It’s normal to experience a sense of panic if you’re a teenager facing an unexpected pregnancy. You may be wondering how to cope with this surprising situation. You never thought something like this would happen – what are you even supposed to do? Try to relax and focus on one thing at a time. You do not need to make any major decisions until you feel ready. One of your first steps as a teenager might be locating pregnancy help in or near West Chicago.
Where can you go for help if you’re facing a teenage pregnancy? Avenue Women’s Center has been providing teens and women of all ages the confidential care and services they deserve since 1981. Our expert pregnancy consultants will help you sort through information about your options. During your appointment, we’ll listen to your concerns about abortion, adoption, or parenting. We understand the need for answers at this time. That’s why we’re here to offer nonjudgmental support as you plan out your next steps.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation in West Chicago, or any of our other five office locations in Darien, Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn / Lombard, Naperville, Wood Dale, Illinois!
Where Can I Learn More About My Options in West Chicago?
You may already be aware of your three choices for an unexpected pregnancy: abortion, adoption, and parenting. Determining which path to choose can be challenging. Even if you know what your options are, how do you feel about each one? What are the potential pros and cons behind each decision? Who can you speak with to gather more information?
A healthcare provider or a pregnancy consultant can answer questions about your present situation. It’s recommended you take the time to clarify any concerns before moving forward with a decision. Every woman’s personal circumstances are unique. Finding the best route for yourself usually requires careful reflection and research.
How Can I Begin to Make an Unexpected Pregnancy Plan?
Each of your options may come with a specific set of questions. As you contemplate which path is best for you, it may be worth it to explore them all. This can help you decide which decision you may be comfortable with. And which of your choices aligns best with your needs.
Parenting:
Is being a teenage parent a possibility? Parenting can be rewarding, but it usually comes with responsibilities. You may want to look into resources that can help you cope with the challenges associated with this option. What can your friends and family do to support you? Are there community organizations or government programs you can rely on? How does your school typically assist pregnant students?
As with any major decision, it can be important to take a step back and think. What questions might come to mind as a result? Talking these things over with a professional resource can help you sort through your thoughts.
Abortion:
Perhaps you’re wondering if ending the pregnancy is right for you. There may be fears about carrying to term as a teenager. Before you decide, it can be helpful to learn more about abortion. You may want to ask questions about the different types of procedures so you’ll have an idea of what to expect. What possible side effects are there? How does a non-surgical abortion differ from a surgical one?
Some additional steps may need to be taken if you’re a minor. State laws on abortion can vary, but a parent or guardian may need to be notified prior to an abortion.
Your health can also play a role in an abortion decision. It can be good to know if there’s a risk of miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy. Either of these conditions generally requires medical treatment and can render you ineligible for an abortion.
The cost of an abortion may vary depending on your pregnancy’s gestational age. The further along you are, the more expensive it may be. You’ll likely want to consider this information alongside any budget plans.
There can be a lot to process when thinking about abortion as a solution to your teenage pregnancy. Contacting a professional resource can lead you to the answers you need before committing to a choice.
Adoption:
What can you do if feel neither parenting nor abortion is right for you? Adoption is typically available during any stage of your pregnancy. You will usually have the option of creating an open, semi-open, or closed adoption plan. How you decide to proceed may depend on the level of communication you desire to have with the adoptive family going forward.
Choosing adoption as a teenager may seem overwhelming. There may some confusion about how the process works. And you may have questions about what this plan might look like once it’s put into action.
An adoption specialist can support you through the process. He or she can make sure you understand how everything works. A specialist can also inform you if you’re eligible for financial assistance through the agency. If you have questions about how to contact an adoption specialist, a pregnancy consultant may be able to put you in touch with one.
Do you have questions about what to do next after learning you’re pregnant? Avenue Women’s Center can help you navigate through the challenges of teenage pregnancy. We’ll ensure you receive relevant information about your health by providing you with a free, limited ultrasound exam. We can also walk you through each of your potential decisions. It’s normal to feel a little uncertain about which option is best for you. Within a supportive environment, we’ll help you to feel more confident about taking your next steps.
Schedule your free appointment with us today!
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.