Resources

While you may feel alone or unsupported during your unplanned pregnancy, it's important to remember that you're not. You may not have family members or close friends around to support you, but you do have ample resources from which to choose; you just have to know where to look. The three main areas of need for many women experiencing an unplanned pregnancy are financial, medical, and emotional. This section will provide you with the resources and information you need to make informed decisions on all aspects of your pregnancy.

Financial: When a pregnancy is unplanned, it can bring a lot of financial issues with it. This is because of the simple fact that it is unplanned. There was no time to prepare your finances for pregnancy and its costs. The first place you'll need to look for financial assistance is for state-funded programs or charities that are directed towards women experiencing unplanned pregnancies. Also, look into church-run programs in your area. These programs can help you with medical expenses, housing, groceries, and transportation during your pregnancy. You should never feel embarrassed or ashamed about asking for or needing help. These programs were designed to help those in need, to help you get back on your feet and support you when you can't support yourself.

Medical: If you've never been pregnant before, experiencing an unplanned pregnancy can be quite overwhelming, especially from the medical viewpoint. This section will guide you through the process of finding the right provider for you and your specific situation. It will help you understand which questions to ask and where to find potential providers. As important as finding the right provider is, it's also important to provide your body with the right nutrition and supplements to support pregnancy. Along with proper nutrition, your activity level is important. Not only does your fitness or activity level physically support you and your baby, but it also supports you mentally and emotionally.

Emotional: Pregnancy can be tough on your body, mind, and your emotions. That's why it's important to take care of your emotional health. Many pregnant women find it helpful to take several personal breaks throughout the day. If you're feeling overwhelmed, take a nap, go for a walk, watch a movie, read a book, or just rest and relax. Give yourself the time to de-stress when you need to. If you need more emotional support, consider visiting with a counselor or therapist. S/he can help put what you're feeling into perspective. If you're up to it, actively participate in a local or online support group. Remember, you're not alone. Another great way to strengthen your emotional health during pregnancy is to reach out to your support system: close, trusted friends and family members.

Pregnancy resources are widely available. Seek out the help, assistance, or support you need. There are people and organizations that are just waiting to help those in need. If you need help, give them the opportunity to do so. Sometimes you can't do everything on your own, and it can be a great learning and growing experience for you when you allow other people in your life, to help you through the tough or stressful times. Reach out and you'll find people reaching back to help you. Take the first step to happy and healthy; you deserve it!