College is an incredible time for exploration and learning, paving the way towards your life’s goals. For many young women, however, life takes an unexpected turn in the form of an unplanned pregnancy. Thousands of college students get pregnant each year in the U.S., leaving many searching for guidance as they struggle with what to do next.
The initial shock of learning you’re pregnant often turns into stress, anxiety and rapid-fire thoughts. Some young women immediately think of abortion as a way to, “make the problem go away,” but few are prepared for the physical and emotional impacts they may experience for years to come. Other young women simply freeze up, denying the reality of their situation, while making unhealthy choices that could negatively impact them and their babies.
During this challenging time, it’s important to make smart, calm decisions to ensure your best path forward.
First, Overcome the Initial Flood of Anxiety
Control your breathing, quiet your mind and try to relax. Reflection and/or prayer can be very useful in this moment. Recognize that you are just as strong and amazing today as you were yesterday, and that you are deserving of love, especially from yourself. Don’t charge into poor decisions. Take time to get your mind into a calm, productive state.
Then, Confirm You’re Pregnant
While home pregnancy tests provide an indication as to whether or not you are pregnant, they’re not as reliable as medical pregnancy testing. Regardless of any home pregnancy test result, if you believe you might be pregnant, you should always follow up with a medical pregnancy test. In Gainesville, you can get free medical pregnancy testing by contacting Sira.
Next, Get Some Trusted Advice
Parents, friends and your partner are all potentially good sources to turn to for guidance. Assess who will likely respond with compassion and empathy rather than frustration and judgment. If you would like to first get some insight from an unbiased third-party, a trained pregnancy counselor can be an ideal person to talk to. They’ll listen to your concerns and answer all your questions about the pregnancy options available to you.
Make a Plan and Get Some Assistance
Once you decide which pregnancy option is best for you and your baby, determine what you need in order to make it happen. If you choose adoption, you may need assistance creating an adoption plan and connecting with resources to support you financially, emotionally and medically during your pregnancy. If you decide to raise your baby, you may also need assistance finding academic help to allow you to continue attending college throughout your pregnancy and beyond. Women and family advocates, like those at Sira in Gainesville, can help you find the resources you need to see your pregnancy plan all the way through.
Sira is here to provide help for today and hope for tomorrow for any pregnant woman, whether you’re in college or not. We offer free medical pregnancy testing and pregnancy counseling, with no insurance required. All you have to do is contact Sira today to schedule an appointment. Call us at 352-377-4947.