Understanding Your Options in an Unexpected Pregnancy

A positive pregnancy test when you weren't planning on it brings a flood of emotions. It's a moment when your heart races and your mind spins. There's excitement that quickly mixes with fear, questions about the future, and maybe even a twinge of guilt. Whatever you're feeling, remember this: you're not alone, and you have the right to take time to process and make an informed decision.

At Wilkes Pregnancy Care Center, we understand what you're going through. We've walked beside countless women and men as they grapple with the life-changing implications of an unexpected pregnancy. Our goal is never to sway your decision but to give you the tools and support you need to choose the path that's best for you.

1. Breathe: You Have More Time Than You Think

The pressure to act immediately is overwhelming, but in most cases, time is on your side. Unless it's a medical emergency, allow yourself to breathe and gather your thoughts before rushing into a decision. Remember, this impacts your body, your emotions, and your long-term future.

2. Knowledge is Power: Start Your Research

To feel confident about your choices, arm yourself with solid information:

• Confirm the Pregnancy: A pregnancy test and an ultrasound will tell you how far along you are, which clarifies your options.
• Understand the Choices: Educate yourself about parenting, adoption, and abortion. Explore each choice's medical procedures, long-term considerations, and emotional impact.
• Identify Your Support System: Look at both practical support (housing, finances, childcare) and emotional support (family, friends, or counselors).

3.  Don't Ignore Your Feelings

It's normal to feel like you're on an emotional rollercoaster. Give yourself space to experience a wide range of feelings, positive and negative. If you're struggling, don't hesitate to talk to someone you trust or reach out to us at Wilkes Pregnancy Care Center for a confidential listening ear. 

4. What Do YOU Want? Envisioning Different Futures

As you learn about your options, begin to picture your life a year or two down the road. What are your dreams? What responsibilities are you willing to take on? How would each choice – parenting, adoption, or abortion – change your path? Being honest with yourself is a crucial step.

5. The Right Support Makes a Difference

Facing this alone makes an already difficult situation even more challenging. Seek out people who love you unconditionally and offer support without judgment. Talk to family members, a close friend, a spiritual leader, or a counselor.  It's also good to know about community resources and organizations, like Wilkes Pregnancy Care Center, that specialize in helping women through this specific challenge.

6. You Are Strong, and You Are Not Alone

Unexpected pregnancies might alter your life's plans, but they cannot take away your resilience. Trust yourself to work through this and come out stronger. This decision isn't easy, but you won't crumble from the pressure. Lean on your support network, and remember, countless women have walked this path before you - you’re not alone!

Wrapping Up

At Wilkes Pregnancy Care Center, we're committed to providing compassionate care during a time that can feel incredibly isolating. Our services include free pregnancy testing, options counseling, parenting classes, material assistance, and a whole lot more – all completely confidential. We're a place where you can find trustworthy information, ask questions without fear of judgment, and explore resources that match your individual needs.  Our goal is to empower you, walk alongside you, and offer the support you deserve to make the decision that's right for you, whatever that may be.

If you'd like to schedule an appointment, talk to a counselor, or simply learn more about how we can support you, please don't hesitate to reach out. We understand that reaching out can feel difficult, but we promise a welcoming environment where your voice and your needs are the top priority.