A positive pregnancy test can rock your world. If you are facing an unexpected pregnancy, it’s normal to feel anxious, and it’s normal to have questions.
Here are four key things to remember in that moment of uncertainty
4 Things to Remember After a Positive Pregnancy Test
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Take a Moment to Pause
According to Psychology Today, anxiety disables neurons in your prefrontal cortex—the area of your brain responsible for planning, weighing consequences, and making decisions. For most women, an unplanned pregnancy brings an initial wave of anxiety. Give yourself time to breathe, to think, and to talk with people who can help you. No decision should be made because of pressure. That pressure may be self-induced or it may come from other people who try to influence your decision based on what they think is best. In those immediate moments, you may not be ready or able to weigh the decision for yourself yet.
That’s OK: You don’t have to know what to do or even what to feel right away. It takes time to calm the initial shock, explore all your options, and make sound judgments.
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Confirm Your Pregnancy
Although home pregnancy tests are fairly accurate in measuring hCG hormone, recent studies have shown that approximately 1 in 4 of all pregnancies confirmed after implantation end in natural miscarriage. Before proceeding with any next step, it’s important to obtain as much information about your pregnancy as possible. An obstetrical ultrasound can most accurately date and determine the placement of your pregnancy, which can factor into what options are available for you. At Bella Women’s Center, we provide free limited ultrasound testing to determine more information about your pregnancy and tell you how far along you are. Our licensed medical staff is here to give you the best possible medical and confidential care.
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Remember That You Have Options
Women facing an unplanned pregnancy often feel trapped or powerless. It’s crucial to realize that you have choices! At Bella, one of the most important services we provide is our Options Consultation. During an Options Consultation, you are able to sit down with a trained advocate one-on-one and discuss, in detail, the options available to you.
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Know That You Are Not Alone
You might feel as if you can’t tell your family, your partner, or your friends about your pregnancy. You might feel isolated, and believe that you have no place to go. At Bella Women’s Center, we’ve made it our mission to be there for you at this time; before, during, and after your decision about your unplanned pregnancy. Everyone needs a positive support system, and that is exactly what Bella’s trained advocates provide.
If you are facing an unexpected pregnancy, please reach out to our team to learn more about our pregnancy services and your options. We are here to help.