Facing a crisis pregnancy is scary. I know, because I had one. It seems like all the odds are stacked against you. You have some big choices to make, and lost doesn’t even begin to describe all the emotions. How do you get through it? Here are five pieces of advice from someone who has been there.
1. Don’t be ashamed
Being pregnant is not something to be ashamed of. Maybe you aren’t proud of the choices that led up to the pregnancy. But the child, in and of itself, deserves to be celebrated as much as any other baby. It hasn’t done anything wrong, and neither have you. It doesn’t matter what anyone else says–this is your pregnancy and your choice, and you can choose how you feel about it. It won’t be easy, but no matter what you decide, you don’t need to be ashamed.
2. Consider your options carefully
There is no easy ‘solution’ to a crisis pregnancy. Parenting, placing for adoption, and aborting all come with consequences that should be seriously considered. Making a snap decision without carefully weighing the pros and cons will likely lead to regret. You have some time to decide what to do. Take all the time you need, and use both your head and your heart to make decisions.
3. Breathe
Take your time. You don’t have to make all the decisions right now. You have nine months. Take it one day at a time, and take care of yourself and your baby by getting enough sleep, exercising, and eating right. These basic things can be difficult to do when you’re going through a crisis, but making simple healthy changes will make a world of difference in your ability to feel good and think clearly.
4. Build a support system
You don’t have to go through this alone. More than likely, you have family and friends who will be there to support you. Even if you don’t, you can find a support group for women facing crisis pregnancies or a therapist who offers individual counseling. Find a doctor that will make sure you and your baby are healthy. Make use of anyone and everyone who can help you get through this pregnancy.
5. Don’t give up
You can do this. I know, because I did. A crisis pregnancy doesn’t ruin your life, it just changes it. You are strong enough to get through it, smart enough to know what to do, and capable enough to carry it out. Your mothers’ intuition will help you along the way.
Are you considering adoption and want to give your child the best life possible? Let us help you find an adoptive family that you love. Visit Adoption.org or call 1-800-ADOPT-98.
