If you’re coping with an unplanned pregnancy, these six steps may be helpful:
Table of Contents
1. Acknowledge
Acknowledge the shock of finding yourself pregnant. Unplanned pregnancies are a huge surprise. You weren’t planning on having a baby; you may not have even considered having a baby. It may take several weeks to come to terms with it and accept it, but that’s okay, take your time and process your pregnancy. Use this how many weeks pregnant calculator to see how far along your are.
2. Allow Your Emotions
Of course, you’re in shock. Allow yourself to have emotions of anger, frustration, confusion, acceptance, and excitement. Write down your feelings and allow yourself the time to process your condition. Then you can review your notes and decide how you feel about your situation.
3. Face Doubt
Many women are doubtful even if they did have a planned pregnancy. They begin to doubt themselves and their decision-making process regarding pregnancy. It’s easy to allow your fears to take over and overwhelm you; however, it’s essential to recognize your options and choices. Don’t base your decisions on your initial feelings. Take some time to think things through. Then you’ll be able to make informed decisions regarding your pregnancy.
4. Visualize
Take a step out of yourself and visualize your options. Picture yourself caring for your baby. Picture yourself doing your daily routine with your baby each day.
If you’re considering abortion, what are your emotions? How will you feel a week after your abortion? A month? How will you feel when you finally have a child? Each decision you make today will have an impact on your future. So how will your choices affect your future? Reach out to a trained professional and seek some counseling to help you process these options.
5. Don’t Let Finances Rule Your Decision
While money is essential, it shouldn’t be the deciding factor you base your pregnancy on. Instead, consider all the available help and reach out for help should you need it. Hopeline has many great resources and referrals to help men and women facing an unexpected pregnancy.
6. Seek Non-Judgmental Support
Many people face an unexpected pregnancy. Therefore, seeking out others who have been there and managed to navigate unplanned pregnancies is essential. Help is available. Hopeline can help you find free and confidential support services throughout your pregnancy and beyond. They can help you work through your emotions and decision options regarding your pregnancy.
