I'm Pregnant... Now What?

The first time you see those fateful two lines on a pregnancy test, it is really hard to describe how you feel. You may feel confused, stressed, excited, terrified, panicked, and the list goes on. Time almost stops as your future floods before you. You ask questions like: Is this accurate? Should I take another test? What if it’s a faulty test? You might take another test, or a few, just to be sure. These seemingly normal feelings can be amplified if the pregnancy is unplanned, and may cause another element of stress if you don’t feel prepared.

This is something I can completely relate to, as I have experienced an unplanned pregnancy. My partner and I had been together for a while, and were starting to warm up to the idea of having children, but when the test went positive, we could not believe it. My partner needed several days to process the news, whereas I, being a goal oriented planner, needed to map out what to do next.

Three things to do after taking a pregnancy test:

First, talk to a trusted person about this. You may have a lot of concerns and emotions and it helps to express those to someone you are close to. Talking about our issues can bring great relief to our situation, and allow us to think more clearly than we would on our own. This person may be your partner, best friend, mentor, parent, and the list goes on. Finding someone to talk to is important not only for your mental state, but to help you with decisions going forward.

Second, book a doctor’s appointment to confirm your pregnancy. The doctor is the first place you should visit after those two lines appear. The doctor can confirm the pregnancy and give you next steps on what to do. My suggestion is to bring someone with you to this appointment. Due to the shock of what is happening, you may not remember or hear most of what the doctor tells you. Bring a trusted person (partner, friend, mentor, etc) with you so you remember everything.

Thirdly, make a plan. Talking to others and going to the doctor is a start, but being aware and fully informed on all your options can allow you to feel empowered to move forward. When we are empowered with information, we can make real, informed choices. At Pregnancy Options, our goal is to provide truth about your body, truth about your options, and hope for your future. We can help you process those emotions, look at all of your options (abortion, adoption and parenting) and provide resources that fit your informed decision.

If you are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, we would love to talk to you. You can contact us through our website, by phone, text or email.

You are not alone. You have support and you have options.