Do you have reason to believe you may be experiencing an unexpected pregnancy? Perhaps you’ve recently missed your period, or you’ve noticed some possible pregnancy symptoms. You may have received a confusing result on an at-home pregnancy test, or a result that didn’t make sense given the lack or presence of symptoms. Maybe all signs point to pregnancy, but you just can’t seem to accept that possibility. Is there a small (or large) part of you that doesn’t want to clarify whether or not you’re pregnant? It’s common for women to feel this way when they begin to notice those first startling signs. So, if the words, “I don’t want to know” are echoing through your mind today, know that you’re in good company. And there’s hope for brighter days ahead.
Everyone deals with stress differently. Some of us bend beneath the weight of our circumstances. Some of us fight back. Some people are generally accepting of life’s challenges, and many of us avoid them. Maybe you fall into this last category, at least when it comes to handling a possible pregnancy you’re not prepared to face. Do you wish you could ignore the signs and carry on as you normally would? Perhaps you’re actively trying to do just that. Our expert staff at Avenue Women’s Center is here for you. We’ve been walking alongside women in similar situations for over forty years, and we’re available to offer support.
Check out our webpage to learn more about Avenue Women’s Center!
Coping with Fear Through Avoidance: Your Best Approach?
Why wouldn’t a woman want to know if she’s pregnant? The obvious explanation is that she’s scared of the outcome. Disregarding the signs and hoping they’re unfounded may seem like the quickest, easiest path back to normalcy. It’s human nature to avoid stress. And yet, it’s important to note that sidestepping this particular concern could lead to more stress- not less. Avoidance offers a sliver of temporary relief because it protects you from facing a problem in the here and now. But is that worth the anxiety and safety risks a delay might cause?
Why is an Informed Perspective Important?
If you’re familiar with Avenue Women’s Center, you’ve probably picked up on the fact that we’re all about helping women know where they stand, so they feel equipped to make an informed pregnancy decision. That begins with a reliable pregnancy test. The ones we provide at Avenue are free and 99.5% accurate. Additional steps include getting an ultrasound (to clarify the age, location, and viability of the pregnancy), learning about pregnancy options, accessing resources as needed, and of course taking time to process which way is best.
But why do we believe an informed pregnancy choice is so critical? First and foremost, because understanding what’s going on in your body is the best way to protect your own health and safety. If you’re pregnant, you may need routine or specialized medical care without realizing it. For example, some women experience ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy located outside the uterus), which is a dangerous condition requiring prompt medical attention apart from abortion. To evaluate risks like this one, you’ll need to find out if you’re pregnant and be seen by a medical professional, who will likely provide an ultrasound. Even if it turns out that your pregnancy is developing normally, pushing this matter to the side may limit your abortion options or delay prenatal care, if you chose to continue the pregnancy.
A Healthy Approach, However this Shakes Out
Every woman is capable of overcoming their fear. You have much to gain and little (or nothing) to lose by confirming a pregnancy result. If you are pregnant, and you discover this early on, you’ll be much better equipped to determine your next best steps. If you’re not, you’ll be able to breathe a sigh of relief and address with a professional if your symptoms could be pointing to a different medical condition. Both outcomes allow you to safeguard your own health and wellness.
Wishing away your pregnancy symptoms won’t make them disappear, as frustrating as that may be. Sometimes you have to walk through a storm to find good weather on the other side. But you don’t have to face the future alone and unsupported. Our compassionate, non-judgmental staff at Avenue Women’s Center is here to help you overcome your fear and find peace of mind by discovering your own best outcome. Maybe you’re a stronger, more resilient person than you realize. Know that you’ve got this!
Reach out to Avenue today! We provide free pregnancy tests, limited medical ultrasounds, options consultations, and more at six locations in Chicagoland!
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.