Parenting comes with a lot of challenges, even when a pregnancy is healthy from conception to birth. But what if a medical or physical disability is identified while you’re still pregnant? Many women have doubts about parenting after receiving this unsettling news. Maybe you’re leaning toward parenting, but only if the pregnancy is healthy. Perhaps these circumstances were unexpected, and you’re feeling unprepared to parent, especially if there are special needs involved. There may be some tough choices ahead. But it’s important to take this decision-making process one step at a time. Avenue Women’s Center would love to be your ally and advocate throughout this journey.
An unhealthy pregnancy can sometimes lead to bigger parenting challenges post-birth. Even under the best of circumstances, becoming a parent involves some lifestyle changes. Maybe you’re already a hard-working mom who seemingly can’t afford this pregnancy (financially or emotionally). Our compassionate team at Avenue Women’s Center is available to partner with you. We’re a first-step limited medical clinic, with over 40 years of experience empowering women in situations like yours!
Interested in learning more about Avenue’s free early pregnancy services? Reach out to us!
Your First Best Steps
Once you’ve confirmed that you’re pregnant, it is important to find out more about the health of your pregnancy. Consider getting an ultrasound before you reach a pregnancy decision! A limited medical ultrasound (like the ones we offer for free at Avenue) can date your pregnancy and assess which options you’re eligible for. Some health concerns that an ultrasound could identify affect your safety too! For example, an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy located outside the uterus) poses a health risk to the woman and requires immediate medical attention. This condition can’t be treated effectively through abortion. So, regardless of which direction you choose, learning more about this pregnancy as soon as possible is in your best interest.
The Value of a Pregnancy Consultation
As with any important decision in life, it’s important to use the time that you have to learn about your options. At Avenue Women’s Center, our pregnancy consultants are available to offer accurate information on all your possible avenues and answer your questions. Your community may offer loads of resources to help you thrive- no matter where your path leads! Avenue has been a trusted service provider in Chicagoland since 1981. We can help you connect with valuable resources in the community. In the meantime, it may be beneficial to process your circumstances with someone who’s compassionate, impartial, and knowledgeable. Consider your feelings and values. Allow these to inform your next steps. Talking with a neutral, trustworthy person may allow you to gain some much-needed insight.
Did You Know…?
Did you know that some medical conditions can be treated in utero (in the uterus)? Fetal surgery can actually be performed before birth to treat many different conditions, like spina bifida. In this way, experts are sometimes able to improve post-birth quality of life. Have you been informed by a medical professional that your pregnancy isn’t healthy? Are you concerned about receiving this troubling news in the future? Talk with your doctor about all your options, if and when you need to cross that bridge. A qualified medical professional can provide information on the risks and benefits of any pre-birth surgical procedure.
If you’re experiencing an unexpected pregnancy, and are worried about what the future holds, calling Avenue Women’s Center is an excellent next step! Our confidential, no-cost services include lab-quality pregnancy tests, limited medical ultrasounds, options consultations, and more! We’re all about equipping women with the knowledge they need to move forward with confidence.
Schedule an appointment at one of our six locations in the western suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. Walk-ins are welcome!
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Reference:
Mayo Clinic. (2021, March). Fetal surgery. Retrieved from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/fetal-surgery/about/pac-20384571
Reviewed by Patricia Kuenzi, APN-CNP, MSN, ANP, PNP.
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.