Are you scared of continuing an unexpected pregnancy because you think your body couldn’t handle it? Maybe you’re worried about the later stages of pregnancy, giving birth, physically caring for a newborn, or all of the above. Know that your feelings are valid, whether or not your concerns are linked to a specific medical cause. Giving birth is a very significant event- physically, mentally, emotionally, etc. It’s completely normal to feel intimidated. Just remember that your healthiest decision (for abortion, adoption, or parenting) will be grounded in your strengths, not your fears. It’s possible to step out in courage- whatever that may look like for you- and lean into your best personal outcome, despite the worries that you’ll face along your journey.
If you’re going through an unexpected pregnancy today, and feeling anxious about the potential impacts on your body, contacting Avenue Women’s Center would be a great first step. We’re an early pregnancy center with multiple locations in the western Chicago metro area. Avenue has been serving persons wrestling with circumstances and concerns like yours for over forty years! We’re here to provide accurate, useful information and caring support, so you feel equipped to take confident steps forward.
Learn more about us! Avenue provides first-step pregnancy services at no cost!
Steps You Can Take to Reach a Well-Rounded Pregnancy Decision
You may be worried about the possible physical effects of a pregnancy for all kinds of different reasons. Perhaps you have a medical condition that could cause added difficulties and risks. Maybe you’re struggling with substance abuse or mental health challenges that relate to your body image. Your concerns are real and valid- whatever your reasoning may be. It may be wise, though, to pause and take a few practical steps to ensure that you’re moving toward a well-rounded and well-informed pregnancy choice. A decision grounded in strength is more likely to lead to a positive outcome than a decision motivated by fear. That’s why our expert team at Avenue is passionate about helping women gather as much accurate information and caring support as possible. We believe it’s important for people to move forward knowing that they have exactly what they need to make a confident and knowledgeable choice. Consider taking these steps to help you in this process!
Speak with a medical professional.
Your health and safety are always priority number one! If you’re concerned about a medical condition or you believe that your safety may be at risk, be sure to contact a qualified medical professional right away. Call 911 or visit the emergency room immediately in the case of a possible emergency. When it comes to pregnancy and your personal health, it’s important not to make any assumptions about what your body can and cannot handle. Speak with a medical professional (ideally, one who’s familiar with your care) as soon as possible. Once you’ve received relevant answers and information from a doctor, you’ll be much better equipped to make ongoing medical choices with an informed perspective. This will allow you to safeguard your own health while embracing your decision-making autonomy.
Learn about your pregnancy.
In that vein, you can find out whether or not your pregnancy is viable by getting an ultrasound. A free limited medical scan at Avenue Women’s Center can locate the pregnancy, determine the gestational age, and evaluate your chances of miscarriage. This important information will determine what your current pregnancy options are and what next steps you need to take.
*Avenue Women’s Center is a limited medical clinic with a limited scope of medical services. We can provide referrals for doctors, OBGYNs, and other medical resources.
Learn about your pregnancy options (abortion, adoption, and parenting).
All medical processes include risks. Before making any decision that could impact your health, it’s important to educate yourself on what that choice will involve- no matter which pregnancy option(s) you’re leaning towards. Understanding the risks and processes concerning all three (abortion, adoption, and parenting) will help you make a better-informed choice with a bigger-picture perspective.
Process your thoughts and feelings with someone caring and trustworthy.
Consider confiding in a family member, wise friend, mentor, faith leader, professional counselor, or pregnancy consultant… someone who will continue to walk this road with you, come what may. Trustworthy, non-judgmental people are available to meet you in your fear and help you discover freedom from it. Processing thoughts and feelings out loud with a good listener can offer a surprising amount of inner peace and personal insight. It can also present an opportunity to receive emotional support and consider a broader point of view.
Keep a big-picture perspective.
What are your values, beliefs, instincts, desires, and feelings (besides just fear)? How do these relate to your pregnancy choice? What are your goals for the future, and what support systems are available to you? Considering all these factors will definitely help you make a more holistic pregnancy decision.
Avenue Women’s Center offers critical early pregnancy services to help you take your next best steps. Our medical-grade pregnancy tests can confirm the results you received at home. We also provide free ultrasounds to determine the gestational age of your pregnancy, your chances of miscarriage, and your risk of ectopic pregnancy. It can be so helpful to have a non-biased and non-judgmental conversation with an expert pregnancy consultant. We’ll walk you through your pregnancy options, addressing your unique questions and concerns. We’d love to give you the time and space you need to process your feelings, thoughts, and options.
Reach out today about our free and confidential pregnancy services!
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.