there is the option to reach out for help through local organizations or government programs who can connect you with community resources or provide material assistance.
Planning for an unexpected pregnancy can be a difficult task. That’s why Avenue is here to help any way we can. Take your next step by first receiving more information about your pregnancy and the options available to you. Our expert staff is here to provide you with the resources and support you need during this time.
Schedule an appointment today to receive nonjudgmental support for your pregnancy!
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References:
- U.S. Department of Labor. Frequently Asked Questions and Answers About the Revisions to the Family and Medical Leave Act. Retrieved from: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fmla/final-rule/faq
- The Pregnant Scholar. Title IX Basics. Retrieved from: https://thepregnantscholar.org/title-ix-basics/
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.