When you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, it can feel like everyone has an opinion about what you should do. A parent may tell you one thing, your partner another, and friends may offer advice you never asked for. Before long, it may seem like you’re trying to keep everyone else happy while losing sight of how you’re feeling.
This is a significant decision, and you deserve the opportunity to understand your pregnancy and carefully consider your options. If you’d like a place to ask questions and discuss your concerns, schedule a free, confidential appointment with Birthright of Greater Hartford. We’d be happy to help.
Other People’s Opinions Shouldn’t Dictate This Process
The people closest to you often speak from a place of concern. Your parents may be worried about your future, your education, or your finances. Your partner may be thinking about how a pregnancy could change both of your lives.
Even when those concerns are genuine or coming from a good place, they shouldn’t leave you feeling like you have no voice. This is your pregnancy, and the decision you make is one you’ll navigate after everyone else’s opinions have faded.
If you feel pressured to give an immediate answer, it’s perfectly okay to say you need more time to gather information and think things through. Regardless of how close you are with your friends and family, you alone have the right to make this decision.
Get the Facts Before You Decide
Making a major decision is difficult if you’re working with incomplete information.
Start by confirming your pregnancy with an ultrasound to learn how far along you are. We can help connect you to ultrasound services that provide this information.
Taking time to learn about parenting, adoption, and abortion will also help you understand what each option involves. Learning abortion’s risks and side effects, understanding what parenting and adoption resources are available, and addressing any questions you have can build a stronger foundation to decide from.
Reliable information can help you feel reassured as you evaluate what’s best for your situation.
If Loved Ones Become Controlling or Threatening
Pressure isn’t always limited to strong opinions. In some relationships, it can become controlling or even abusive.
If someone is threatening you, trying to isolate you, monitoring your activities, or making you feel unsafe because of your pregnancy, please know that you deserve support and protection. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24 hours a day at 1-800-799-723.
You Don’t Have to Figure This Out by Yourself
Big decisions rarely become easier when you’re surrounded by pressure from every direction. Having a place to ask questions and learn about your pregnancy can make a big difference.
At Birthright of Greater Hartford, we’re here to help you explore your options in a confidential setting. If you’re looking for answers before making a decision, we’d be glad to meet with you. Schedule your free appointment today.
Birthright of Greater Hartford does not provide or refer for abortions.