Navigating an Unplanned Pregnancy: What to Do First
Discovering that you have an unplanned pregnancy can be overwhelming, with countless questions racing through your mind. Unfortunately, the answers to these questions may not always be straightforward. Many of your concerns may revolve around your health, while others might focus on how the pregnancy will impact your relationships with your partner and family, as well as your current and future plans.
Even when friends, family, or your significant other are supportive, you will still benefit from outside assistance to help you navigate your way through an unplanned pregnancy. In particular, it is essential to seek help from qualified healthcare professionals specializing in pregnancy care. They can offer the information and support you need to assess your next steps with confidence. If you are in the Coeur d’Alene area, Open Arms Real Choices Clinic can provide that support. Here are three important issues to address:
1. Seek Medical Support
Before making any big decisions about how to move forward, it’s important to understand the medical status of your pregnancy. If you have a primary care doctor or OB-GYN, schedule an appointment. You can also contact Open Arms Real Choices Clinic in Coeur d’Alene, which offers free lab-quality pregnancy testing and limited obstetric ultrasounds performed by medical professionals.
At our clinic—or any reputable pregnancy clinic, you can expect compassionate, confidential care focused on your well-being. To ensure you receive the best support, be open and candid about your health history, including the date of your last period, current medications, any chronic conditions, and whether you smoke, drink alcohol, or use drugs.
2. Educate Yourself About Your Real Options
When facing an unplanned pregnancy, it’s only natural to feel conflicted. The decision of whether or not to continue a pregnancy can be one of the most important and personal choices you’ll ever make.
The good news is that you have options. While abortion may be the first choice that comes to mind, it’s essential to understand that it is not your only one. Adoption is a loving and life-affirming option for women who may not be ready to parent, and parenting itself becomes more attainable when you’re connected to strong support and resources. At Open Arms Real Choices Clinic, we offer classes, mentorship, and material assistance to help you prepare if you choose to parent.
No matter where you are emotionally, the key is to make an informed decision that aligns with your values, your life goals, and your well-being. You deserve time, space, and support to consider all your options without pressure.
3. Take Care of Yourself
During an unplanned pregnancy, caring for your physical, emotional, and mental health is essential, regardless of what you ultimately decide.
Start by making healthy choices: eat nutritious foods, take prenatal vitamins, and avoid alcohol, cigarettes, recreational drugs, and any medications not approved by a healthcare provider. These steps protect both you and the baby’s development in the early stages of pregnancy.
In addition, prioritize your mental and emotional health. It’s normal to feel a range of emotions, but you don’t have to carry them alone. Seek support from positive, trustworthy individuals, and consider speaking with a trained advocate or counselor. Open Arms Real Choices Clinic offers confidential support for women and men navigating the emotional and relational impact of pregnancy.
You Are Not Alone
An unplanned pregnancy can feel isolating, but help is available. At Open Arms Real Choices Clinic, we provide free services to help you understand your options, care for your health, and make informed, empowered choices for your future.
📞 Call us at 208.667.5433
📅 Schedule an appointment online: realchoicesclinic.com/make-an-appointment
📍 Visit us at 8056 N. Wayne Drive, Hayden, ID 83835
