Are you facing an unexpected pregnancy in addition to a disability? Perhaps your physical challenges have caused feelings of frustration, grief, or anxiety. Maybe you are proud of the obstacles you’ve overcome and consider this to be a formative part of your identity. Some people adjust so well to their physical limitations that these hardly represent a “disability” to them at all. It’s possible to experience many complex feelings about your disability- and your unexpected pregnancy! But you’re capable (maybe more so than most!) of breaking barriers and moving toward your own best future.
Whether you were born with a disability or had an injury, whether your physical limitations have impacted your life a lot or a little, your health needs are unique. As you cope with this unexpected pregnancy, there may be some special considerations to think through and act on. Avenue Women’s Center can be your ally and advocate. We’re a first-step limited medical clinic that’s here to help you navigate the road ahead.
Learn more about our early pregnancy services! They’re completely confidential, and offered free of charge!
Pregnancy Information is Key
Finding out as much as you can about the state of the pregnancy and the options you are considering is a critical early first step. Regardless of what options you are considering, it’s important to learn some essential facts about your health and the health of the pregnancy. If you have a physical disability or another health challenge, it may be especially important to speak with a qualified medical professional as soon as possible. A disability doesn’t necessarily impact a woman’s ability to carry a pregnancy. However, there may be unique factors that a doctor would need to address. Changes to your health care routine may be recommended too. Here at Avenue, we provide lab-quality pregnancy tests, limited medical ultrasounds, and options consultations. These early pregnancy services can offer clarity while you’re in the process of determining what’s next.
Moving Forward in Strength and Courage
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed after receiving news of an unexpected pregnancy. If you’re coping with a physical disability too, your stress may be rising at a fast pace. Sometimes, women in situations like yours feel pressured into a particular pregnancy option due to their physical limitations. Perhaps parenting is one option you’re interested in, but this doesn’t seem like a realistic path. Pregnancy and parenting can put a lot of strain on the body. Maybe you’ve already got a full plate coping with your physical disability, and you can’t imagine taking on the responsibilities of parenting. But perhaps you can choose to continue this pregnancy while staying mindful of your own health. You have three pregnancy options: abortion, adoption, and parenting. It’s important to carefully consider which is your best way forward. At Avenue, we believe in empowering women with accurate information about pregnancy, practical resources, and caring support, so they feel equipped to continue their pregnancy journey from a position of strength (not fear)!
If you have a physical disability, chances are, you’ve already overcome many obstacles in your life. It is possible to pursue your best pregnancy choice by leaning on your own strengths, and the support of people who care! Perhaps, in a way, your disability has better equipped you for this pregnancy experience- because it’s allowed you to develop valuable qualities like resilience. You’ve got this! Get started today in receiving the services and information needed to equip you for the next stage in your journey.
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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.