A crisis of any kind tends to be exhausting in every way possible: physically, mentally, and emotionally. It’s surprising how closely linked the human mind and body are. Unfortunately, that connection can make a highly stressful situation like an unexpected pregnancy feel so much more overwhelming. If you’re facing this particular set of circumstances right now, you probably have a lot on your plate. Maybe you feel depleted by the simple (but frightening) process of identifying the pregnancy. This probably started with a missed period and led to a positive test result that you’re still struggling to wrap your head around. Plus, you may be managing plenty of other commitments related to work, school, family, etc. Nobody could blame you for saying to yourself, “I just don’t have the energy to deal with this.”
Are you facing an unexpected pregnancy, and feeling too exhausted to take another step forward in this journey? Avenue Women’s Center is here to meet you in that difficult place. We’re a limited medical clinic that supports individuals in the early days of an unexpected pregnancy by equipping them with clear and reliable information. Our no-cost, confidential services include (but are not limited to) medical-grade pregnancy tests, options consultations, and limited medical ultrasounds.
Learn more about Avenue! We help make the next steps in a pregnancy decision-making process simple.
It Only Takes a Little Momentum
When people try to handle important decisions without the physical, mental, and emotional energy they need, they sometimes respond in one of two unhealthy ways. They may try to deny or ignore the problem. Or, they may make a quick decision without carefully considering the key factors involved… factors like their values, beliefs, desires, instincts, and emotions, as well as the potential consequences. If you don’t feel ready to choose abortion, adoption, or parenting, that’s okay. It’s vital to feel confident and equipped before you move forward. Know that it only takes a little momentum to start the process of discovering which path is uniquely best for you.
Connecting with Avenue
Avenue Women’s Center can help you begin your decision-making process by providing a confirmation pregnancy test and a consultation to review your pregnancy options. We’re all about providing information that’s comprehensive, straightforward, easy to understand, and of course completely accurate. All you need to do is keep your appointment and share as much or as little as you feel comfortable. You’ll also go home with some information on your options and resources. We know that coming in for an appointment can be a lot to process, so we encourage women to look over this information whenever they feel mentally ready.
Re-Discovering Your Energy
Like anything, your body and mind need nourishment to operate at their best. And the healthier you are, the better equipped you’ll be to make a pregnancy decision you feel confident in when the time is right. Getting your energy back may seem almost impossible right now. But it’s not. There are small, tangible steps you can take to rejuvenate yourself little by little. Consider some of these ideas!
- Take excellent care of your body. Get a healthy amount of sleep and eat foods that are tasty and nutritious. Find balance between exercise (even just walking) and rest.
- Connect with other people. Support is critical when it comes to managing stress. Consider confiding in a small group of caring and trustworthy individuals about your pregnancy. Also look for opportunities to have normal, upbeat conversations with people in your life about completely different topics.
- Engage in fun and meaningful activities. Maybe you’re someone who loves to create, compete, or perform. Ask yourself what holds joy and meaning for you, and immerse yourself in those activities.
Check out some of our other blogs about the important subject of self-care!
8 Methods for Self-Care During Pregnancy
Prioritizing Self-Care During Seasons of Change
Coping with an unexpected pregnancy can feel incredibly draining sometimes. Remember that there’s never any shame in feeling exhausted. It is healthy, though, to get your needs met and care excellently for your own body and mind. You need nourishment, and so does your decision-making process. Be encouraged that this season will pass! In the meantime, you have what it takes to persevere, and our expert staff at Avenue is available to persevere by your side. We’ve been serving individuals, couples, and families from Chicagoland and beyond since 1981.
Reach out to schedule an appointment! We promise you’ll be met with compassion and respect when you connect with us.
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.