Finding clarity in the middle of an unexpected pregnancy involves going through a step-by-step process. It’s a journey that includes moments of discovery (like getting a pregnancy test result or learning how far along you are), separated by temporary waiting periods. Do you feel like you’re playing, “the waiting game” in your own unexpected pregnancy story right now? Maybe you’re waiting to take a pregnancy test, or waiting for an appointment at a doctor’s office or clinic. Perhaps you’re waiting to make a pregnancy decision because you’re still feeling uncertain about your options. Whatever your reason(s) for hitting the pause button, know that there’s value in waiting. It is, in fact, a vital component of the decision-making process.
Waiting is hard… especially when the information or insight you’re waiting for is potentially life-changing. Our caring staff at Avenue Women’s Center understands this. We’re here to provide emotional support and help you make the best possible use of the waiting periods interspersed throughout your pregnancy journey. Avenue is a limited medical clinic that specializes in early pregnancy services. We’ve been partnering with individuals facing circumstances similar to yours for over 40 years, and we’re available to navigate this road by your side too.
Contact us to learn more! We have multiple locations in the Chicagoland area. Our no-cost services include lab-quality pregnancy tests, pregnancy consultations, limited medical ultrasounds, and more.
Why are Waiting Periods Beneficial During an Unexpected Pregnancy?
If you’re facing a pregnancy right now, you have three overarching options available to you: abortion, adoption, and parenting. Waiting for information or insight at times will probably help you make a more confident decision for one of these, and reach a more positive outcome in the long run. Here’s why.
You need time to mentally process your circumstances.
The discovery of your unexpected pregnancy has probably been a shock to the system. Give yourself time and space to absorb this news and let your nerves settle. Maybe you’ve heard it said that making important decisions while in “crisis mode” isn’t wise. This also applies to your unexpected pregnancy situation. As you do take “action steps” (confirming the pregnancy, researching your options, getting a scan, etc.), you’ll need time to reflect on what you’ve learned. Instead of letting anxious thoughts run rampant, use these waiting periods to take inventory of your strengths and available resources. Continue to build your support network. Carve out space in your schedule to relax and enjoy yourself. Chances are, this calmer approach will help you move toward acceptance and navigate your pregnancy from a healthier frame of mind.
You need time to gather relevant information, and this process will inevitably involve short-term waiting periods.
Because navigating an unexpected pregnancy is a step-by-step process, it may not be possible to receive all the information you need to make an informed decision at once. It’s actually helpful that temporary waiting periods are baked into the learning process, for all the reasons we’ve discussed. Don’t cut corners or short-circuit your decision-making process for the sake of finding a quicker solution. Confirm your pregnancy, discover the ins and outs of all your pregnancy options, explore your available resources, learn about your unique pregnancy, get any medical support that you need, and make sure you feel confident about the outcome you’re choosing. Give this journey the time and careful consideration it requires.
Check out our blog, “A Letter to the One Who Waits”!
Making a pregnancy decision is a time-limited process, so it’s normal to experience a sense of urgency. Just know that your natural sense of how much time you have doesn’t necessarily reflect reality. Most women have the time that they need to learn about their pregnancies and all the options available to them before some of those options become unavailable. Still, our expert staff at Avenue understands that your timetable is limited, and we’re committed to meeting your need for prompt care to the very best of our ability. We accept walk-ins, and we can often schedule appointments same-day!
Reach out to schedule a visit! Waiting is an important part of the decision-making process, but so is taking action. We’re here to help you take active steps toward your own best outcome, starting now.
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.