Finding out that you are pregnant when you least expect it is a common situation, especially in India, where contraceptive use is not commonly accepted

People who are pregnant have three options:

  • Parenting
  • Abortion
  • Adoption

Sometimes, deciding what to do with an unplanned pregnancy is easy, and sometimes it is complicated. Remember that your decision is very personal and 100% yours. Making a decision regarding an unplanned pregnancy is an extremely personal one. Although accurate and unbiased support helps, only you know what is truly best for you.

Dealing With Unplanned Pregnancy 

What can help me decide?

Many things can come into consideration when making a decision about an unplanned pregnancy, including family, relationships, school, work, career, life goals, money, health, safety and personal beliefs.

It might be helpful to ask yourself questions like:

  • How do you feel when you think about abortion, adoption and parenting?
  • What do you want for your future and your family?
  • How will your decision influence your future?
  • How will it affect your family or other children?
  • Are you ready to raise a child right now?
  • Do you have strong personal or religious beliefs about abortion, parenting or adoption?
  • Are you being pressured directly or indirectly by someone to make a certain choice?
  • What are the abortion laws in India or your country of residence?

The above are some things you must consider, and it is normal to have conflicting feelings when making a decision. Take the help of people whom you know are understanding and will not judge you.

Whom can I talk to?

Talking with your partner, a trusted family member, a friend or a trusted religious advisor, or a doctor/counsellor about your options can be helpful when you are dealing with unplanned pregnancy.

Take the help of a gynaecologist who can give you accurate, non-judgmental information on all your options, answer your questions, and offer support as you make the right decision on how to deal with unplanned pregnancy.

Key Points To Remember When Making This Decision

Your feelings matter, and whatever decision you make, it is bound to be a stressful time for you. Some things that can help are:

  • Don’t rush your decision but remember that some options are influenced by how many weeks pregnant you are.
  • Permit yourself to explore all your options.
  • Be kind to yourself.
  • Find as much information about what you need to support your decision.
  • Make sure to look after yourself physically and emotionally.

It is important to take the time to make the best decision for you. The timing of your decision, however, can affect the option you have.

If you are considering abortion, it can get harder to find a doctor who will perform an abortion after the 12th week of pregnancy or the first trimester.

If you choose to parent the child or place it for adoption- you will need to contact a health care provider to get prenatal care as soon as possible. It is important that you take care of your health, eat well, take prenatal vitamins with folic acid and avoid alcohol and smoking during this period.