You found out you are pregnant and at first things seemed to be ok. You planned to go through with the pregnancy, so you told some of the important people in your life—your family. Then, things shifted and suddenly you are considering abortion. How do you tell them that you changed your mind?
Avenue Women’s Center is a women’s limited medical clinic specializing in the issues surrounding unplanned pregnancy. We have walked many women through the decision-making process since 1981. We provide relevant services such as medical grade pregnancy tests and options consultations. Contact us today for a free appointment with one of our caring client advocates at our five DuPage County office locations—Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn / Lombard, Naperville, West Chicago, and Wood Dale, Illinois.
Navigating an unplanned pregnancy can be difficult regardless of the circumstances. It is also something that people tend to have thoughts and opinions about, especially our family. What do you do when you tell your family you want to keep the baby and are now considering abortion? Here are a few helpful steps:
- Nail down your decision. Take a look at what factors are influencing your decision. What caused the change in plans? Were there circumstances that played a role? Aside from the issues at hand, what would you really like to do regarding the pregnancy? Although circumstances can change over time, at some point down the road, your pregnancy decision becomes a permanent one. It’s important to think through what choice is right for you.
- Gather important information. Were you able to find out information about all of your pregnancy options—abortion, adoption, parenting? Often learning more about what each involves can help shape your decision. Also, it’s important to find out information regarding the pregnancy itself—how far along you are and your risk of miscarriage. These will be helpful factors when looking into your options. When it comes to talking with family, most women find it beneficial to feel like they are demonstrating a level of responsibility and maturity. If you “have your ducks in a row” that might influence the outcome of the conversation (or at least, you’ll feel better about having made an informed decision).
- Talk with an expert. Sometimes it’s helpful to process your decision with someone who is less directly involved in the situation. Some women turn to a counselor, a trusted adult, or a client advocate at a pregnancy center like Avenue Women’s Center. Our caring client advocates have assisted hundreds of women who are facing unplanned pregnancy and the issues surrounding it. We would love to provide you with a nonjudgmental listening ear as well.
One last tip I would leave you with is to wait to talk to your family again until you feel more certain about your plan. Unplanned pregnancy can be a stressful, emotional rollercoaster. One day you can feel set on a decision that you might not feel as certain about the next day. Give yourself some space. If there’s a lot of back and forth, it may prove helpful to avoid bringing your family into that until you have found the decision that is right for you.
Most importantly, you do not need to navigate this alone. Avenue Women’s Center provides important services and relevant information suited to your needs. Call, chat, text or email today to set up an appointment. Don’t delay. We’re here for you.
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.