When you’re not expecting or hoping for a positive pregnancy test, it’s easy to spiral out of control and frantically scramble to figure out what to do. We’re here to tell you to take a deep breath; nothing good ever comes out of panic, especially when it comes to such a monumental and complex choice. There’s a process, and you should follow it to get all the facts and make the best pregnancy decision for YOU.
Lab-Grade Test
If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve gotten an at-home pregnancy test and received a positive result. However, store-bought tests are not always accurate. In order to receive 100% accurate results, your best bet is to visit a women’s health center where you can be formally tested by expertly trained, unbiased professionals. These urine or blood tests are more reliable than some over-the-counter brands.
Ultrasound
The second step isn’t to jump into making your pregnancy decision, but rather to further confirm the progress and status of your pregnancy. Statistics show there’s a one-in-three chance a woman will have a pregnancy which does not go full term due to miscarriage or other reasons, and 80% of those miscarriages happen within the first trimester. An ultrasound will confirm the viability of the pregnancy, how far along you are, placement of the pregnancy, and whether or not an “abortion vs. pregnancy” discussion is even necessary.
STD Testing
Nobody talks enough about how important STD/STI testing is when making a pregnancy decision. It’s crucial that you test for and treat any sexually transmitted infection before having any operation or procedure done on your body because the risks can change your life. If you have an abortion while infected with diseases such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, the probability of you contracting Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is increased by 25%. PID can affect your current well-being and even your future fertility if you choose to have children later on, so preventative measures are critical now.
Getting the Critical Information
What’s most important is your well-being and ensuring that you have enough information to be empowered to make the best pregnancy choice for you. Willowbrook Women’s Center offers a safe space and unbiased options so you can carefully consider all the possible outcomes, such as abortion, adoption, and parenting so you can confidently come to a decision.
Frustrating as it is, making pregnancy decisions isn’t as easy as yes or no. Every situation is different, and the best thing to do is ensure you receive the best care and information possible, so you feel empowered to make the choice that’s right for you. If you need thorough, unbiased information, schedule a free, confidential appointment to discuss all of your options!
