In the classic fantasy story Lord of the Rings, Frodo confides in the wizard Gandalf, “I wish none of this had ever happened. I wish the ring had never come to me.” Gandalf’s response to this is to say, “So do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us.” These words illustrate some of the feelings that may arise after learning about an unexpected pregnancy, and how we may begin to respond to these emotions. There may be a desire to erase the past, and just like Frodo, you may find yourself wishing “none of this had ever happened.”
Deciding what your first steps should be after learning about an unexpected pregnancy can seem like a formidable task to face, but you’re not alone. Avenue Women’s Center supports women throughout each of their unexpected pregnancy decisions, walking with them every step of the way. Our compassionate pregnancy consultants understand you may have a lot of fears about what this pregnancy means for you, and they’re here to listen and provide you with information about all of your options. Begin addressing your concerns with our expert staff by making an appointment at one of our locations in Darien, Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn / Lombard, Naperville, West Chicago, or Wood Dale, Illinois today!
Working on Addressing Your Fears
Finding yourself facing a trying circumstance can be nerve-wracking for absolutely anyone, but acknowledging our anxieties can help us with starting to feel more equipped to handle them. In Star Wars IV: A New Hope, Luke Skywalker goes from being a simple moisture farmer on Tatooine to an active participant in a galactic war, all while trying to understand the mysterious powers of the Force. As Luke delves deeper into his hero’s journey, he begins to learn more about himself, and this inspires hopefulness within him.
His mentor, Ben Kenobi, tells Luke as the young Jedi’s confidence in himself begins to grow: “That’s good. You’ve taken your first step into a larger world.”
While your situation may not be quite as dramatic as this, taking the time to understand your options may lead to a moment of clarity about what sort of pregnancy decision you feel confident about. Going through an unexpected pregnancy is an emotional journey, but it is not one that has to be ventured alone. As you take your first steps, it can be helpful to have a trustworthy guide beside you to lift you up and offer advice about your unexpected pregnancy options.
Unfortunately, a bearded wizard and a wise Jedi master are probably not going to be a part of your supportive network. But you do have the option of seeking help from a counselor, a spiritual leader, a healthcare provider, or a pregnancy consultant. These are people who can help you navigate through an unexpected pregnancy, and their guidance may inspire you to feel more self-assured as you venture down the path of your own story.
Being Patient When Faced With Anxiety
It’s tempting to seek a quick resolution to your story due to potential feelings of emotional distress. This may motivate you to strongly consider pregnancy options that you foresee bringing this tumultuous journey to a swift end. Try not to let your desire for relief from anxiety be what convinces you to decide on one choice over the other. This is your story, and while it may seem scary to be in a situation where the conclusion may not be clear to you, it’s recommended you take time to ask yourself what it is you truly want or need.
Fears about what may come next do not have to be paralyzing. Fear can be suppressed by outside encouragements that remind us of who we are, and that we have choices. Discussing your feelings with a counselor or a pregnancy consultant may help you remember this mantra: You control your fear. It does not control you.
Recognizing the existence of our fears is typically the first step to resolving them. Try seeking counsel from a supportive resource for an unexpected pregnancy instead of consulting your anxiety and allowing it to dictate your decision. There may be no going backwards, only forward, but the presence of a positive individual who can offer direction may help bring you towards a satisfying end to your journey.
Avenue Women’s Center understands how fear can warp the perception you have of yourself, making it difficult to make decisions about an unexpected pregnancy. Our caring pregnancy consultants are trained to listen to your feelings and provide you with expert information about each of your options. We understand the need for support during an unexpected pregnancy, and our centers are equipped to ensure you have access to potential resources you may need. Contact us to begin discussing your unexpected pregnancy options 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.