Through the years, at Sira in Gainesville, we’ve answered questions from hundreds of young women facing the uncertainty of unplanned pregnancy. While each woman’s story is unique, there are some common themes. Below are the questions we answer most frequently.
The answers on this page are intentionally brief. Please click the “read more” links for more comprehensive explanations or call us at 352-377-4947 to talk about your individual needs. We’re here to provide you help for today and hope for tomorrow.
1. How do I know if my home pregnancy test is correct?
Even the best home pregnancy test can be wrong. They can tell you that you are pregnant when you’re not, or that you’re not pregnant when you are. To be absolutely certain, you must have a medical pregnancy test performed by a trained professional, followed by an obstetrical ultrasound. Read more.
2. What does early pregnancy feel like?
The most common early signs of pregnancy include missed period, nausea and vomiting, cramping and spotting, sore breasts, fatigue and tiredness. Several other symptoms may impact you to some degree. Any combination of these may signal it’s time to get a medical pregnancy test. Read more.
3. What should I do first if I think I’m pregnant?
The first thing to do is confirm you are indeed pregnant. (See question number 1 above.) After that, it’s about coming to terms with your options, relationships and resources, and then getting medical care. You’ll likely discover there are many people eager to support you. Read more.
4. How can I cope with the stress of my unplanned pregnancy?
Effectively dealing with stress is a vital part of making smart choices for you and your baby. Developing a pregnancy plan will help return your sense of control. Treating yourself with love will elevate your emotional and physical well-being, giving you the strength to be your best you. Read more.
5. How should I tell my boyfriend I’m pregnant?
Prepare in advance. Decide which pregnancy options you will and will not consider for your baby. Then, take deep breaths and exhale slowly to relax your body and spirit. Be honest and straightforward and share with your boyfriend your well-considered plan for moving forward. Read more.
6. Should I tell my parents I’m pregnant?
If your parents have supported you throughout your life, an unplanned pregnancy is unlikely to change that. And you probably want support now more than ever. Preparation is the key to making the conversation work. The tips in the “read more” article will definitely help. If your parents have not always been so supportive, try first talking with a pregnancy counselor to determine the best path forward. Read more.
7. What should I know if I’m considering abortion?
While abortion may seem like the “easy” way out, most women find the physical, emotional and spiritual risks and impacts outweigh that ease. That’s a big reason the number of abortions in the U.S. has dropped continually since 1990. Read some other facts you should know… Read more.
8. How can I support my pregnant partner?
Men also come to Sira for pregnancy advice. As the baby’s father, you play a critical role in contributing to your partner’s – and baby’s – happiness and well-being during pregnancy. That starts with learning about what she is going through, pitching in throughout the pregnancy and helping her make healthy choices. Read more.
9. Is it realistic to stay in college while having my baby?
Each year, thousands of young women complete college while raising children. The key is surrounding yourself with the right people and resources to manage the challenges and set you and your baby on a path to lifelong success. The five tips in this article are a great place to start… Read more.
10. What should I look for in a pregnancy center?
No two pregnancy centers are exactly the same. While many offer similar services, how they provide those services can vary quite a bit. Find a place where you are free to explore all your pregnancy options, where compassionate staff listen to your individual story and where you can connect to all the resources you and your baby need. At Sira in Gainesville, we believe the greatest gift you can give someone is hope, and we would be honored to offer that gift to you. Read more.
For more information about any of these topics, to talk privately with one of Sira’s pregnancy counselors, or to schedule your free pregnancy test, contact Sira in Gainesville today at 352-377-4947.