Facing an unexpected pregnancy decision while you’re young can seem like an impossible challenge, especially if this is your first time. If you’re a young adult or still in your teen years, it’s likely that you haven’t given much thought yet as to what sort of foundation you plan to build for yourself in preparation for the future. You may still be thinking about getting into a good college, or only just begun to consider your future career. Adding an unexpected pregnancy into the equation can make things seem confusing, and perhaps you feel as if you’ve suddenly fast forwarded into a stage in your life you don’t feel equipped to handle just yet. How do you find the tools necessary as a young person to make a decision you feel good about?
It can be hard to start thinking about your unexpected pregnancy options when you feel as if you’re too young to handle the situation. Avenue Women’s Center is here to assist you with six locations spread throughout DuPage County. We help women of all ages and backgrounds feel more confident about choosing a pregnancy option. Whether you’re thinking about abortion, adoption, or parenting, our caring pregnancy consultants can supply you with reliable information and helpful services. Our expert staff is here to learn more about your unique situation, taking the time to listen and answer any of your questions. Schedule a free consultation appointment today!
Sorting Through Potential Challenges
Making plans and preparing for an unexpected pregnancy may not be easy, but some of the weight can be lifted off your shoulders by seeking help. One area that may make a big difference is information, not only about your options, but the state of your pregnancy and how to approach this subject with your friends and family. Perhaps you do not feel ready for all of the changes an unexpected pregnancy may bring due to your young age, and it seems like abortion will restore your world to its proper axis.
Remember that there are typically no easy answers to an unexpected pregnancy, and it’s not likely that one choice will revert things back to the way they were. Change has already occurred because of the pregnancy, and it’s usually the case that no matter which choice you make, your life is not going to be the same as it was before. Although you can’t “go back,” you can find a positive path forward.
Asking Questions About Your Pregnancy
Try not to commit yourself to one option before you’ve taken the time to learn more about all of them. This can help prevent unforeseen surprises from arising, and reduce the chances of feelings of regret surfacing later. It may even be helpful to write a few questions down so you can keep track of what sort of answers you may need.
Pregnancy Decision Questions
If meeting with a counselor, a doctor, or a pregnancy consultant to discuss your unexpected pregnancy, here are a few questions to ask:
- What different abortion procedures are out there, and how can how far along I am affect an abortion decision?
- Do I have access to a supportive network and helpful resources if I decide to parent?
- What do open, semi-open, closed, or kinship adoption plans look like, and what are the adoption laws in my state?
Health Questions
It’s important to ask questions about your health as well. Even if you’re leaning towards abortion as an unexpected pregnancy decision, it may still be necessary to assess the condition of your pregnancy. The questions you would need answers to in this case would be:
- Is there a risk of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy?
- What is the gestational age of my pregnancy? How far along am I?
These are important things to consider before you make a decision. An ultrasound may be provided for you through a doctor, or some pregnancy decision clinics can schedule one for you at no cost. Since you may still be young, it’s understandable that you may also have a lot of worries when it comes to telling your parents or your boyfriend about the pregnancy.
Questions of Support
The way you approach the subject with your family will likely be different from the way you discuss it with a significant other. But when you begin to think about how to have a discussion with each party, here are a few general questions to keep in mind:
- Is there a supportive person who can be there with me when I break the news?
- Do I have the full attention of the person I’m attempting to communicate with, or are they preoccupied with something else?
An unexpected pregnancy can come with a lot of personal challenges, which is why it can be helpful to have plenty of help. Communication is often important when attempting to establish a healthy network of support for yourself, there’s typically a lot to talk about in situations like these.
Try not to feel as if you must handle this pregnancy on your own. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or be ashamed of wanting to talk more about your options. Plenty of women have been in your position, and it’s likely the same things were weighing on their mind that may currently be on yours.
Avenue Women’s Center understands how an unexpected pregnancy at a young age can feel like an impossible trial to overcome. If you are young and considering abortion, our caring pregnancy consultants are here to provide you with the information and services you need to take the next steps in your pregnancy decision. Confirm your pregnancy, receive information regarding how far along you might be, and become informed on all of your pregnancy options. Reach out today for a free appointment at one of our six area locations!
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.