An unplanned pregnancy may seem to hit you out of nowhere. You weren’t expecting it, and it can lead to a flurry of unwanted anxiety and fear. What’s more, you might have questions about what’s next. What are your options, and what’s the best one for you?
What to Do Before Making a Decision
First, you’ll want to confirm key pregnancy details by having an obstetric ultrasound. This type of ultrasound verifies the viability of your pregnancy to ensure you aren’t having a miscarriage, and it also determines your gestational age and the location of your pregnancy.
You’ll also want to have a physical exam performed by your healthcare provider to ensure you’re in good health and don’t need additional medical care. Once these steps are taken, you can weigh options like abortion, parenting, and adoption.
Is Abortion the Best Option for Me?
Abortion is a major medical procedure, and it is currently banned in Idaho, with exceptions for rape or incest. This means you would have to travel elsewhere for the procedure.
There are two forms of abortion: medical and surgical. Medical abortion is performed during the first 10 weeks of pregnancy and involves using mifepristone and misoprostol to end a pregnancy. You’ll likely experience some bleeding and cramping after the procedure, though more serious risks like incomplete abortion may occur.
A surgical abortion is performed later in pregnancy and is more complicated. The most common surgical abortion procedure is called dilation and curettage, which uses a combination of medication, surgical instruments, and a suctioning technique to remove the pregnancy from the uterus. Cramping and bleeding may also occur, though you are at risk of more serious complications such as hemorrhaging and damage to the cervix.
Weigh your options carefully when considering abortion and consider the risks of each procedure. You must receive accurate medical information from a source such as a local pregnancy center before deciding.
Parenting
Parenting can feel like a very daunting decision. You may feel overwhelmed when thinking about becoming a parent, or maybe you don’t feel ready for the responsibilities that come with being in charge of another life. WISH Medical is here to explore your options with you and connect you with resources should you decide to go in the parenting direction. We can connect you with support, free physical resources and free local parenting classes at Life Bridge that will help you prepare for your parenting journey.
Adoption: A Bittersweet but Beautiful Journey
You may have heard many things about adoption. It can indeed be emotionally challenging for the birth parents, but with the right plan and support, it can be a rewarding experience. Many women enjoy forming relationships with the child and actively participating in the adoption process.
- Open adoption: With this form of adoption, you have a say in the process and can choose the adoptive parents. You also get to form a relationship with the child and adoptive family.
- Semi-open adoption: You can form a relationship, but all communication is carried out via a third party, like an adoption attorney or agency.
- Closed adoption: This option is best for women who value their privacy. No communication occurs, and all adoption records are sealed. The woman remains anonymous.
Adoption isn’t for everyone, but it may bring the peace of mind and comfort you need. Knowing the child is safe and cared for can be what you need, and many resources are available to help you during the adoption journey.
Get the Answers You Need
WISH Medical is here for you during your unplanned pregnancy. We offer limited ultrasounds at no cost to you and options consultations performed by trained advocates.
Don’t delay in seeking the support and information you need. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our caring team.