How to cope with an unexpected pregnancy
Every pregnancy brings a rush of expected emotions, but an unplanned pregnancy may make you feel a flood of unexpected emotions.
Not expecting to find out you’re expecting can create a wave of emotions, from shock, embarrassment and fear to excitement, happiness and gratitude.
“Coping with an unplanned pregnancy necessitates time, space, and a support network. It’s not something you grasp overnight,” says Ann Douglas, author of The Mother of All Pregnancy Books. “You must actively work through your emotions.”
Here are five expert tips on how to deal with a surprise pregnancy:
Don’t panic
When you find out you’re pregnant, the most important thing to remember is also the simplest: don’t panic. It’s easy to start imagining bad outcomes, but take some deep breaths and try to stay calm. Remember that every day, women and couples face unplanned pregnancy and parenting. You are not alone, and there are always options for getting help.
Check to make sure you’re pregnant
You might be surprised to learn how many women start worrying about being pregnant before even taking a pregnancy test. While a missed or late period is a common sign of pregnancy, it is not always accurate. To ensure that you are truly pregnant, you must use an accurate pregnancy test or book an appointment with your healthcare provider.
Ensure that you are in good health
Once you’ve confirmed that you’re pregnant, you must ensure that the pregnancy is healthy and viable. An ultrasound can tell you whether your pregnancy is healthy and growing normally in your uterus. It can also tell you your baby’s estimated gestational age and estimated due date.
Find someone to talk to
If you can’t turn to your partner, turn to a therapist, life coach, close relative, or friend for support.
Learn about and consider all options
Not sure if you’re ready to become a parent? You have several pregnancy options to choose from. Each has advantages and disadvantages, so you must research them all to make an informed decision. Your healthcare provider can also assist in providing you with details of support groups that may be able to assist you.
