Pregnancy

Unplanned pregnancy can strike anyone that is sexually active whether they are teenagers, in college, happily married, sometimes in your 40’s and rarely but sometimes during menopause, or rather a peri-menopausal state. It is important to know how to take care of yourself and your unborn baby despite which of these pregnancy scenario’s you might be encountering. More importantly, understanding what to expect in each trimester will help you map and prepare each period of your pregnancy.

If you are experiencing a teen pregnancy, it will be important for you to tell your parents as soon as possible so that they can help you line up the appropriate doctors visits and arrange your prenatal care. Discussing adoption options or what to expect when teen parenting will be important so that you can start researching what options will be best for the baby long term. Sometimes therapy or counseling can be helpful, providing a non- biased perspective on the situation. Talking with your family, doctors and counselors can really take some of the stress of your situation off your shoulders giving you the support you need to face an unplanned pregnancy.

College unplanned pregnancies are fairly common. You are older, maybe living on your own experiencing new freedoms you might not have had while living under your parent’s roof. You have some difficult decisions ahead of you. You are not a teenager anymore, but may not be totally self supporting yet relying on financial support from parents, or living off of student loans while working your way through college. Don’t give up hope yet. Identify your support, let your family, friends know so that they can offer any support or help they may be willing to provide.

Let the father know you are carrying his child and your thoughts on abortion, adoption or parenting and discuss what support he may or may not be willing to provide. Sometimes this is a quick way to rule out options, as far as parenting or adoption is concerned. Most states do not require the father’s consent for abortion. If that is the route you have chosen make sure you understand all the risks, complications and long term emotional and sometime physical effects abortion can cause.

Get to the doctor’s! Some schools offer free or reduced price clinics for students that can provide assistance to expectant mothers as well as ultrasounds and prenatal care. Create your birth plan and start exploring your options. The more planning you can do before baby comes, the less stressful and easier it will be to jump back into your work and studies after regardless your choice.

If you are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy after 40 or in a peri-menopausal state, you may be a bit in shock! Do not panic; simply make arrangements to get into your doctor as soon as possible. There are increased risks involved with pregnancies over 35, but there are several tests and protocol your doctor will implement to keep you informed throughout your pregnancy. Early detection is key here and with increased awareness you can have a safe and healthy pregnancy.

Despite your age or how you found yourself in an unplanned pregnancy, support is available to see you through your pregnancy.