An unexpected pregnancy can feel like a shock to the system. You will likely experience
many emotions, varying from nervousness and excitement to anxiety or dread.
As much as the feelings might seem specific to you, it might help to know many women have
stood in your shoes, as approximately half of all pregnancies are unplanned.
The emotions are natural for your circumstances, but there are actions you can take to
manage your feelings and take the next best steps for you. Read the following advice on
how to cope with an unplanned pregnancy.
Give Yourself Time to Process the News
It is normal to feel in shock after a positive pregnancy test. As a baby will affect your life, you
will likely experience many emotions and have swirling thoughts you can’t seem to control.
For this reason, you must give yourself time to process the news, as it will help you gain
perspective and to take the next best steps for your desires and circumstances.
Seek Emotional Support
It is important to lean on a trusted support system to emotionally cope with an unexpected
pregnancy.
It might feel helpful to confide in your partner, best friend(s), or a supportive relative to
validate your feelings and put your worries into perspective.
If you cannot open up to a loved one, you might find it beneficial to talk to a non-judgmental
counselor about your thoughts and emotions.
Learn About Your Options
Learning about your options could put your feelings into perspective. For example,
understanding more about the adoption process might convince you it is the right step for
you and the baby.
Yet, you might feel more confident and comfortable embarking on motherhood by adjusting
your monthly finances or making changes to your home, career, or lifestyle.
If you don’t want to become a parent, you could learn more about your rights to an abortion
and the various clinics available.
Unfortunately, not every pregnant woman worldwide has access to an abortion, such as in
many US states following the overturning of Roe v Wade.
Yet, many women can travel elsewhere to attend a clinic for a safe, non-judgmental
termination.
Learn about the different clinics available, such as this legal abortion clinic Sydney that
provides various services, such as medical abortion and counseling.
Organize an Appointment with a Doctor
If you are struggling to cope with your emotions or want to make a more informed choice,
don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with a doctor.
A doctor can provide advice regarding your pregnancy and the available options, which
could help you make the best decision for you.
Also, they could provide advice on how to manage difficult emotions, such as anxiety or
depression. It is important to treat yourself with kindness and understanding during this
unexpected period.
If you embrace your emotions, learn about your options, and confide in others, you could
soon overcome the challenging feelings and make the right decision for yourself and your
circumstances.
