Pregnancy has a way of showing up at the most unexpected times – and sometimes when it’s least convenient. Unplanned pregnancies can be a cause of stress for both mother and father, as they may feel they are not ready or prepared to take on the responsibilities of parenthood. This doesn’t mean that the pregnancy is unwelcome, but rather that the parents need some time to adjust and plan for the new arrival.
If you’re worried and stressed about an unplanned pregnancy, here are some tips to help you relax.
It can be difficult to open up about our problems, but it’s important to find someone we can communicate with honestly. This person should be someone who we don’t feel will judge us like a family member or close friend. If there’s no one we feel comfortable talking to, there are professionals we can speak to like counselors.
You can’t keep your pregnancy a secret forever. The sooner things are out in the open, the better. You may find that you get a variety of reactions, some good and some bad. Some people sour at the thought of unplanned pregnancy, particularly if you are young and unmarried. There is nothing you can do to change their views. Simply be honest and open with them and if they insult or degrade you, cut them out of your life. You don’t have time to deal with unsupportive people at this trying period in your life.
If you’re feeling down or bogged down, don’t hesitate to seek out professional help. Your health and your baby’s health could be at stake if you let yourself get too depressed or lethargic.
Fathers need to be informed and included in the discussion as soon as possible after their partner becomes pregnant. It’s important to have a mutual conversation about your options and what you both want for your future together. Unfortunately, some men are unwilling to take responsibility for a baby and will leave at the first sign of trouble. This happens to millions of women every year.
Despite feeling like it, you are not alone in this difficult time of your life. Millions of people deal with unplanned pregnancies and single parenthood every day – most of them manage to get through the experience without too many permanent scars. You can too. Trust yourself and know that you are capable of handling whatever comes your way.
