but place the child up for adoption, or you may choose to
terminate the pregnancy. What to do about your unplanned pregnancy is your
decision. What factors might contribute to your decision? First of all,
consider your personal beliefs, and values, your present status and needs,
and your plans for the future.
A pregnancy, whether planned, or unplanned, has a great deal of influence
on the rest of your life, as well as the life of your unborn child.
Your decision will be greatly affected by what your current situation
dictates. What do you want at this point in your life? What are your current
capabilities? While it's true that you might decide differently had the
pregnancy happened at a different time in your life, it is important for you to
do what you feel is right for you right now.
Whom Can You Talk To?
If you are involved in a committed relationship, you should discuss the
pregnancy with your partner. In this type of relationship, the news of a
pregnancy, even an unplanned one, can be cause for great joy. However, while the
choice of what to do is ultimately yours, it is necessary to find out how your
partner feels about the pregnancy. Just as you assessed your own situation, you
must consider your partner's feelings, desires, and goals when making your
choice. The decision will greatly impact both of your lives, as the
responsibilities of having, and raising a child are shared responsibilities.
If you were not involved in a committed relationship when the pregnancy
occurred, and you are trying to decide what to do about the pregnancy, it would
be very advisable to consult with a health care provider. Health care providers
are trained to be supportive, and non-judgmental. They will have all the
necessary information you need about pregnancy, and if you request it, abortion.
Additional support and information regarding an unplanned pregnancy can also be
found in a number of community, and online resources for women. Your doctor, or
other health care provider should be able to refer you to your community
resources. Online support and information resources are available with a simple
Internet search. The results will provide you with a large number of websites
you can visit.
It may also be a good idea to speak with a trained counselor. An unplanned
pregnancy can produce many different feelings in a woman, including guilt and
fear. If you have these feelings, you need to talk with someone knowledgeable,
and non-judgmental, whether or not you decide to go through with the pregnancy.
If you choose to raise the child, you will need to deal with your feelings
regarding your pregnancy, and begin to prepare for motherhood. Should you decide
to have the child, and then place the child up for adoption, you need to discuss
the feelings of loss that may arise. If it is your intention to terminate the
pregnancy, you will need to talk about this decision and how you really feel
about it. Many people consider abortion to be unacceptable, but if it is what
you really want, you may find it difficult to feel that you have done the right
thing. Counseling is critical.
If you have strong religious beliefs, you will want to consider the teachings
of your religion regarding pregnancy. Many religions oppose abortion, but not
all women feel compelled to follow the teachings of their religion on what to do
about an unplanned pregnancy.
If at all possible, confide in your family, or friends. It may also be
advisable to talk to a priest, or pastor; especially if you are struggling with
the decision to raise the child, or place the child up for adoption.
Whatever you decide, it is imperative that you get the required medical
attention for your pregnancy. Be sure to take advantage of all support services
offered in your community, or online. Don't be afraid to share your feelings
about the unplanned pregnancy, and about making your decisions, with someone you
trust. It is important to make an informed, and intelligent decision regarding
what you feel is best for you, not what you think may be expected of you.
Having made your decisions, accept them, and plan for the rest of your life.
Carl DiNello is an Article Author whose articles are featured on websites
covering the Internet's most popular topics.
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