If you’re in high school or college and recently learned you’re pregnant, your situation may feel hopeless.
Younger women have a special set of challenges when faced with an unexpected pregnancy. For example, you may feel especially anxious about your classmates’ reactions. Or perhaps you’re worried loved ones will be disappointed. For many, this news creates feelings of guilt and shame.
First, remember that this is your pregnancy, and you have total control over this situation. You aren’t the first student to face an unexpected pregnancy, and you won’t be the last. But although this may create new challenges, you can equip yourself with the resources needed to overcome them.
Things to Consider
Know that you can’t be discriminated against due to your pregnancy. And you have to finish your education. Knowing this information can help empower you to take charge of this life change.
The following steps can guide you through the decision-making process:
- Confirm your pregnancy with urine-based pregnancy testing.
- Following a positive result, confirm key pregnancy details like viability, gestational age, and location with an obstetric ultrasound.
- Use the ultrasound’s findings to determine your next steps (i.e., seeking care for a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, or exploring your options).
- Speak with a medical provider about your pregnancy and review your complete health history.
- Weigh your three pregnancy options: abortion, adoption, and parenting.
Of course, you should consider sharing your pregnancy news with loved ones, including your parents and partner. While your partner cannot force you to make a specific pregnancy decision, they may provide additional support or help you weigh your options. And, despite any initial shock and disappointment, your parents could provide helpful resources and shoulders to lean on.
Remember, this is your pregnancy. If you feel unsafe sharing the news with loved ones, you aren’t obligated to do so. And if you’re experiencing abuse, help is available. Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800.799.SAFE (7233) for 24/7 support.
What’s Next?
Navigating an unexpected pregnancy can be difficult. And there’s no shame in needing help. Pregnancy Help Center provides free, confidential services, including pregnancy testing, ultrasound referrals, options counseling, and more.
We don’t provide or refer for abortions, but we do educate you on the risks and side effects of each procedure. Our peer volunteers also provide adoption referrals and parenting information. If you choose parenting, we offer our “Earn While You Learn” program, which enables you to earn material items through parenting classes at our center.
Our center also provides community referrals for new and expectant parents. We’ll connect you to the resources you need to finish your education.
Contact us today to get started. We’re here for you.
