How to Create a Support Team During an Unplanned Pregnancy
You do not have to face your unplanned pregnancy alone. Wherever you are, you have options for support all around you — and creating the right support team can make all the difference during this time.
Whether it’s at home, in your community, or anywhere else, you can benefit greatly from a strong network of people who are ready to help you through your pregnancy. When you reach out to those you trust, they can offer you:
- Non-judgmental advice
- Emotional support
- Help preparing for your pregnancy
- Help with daily tasks
Here, you can find some of the people you might include in your support team and how they can help you.
Your Family
Family members, especially parents, are often the main pillars of support for women going through an unplanned pregnancy. They know you better than anyone else, and they can be there for you from beginning to end.
Even though it might be difficult to give them the news, accepting the support of your closest family members is good for both you and them. They love you, they want the best for you, and they want to be there for you.
Your Friends
In addition to providing help and emotional support, spending time with your friends can be a great stress reliever. When you feel overwhelmed with thoughts about your unplanned pregnancy, socializing can help you to remain calm and feel more like yourself.
At the same time, it might be hard for them to understand exactly what you’re going through. Remind them that things will be different with you for a while, and don’t be afraid to let them know how you’re feeling or what you need.
You may also want to have a conversation about when and where to talk about your pregnancy. If you are hoping to maintain your privacy, confide in your trusted friends and ask for their discretion.
Your Baby’s Father
Every woman in your position has a unique relationship with her baby’s father, and only you know what role the father should play in your life. But in the right circumstances, the father can be a trusted companion in this process. Be as open with your baby’s father as you can, and let him know what you need and expect from him.
At the same time, he will likely have his own emotions and challenges, and during those times, you can be there for him. The two of you know what you are going through better than anyone else, and that means you can both do a lot to help and support each other.
Your Community
Your support team does not have to end at your doorstep. Many people find comfort and advice in their surrounding community. If you are looking out into your community for support, you may decide to reach out to your:
- Counselor – If you are not already seeing a counselor, you might consider contacting someone who specializes in pregnancy-related concerns or consider an unplanned pregnancy options counselor.
- Teacher, coach, or other mentor – The people you look up to in your day-to-day life can also give you strength and encouragement as you figure out what to do.
- Church or religious leader – If you are involved in your church community, they can often be like family when you are in need.
- Unplanned pregnancy support group – Many areas have local support groups for women in your exact position.
Look for available resources in your community to find additional support for you.
Other Means of Support
Whether you feel like you have no one to talk to, you’re looking for extra information, or you just need a little more support, see the contact information for the following:
- Local pregnancy centers – Find a pregnancy center near you and contact someone who can help you.
- Planned Parenthood – Planned Parenthood has clinics all across the nation and can provide you with a variety of services.
- American Adoptions – Talk to a licensed social worker about not just adoption but all your unplanned pregnancy options.
Take the time to carefully consider who you want to support you during your unplanned pregnancy — the people around you can make a world of difference as you decide what to do next.