Facing an unplanned pregnancy can create feelings of anxiety about the future and what your life might look like.
While it can be tempting to want to hide your pregnancy, it is critical to ask yourself why you want to keep the news of your pregnancy from those closest to you.
Are you fearful of what your partner might do if he finds out?
If you are in an abusive relationship or feel unsafe with your partner, it is vital to contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline (800) 799-SAFE to make a plan to keep you safe.
Perhaps you’re worried about the judgment you might get from family or friends, or you’re fearful that you might not be able to continue achieving your career or schooling goals.
Continue reading to learn more about how to make an informed pregnancy decision and how to seek support on your journey.
Abortion Eligibility and Risks
If you’re considering abortion, you should know that not all pregnant women are eligible.
Confirming your pregnancy with a lab-quality pregnancy test and learning more with an ultrasound scan is critical to determining your eligibility.
Details revealed through ultrasound, like the gestational age, location, and viability of the pregnancy, all help determine if you are eligible for an abortion.
While you may be hopeful that abortion will help your life get back to “normal,” it is vital to understand the potential health risks.
Risks of medical abortion include:
- Incomplete abortion, potentially requiring a follow-up surgical procedure
- Ongoing pregnancy
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive issues
What Are My Other Options?
Even if you feel confident that abortion is the right option for you, you may want to consider learning more about your other pregnancy options: adoption or parenting.
If you want to learn more, Palm Beach Women’s Clinic’s client advocates can provide support and guidance as you consider which pregnancy option may be best for you.
They can answer your questions about adoption and parenting and connect you with local community resources.
Ways we can help include:
- Connecting you with local adoption agencies
- Providing financial assistance
- Referrals for connections for insurance and healthcare needs
- Connecting women with parenting classes
- Providing baby essentials
Seeking Support
Carrying the weight of an unplanned pregnancy all on your own can feel overwhelming.
Sharing the news of your pregnancy with someone you trust may help ease some of the challenges you’re facing, and discussing your options with someone who knows you well may help you gain clarity.
While opening up doesn’t change your circumstances, it can allow others to support you as you navigate this difficult season.
Share with someone who you feel safe with and respect. They may initially be shocked, but as the shock passes, you may be surprised at the support you receive.
Get Help Today
Palm Beach Women’s Clinic can help you learn more about your pregnancy and options with a free lab-quality pregnancy test and follow-up ultrasound scan. Our trusted staff can answer your questions and provide resources to help you take your next steps.
Contact us today for your confidential appointment.
Palm Beach Women’s Clinic does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.