Few challenges in life can steal a person’s sense of control as suddenly as an unexpected pregnancy. If you recently received a positive result on a pregnancy test that you didn’t see coming, you know exactly what I mean. Perhaps getting pregnant was not something that you wanted to experience any time in the near future. Chances are, you had (and still have) important plans in mind for the years ahead. Unexpected pregnancy news can seemingly turn all of this completely upside-down.
Maybe you’re considering abortion at least in part because you think it may be the quickest and straightest path to a restored sense of control. Kudos to you for asking the question, “Is abortion the best way to regain control of my life?” The fact that you’re reading this blog means that you’re recognizing the availability of more than one option, and taking a thoughtful approach to this decision in spite of your fear. That’s brave and wise. The purpose of this blog is to help you explore that question on a deeper level, so you can get closer to identifying the pregnancy outcome that’s uniquely right for you.
Your initial reaction to this pregnancy was most likely shock, followed by panic. Maybe now you feel determined to confront and resolve this problem as quickly as possible, so life can feel normal again. Avenue Women’s Center is available to meet you wherever you are. We’ve been walking beside individuals through their own unique unexpected pregnancy journeys for over 40 years. We’d love to become a part of your support network too by equipping you with the tools you need to make a well-informed, confident choice.
Explore our free and confidential early pregnancy services, and reach out today! We’re located in Darien, Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn / Lombard, West Chicago, and Wood Dale, Illinois.
3 Truths to Meditate On
The perceived need to gain control is often closely linked with fear and anxiety, which can sometimes lead people to make impulsive decisions. In the case of an unexpected pregnancy, there are few situations in which a hasty pregnancy choice would be necessary. Most people realize they’re pregnant weeks before becoming ineligible for some of their options (including the abortion pill). If you feel panicked, know that you have time to contemplate your decision. Engaging in this process is always worth your while, even when time is limited. The answer to your question, “Is abortion the best way to regain control of my life?” may not come quickly and easily. But meditating on these 3 truths might just help you find clarity.
- Control is never fully within our grasp, even when life is going smoothly. We humans have many capabilities, including free will, autonomy, and the ability to make decisions and follow through with them. However, we have very little actual control over our circumstances. It can be easy to feel in control when things are stable or going well. That may or may not have been your experience before the unexpected pregnancy. But the truth is, our situations can change in an instant, with or without our influence, and nobody is immune to this. Perhaps you disagree with the claim that control can never be fully grasped. If so, that’s okay. If this feels true, reconsider basing your pregnancy decision on something that may be out of reach.
- Uncertainty is inevitable. There is no guarantee that any action you take or any pregnancy decision you make will lead to any particular outcome. This is not said to discourage you, but to encourage you to accept the reality of uncertainty. Author and psychiatrist Phil Stutz said that there are, “3 aspects of reality: pain, uncertainty, and constant work.” He makes the argument that, “true confidence is living in uncertainty.” Facing pain, uncertainty, and hard work isn’t easy, but it can lead to an unexpected sense of freedom. There’s a bright side to uncertainty too. If you choose to parent, there’s no guarantee it will be easy, but with determination, you can still reach your goals. Everyone just makes the best decisions they can based on their experiences, values, and dreams. Which brings us to the next point…
- You have multi-faceted needs and motivations to consider. You’re a beautifully complex person with diverse needs, qualities, and drives. You have everything that was mentioned a moment ago (values, beliefs, emotions, ambitions, and experiences that have shaped you), not to mention unique physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. You may be feeling pulled in many different directions because so many factors are influencing your decision-making process. This is probably confusing and frustrating, but it’s also normal and natural. Take the time that you need to consider all factors, think about which are most important to you, and then make the step to decide between abortion, adoption, or parenting.
Hope is a far better springboard for a pregnancy decision than fear. At Avenue Women’s Center, we strive to provide hope and support by offering reliable information and emotional care. Our no-cost services include medical-grade pregnancy tests, options consultations, limited medical ultrasounds, and more. Full control over your circumstances and future may not be within reach. However, that doesn’t have to stop you from embracing your autonomy and gathering all the information you need to make the most confident decision possible! Avenue is here to support you in that process with compassion, transparency, and integrity.
Schedule an appointment today! Walk-ins are welcome!
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.