Key Takeaways
- An unplanned pregnancy can create a lot of overwhelming feelings, but there are steps you can take to calm your mind, understand your options, and determine the best choice for your pregnancy.
- If you think you are pregnant, first, take a moment to breathe. Then, confirm your pregnancy, learn about all your options, build a support system, and give yourself time to decide which option is best.
- For free unplanned pregnancy help, visit Assured Women’s Healthcare in Orlando to confirm your pregnancy and learn about your options.
An unplanned pregnancy can best be described by one word: overwhelming. You may feel a mixture of shock, disappointment, happiness, anxiety, hope, and fear. No matter what you’re feeling and which challenges you face, you don’t need to have all the answers immediately. You have time to seek unexpected pregnancy help and information about all your options.
This guide will share practical steps that will show you how to handle an unplanned pregnancy. You’ll have the information you need to move forward with clarity and confidence in your decision.
How to handle an unplanned pregnancy
1. Take a moment to breathe
Making a big decision when you’re overwhelmed and panicked can quickly lead to feelings of regret. This isn’t something you want to rush.
Instead, take time to breathe and process your situation. Consider what you want for your pregnancy and how to overcome any obstacles to that future. Information is key, so do some research to find resources that offer unexpected pregnancy help.
These small steps can help you move past the panic and fear. You’ll be able to think clearly and find support that can offer peace of mind.
2. Confirm your pregnancy
Home pregnancy tests aren’t always accurate, and there’s information these tests can’t give you. If you’ve missed a period, are experiencing other pregnancy symptoms, and believe you might be pregnant, confirming your pregnancy with a medical-grade pregnancy test is the best next step.
After pregnancy confirmation, you’ll need an ultrasound to make sure it is viable and located in your uterus. This scan is crucial for determining your options and protecting your health, especially if you plan to have an abortion.
If your pregnancy isn’t viable (healthy), you will likely lose it naturally and won’t need a termination. The ultrasound will check for an ectopic pregnancy, which happens when the embryo implants outside of the uterus. If the sonographer can’t rule out an ectopic pregnancy, you will need further care to prevent potential life-threatening complications.
Finally, an ultrasound will reveal the exact age of your pregnancy. Gestational age determines which options are available based on legal and safety restrictions. Ultrasounds are the only way to determine this information with accuracy.
3. Understand all your options
4. Build a support system
No matter the decision you make for your pregnancy, you should never carry it alone. Consider who you can reach out to for support and advice. You may tell your mom, confide in a best friend, or talk to a mentor you trust. You can also reach out to organizations that offer unplanned pregnancy support.
Your partner is involved in your pregnancy too, so we recommend discussing your decision with him, as long as it’s safe to do so. Be honest about what you want and encourage him to share his true feelings as well. You should never feel forced or pressured to make the choice he wants, but oftentimes, the decision is easier when you make it together.
5. Give yourself time to decide
You deserve to have time to make the best decision for your pregnancy. Slow the decision-making process to give yourself time to think through what you want for your future. You may not be able to take back the choice you make, so do everything you can to feel confident in your decision.
Gather information, ask questions, talk to people you trust to respect your decision, seek wise counsel, and reflect on your values. Most importantly, remember that you are strong and capable of making the choice you want to make. Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise.
As you consider your pregnancy options, visit Assured Women’s Healthcare in Orlando to find free pregnancy support. We offer pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, STD testing/treatment, and judgment-free options counseling—all free of cost.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do first if I have an unplanned pregnancy?
If you have an unplanned pregnancy, start by confirming the pregnancy with a medical-grade test and ultrasound. Then take time to learn your options, seek trusted support, and schedule early pregnancy care. Avoid rushing decisions while emotions are high.
Can I get free help during an unexpected pregnancy?
Yes. Many pregnancy resource centers and community programs offer free services such as pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, baby supplies, options counseling, and more!