Have you recently discovered an unexpected pregnancy, and decided to schedule an abortion? If so, you may be coping with an incredibly complex and difficult set of circumstances. Chances are, the decision-making process that’s brought you to this point hasn’t been easy. So, if you’re becoming more anxious about your abortion appointment with each passing day, you’re probably feeling increasingly frustrated and confused as well. Abortion likely seemed like your best possible option when you made these arrangements. And maybe it still does. So, what are you to make of these weird, uneasy vibes?
An unexpected pregnancy can come with many complicated emotions, sometimes all the way up to the moment when a pregnancy decision is made. Our dedicated staff at Avenue Women’s Center has partnered with countless individuals who’ve gone through a decision-making process similar to yours since we opened our doors in 1981. We’re here to equip you for a confident choice by providing free and confidential first-step pregnancy services.
Learn more about the pregnancy support we provide at Avenue! We offer lab-quality pregnancy tests, options consultations, limited medical ultrasounds, and more!
Accepting Where You’re At
The feelings you’re experiencing about your upcoming abortion are normal. Not all women second-guess their abortion plans as their appointments get closer, but many do. People who choose adoption or parenting can develop a similar sense of anxiety as they walk further along their own pregnancy paths. The fork in the road that you’re approaching- your pregnancy decision- is significant, as you know. It makes sense that your mind is still wrestling with it. Your edgy feelings may be causing you to question your decision-making process up to this point, which may be frustrating. But having these thoughts and emotions isn’t a bad thing in and of itself. It’s probably an indication that you’re not quite ready to conclude your decision-making process. And if you’re not, that’s okay. You’ll get there when the time is right.
“Finding Your Center”
Consider following these steps to help you re-focus and find stillness in the middle of your stressful circumstances. You don’t have to have your present situation or your future figured out to experience peace of mind.
Pause
Many people experience a sense of urgency when they’re facing a pregnancy decision. They may feel an urge to act, to push through their feelings of discomfort, and to follow through with their plans. There may be times and situations in your life when this kind of approach serves you well, but an unexpected pregnancy isn’t one of those times. The pressure that you’re feeling doesn’t necessarily reflect reality. You likely have more time to process your decision than it feels like you do. So, pause when you feel stressed. Take a deep breath. Mentally step away from this subject when you need to, and take time for self-care. You don’t have to act on a pregnancy decision today. It’s important to fully process your next steps, and ensure that you feel confident in them, before moving forward.
Connect
Find caring support, because a pregnancy decision isn’t something any of us are meant to process alone. Consider confiding in a close friend, partner, family member, counselor, mentor, faith leader, or pregnancy consultant (in short, anyone you trust, who’s likely to listen well, respect your privacy, offer support, and provide honest feedback with kindness and sensitivity). Opening up to someone about an unexpected pregnancy is rarely easy. But, if you can find a good confidante, you’ll probably feel relieved that you chose to include her in your pregnancy journey.
Reflect
You may feel as though your thoughts and emotions are spinning out of control. You may not want to keep reflecting on your pregnancy decision and your feelings about it, if this seems to be triggering stress. But continuing to process in a safe environment is critical, and will probably be the most effective way to mitigate stress in the long run. Chances are, once you’ve followed the first two steps, your decision-making process will feel a lot more manageable.
Know that you’re not alone in this. Whether you have a thriving support network, or feel completely isolated today, Avenue Women’s Center is here to help you make an informed pregnancy decision with peace of mind. We believe that every individual is fully capable of discovering and embracing her own best pregnancy outcome. And we’re honored to equip women with the tools that they need to accomplish this.
Reach out to speak with a compassionate expert staff member and schedule a visit!
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.