Seeing bright pink lines or the word “Pregnant” on a pregnancy test can be quite a shocker, especially if the pregnancy was unplanned. We understand it will take time to sink in, but don’t panic. You have options, and we hope you’ll schedule a free and confidential appointment with SouthWest Options for Women to discuss your next steps.
Coping With the News
An unexpected pregnancy can cause a variety of emotions: anxiety, joy, fear, and anger. You need to take a deep breath and follow some steps to help you cope with the new reality.
Get Confirmation
Although you may have taken a home pregnancy test, getting a second opinion is vital. Experts recommend taking more than one test to confirm the results.
Home pregnancy tests are reliable but follow the instructions carefully.
- Check the expiration date.
- Read the instructions thoroughly before taking the test.
- Wait until the first day after your missed period before testing.
- Take the test in the morning when your urine is the most concentrated.
- Wait the recommended amount of time before viewing the results.
- Retest.
At Southwest Options, we provide free and confidential pregnancy testing and ultrasound scans to confirm your pregnancy.
Allow for Your Emotions
It’s okay to be shocked. You weren’t expecting to be pregnant, which is a huge, life-changing situation. You owe it to yourself to take time to feel all the emotions.
Your emotions will most likely change throughout the day. As you begin to feel pregnancy symptoms physically, your hormones will also cause your mood to fluctuate. It’s essential to allow yourself to feel every emotion.
Learn About Your Options
You have three options: parenting your child, making an adoption plan, or choosing to have an abortion. Reviewing each option is critical for your mental and physical health.
Although we do not refer for or provide abortions, our team of client advocates can give you factual information about abortion procedures, side effects to expect, and potential physical and emotional risks.
We are not a child-placing agency, but we can offer referrals to reputable, licensed adoption agencies in our area that can answer your questions. We can also assist you with parenting, such as childbirth and parenting education, and one-on-one mentorships to help you find the parenting resources you need.
Reach Out for Help
Discovering you are suddenly and unexpectedly pregnant can leave you feeling lonely and helpless. We want you to know you are not alone.
Don’t be afraid to seek the support and answers you need. If you wish to discuss your pregnancy, options, or how to talk with your partner or family, we are here for you.
If you are genuinely struggling with your emotional health due to your pregnancy, call 1-800-311-BABY (2229). Your local Health Department can help you find the prenatal care and emotional help you need.
Please schedule a free and confidential appointment with a caring member of our team. Fill out our convenient online Contact Form or call (952) 938-4496. You matter to us!