Are you facing an unplanned pregnancy in New Orleans? It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. This is a life-changing moment, and it’s important to take time to understand your options and make the best choice for yourself and your baby. St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to support you throughout what comes next, offering kind, judgment-free counseling and various resources to help you navigate this difficult time.
Looking at the choices ahead of you can freeze you in your tracks. That’s where these five tips can help. Follow these helpful pointers to calm your mind, and then make your plan for moving forward.
5 Practical Tips for Handling an Unplanned Pregnancy
After finding out you are pregnant, your mind and choices can feel jumbled. Do you raise your child or choose other options? How do you deal with the financial and emotional pressures of the news? Where do you turn for support?
Here are five tips to help you cope with an unplanned pregnancy and decide what to do next. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey — and with a bit of guidance, you can find the path that feels right for you.
1. Pause and Take a Moment to Breathe
Many emotions come with the news of an unplanned pregnancy. Some may feel excited about the news once the first surprise fades. For many others, they may feel scared, confused, and embarrassed.
In this wave of emotions, allowing yourself to pause and breathe is important. Calm yourself by making space for your feelings without rushing into a decision.
Making space for you to cope with this unexpected change can help you clear your mind and regain focus. Then, you will be more able to make a well-informed decision that is best for you and your baby.
2. Consult With a Healthcare Professional
Once you’ve had a moment to breathe, the next step is to visit a doctor’s office. Talking with a healthcare professional is important. Your doctor can confirm your pregnancy, check your health, and help you understand the physical aspects of pregnancy. This includes advice and instructions to take the best care of your body and your baby. Even if you decide against parenting your baby, staying as healthy as possible is essential to avoid complications.
FAQ: Health Tips for Expectant Mothers
We know that making the right health choices during pregnancy can feel overwhelming, so we at St. Elizabeth Foundation have made a friendly guide with answers to your most common questions.
Remember, every pregnancy journey is unique, and what’s best for one might not be for another. Chatting with a healthcare professional who knows your needs is always a good idea. But here are some easy, general tips to help get you started!
Q1: What should I include in my diet during pregnancy?
A1: A balanced diet is important during pregnancy. Focus on eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Foods rich in folic acid, such as leafy greens and fortified cereals, are essential for preventing birth defects.
On the other side of the diet, avoid eating foods that may contain bacteria for your baby. This includes raw fish, deli meat, and raw sprouts.
Also, remember that pregnant individuals need to drink more water, suggesting eight to ten cups daily. Staying hydrated and limiting caffeine and processed foods are also recommended.
Q2: Is exercise safe during pregnancy?
A2: Caring for your physical health during pregnancy is so important, but remember not to overdo it. Aim for about 2.5 hours a week of activities like walking or prenatal yoga. In fact, staying active is said to make you feel more comfortable and lessen constipation and backaches, lower risks like preeclampsia, and can make recovery after childbirth easier.
Plus, it can boost your mood by increasing confidence and reducing anxiety. Always check with your doctor before starting new exercises to keep you and your baby safe.
Q3: How often should I see my healthcare provider during pregnancy?
A3: Regular pregnancy care is important. Your doctor will schedule appointments to keep an eye on your baby’s growth and address any concerns. These visits are crucial for necessary screenings and vaccinations to keep both you and your baby healthy.
Q4: How can I manage stress and maintain emotional well-being during pregnancy?
A4: Pregnancy can be an emotional time. You can manage stress by doing things like deep breathing, meditation, and gentle stretching.
It’s also helpful to have a strong support system of friends and family. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, professional help can be helpful.
3. Build a Strong Support System
We know that an unexpected pregnancy can leave you feeling alone, but we want you to know that you aren’t alone. Building a good support system is important. Whether you go to your your partner, family, or close friends, having people to talk to can help you work through your feelings and make decisions with a clear head.
Unfortunately, not everyone in your life may be supportive of your decisions. That’s okay — your choices are yours, and you decide who will be near you throughout the process.
If you find that you need outside support, St. Elizabeth Foundation offers free counseling services. Our experienced staff provides a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your options and receive emotional support during this challenging time.
4. Explore All of Your Options
It’s important to know that you have options available to you. When facing an unplanned pregnancy, your choices often fall into two categories in Louisiana: parenting or adoption. Both of these options come with their own set of emotional, financial, and practical factors.
Imagine yourself in each of these positions. How would you feel after making your decision? Can you picture yourself as a mother? Are you financially able to support a child yourself? These are all important questions to help you reach your final decision.
Whatever path you choose, know that St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to offer advice and support every step of the way. Our team is trained to help you process your emotions and make informed decisions about your future.
5. Create a Plan for Your Next Steps
After carefully thinking about your options and deciding, it’s time to start planning your next steps.
If you decide that adoption is the right path for you, St. Elizabeth Foundation can help with the adoption process. Our team connects expectant mothers with adoptive parents. We also help you with financial burdens and birth planning. If you choose adoption or find after birth that you are not able to parent your child, we can help you find a loving home for your baby in open, semi-closed, or closed adoptions!
We believe that every expectant mother deserves the resources and support needed to make a well-informed choice. Whether you’re interested in open adoption, semi-open adoption, or a completely private option, we can help you find the right solution for you and your baby. Our mission is to ensure that both you and your child have the best possible future, regardless of the path you choose.
Find Support for Your Unplanned Pregnancy in New Orleans
St. Elizabeth Foundation is your safe haven for judgment-free care and counseling. We make sure that you know every option available to you and help you make the best decision for you and your baby. If you decide that adoption is right for you, we are prepared to help you find a safe, loving home for your child.
Call us at 225-769-8888 or send us a message. We are here to support you with education and free resources during this time of uncertainty so that you can find your resolution.