Pregnant and Scared?
How to Take Care of Yourself and Learn Your Options
Finding out you’re pregnant when you’re not ready can feel overwhelming. Your mind might be racing with questions like “What do I do now?” or “How will I handle this?” The most important thing to remember is that taking care of yourself during pregnancy comes first – no matter what you decide.
You’re not alone in feeling scared. Many women face unplanned pregnancy, and there are people who want to help you through this time.
Taking Care of Your Body
Even if you’re unsure about your future plans, your health matters right now. Here are simple ways to take care of yourself during pregnancy:
Get prenatal care
At Heart to Heart Adoptions, we know how to help you find medical care. You and your baby deserve to have competent compassionate care from a provider who is willing to accept that you haven’t necessarily decided what your parenting plan is yet.
Eat healthy when possible.
You don’t need expensive foods to eat well. The WIC program provides free healthy food for pregnant women. Simple choices like bananas, eggs, and milk can make a big difference. If morning sickness makes eating hard, try crackers or toast.
Get enough sleep
Pregnancy makes you tired, and stress makes it worse. Try to rest when you can, even if it’s just a 20-minute nap.
Taking Care of Your Feelings
Pregnancy emotions are intense, especially when you’re scared about the future. This is completely normal.
Talk to someone you trust.
This might be a family member, friend, or counselor. Many areas have free counseling services for pregnant women. Sometimes just saying your worries out loud helps.
Set boundaries with people.
Not everyone needs to know your business or give you advice. It’s okay to say “I’m still figuring things out” and change the subject.
Try simple stress relief.
When you feel overwhelmed, try taking five deep breaths or going for a short walk. These small actions can help calm your mind.
Understanding Your Options
Taking care of yourself during pregnancy includes learning about all your choices. You have three main options:
Parenting:
If you choose to parent, there are resources to help. Programs like SNAP provide food assistance, and Medicaid covers healthcare. Many communities have programs for young or single mothers, including help with childcare and education.
Adoption:
With adoption, you choose a family to raise your baby. You can pick the family yourself and decide how much contact you want after the baby is born. Many birth mothers stay in touch through letters, photos, or visits. Adoption agencies provide support throughout your pregnancy and help with expenses like doctor visits.
You have time to decide.
You don’t have to choose right away. It’s normal to feel unsure or change your mind as you learn more about each option. Give yourself time and space to see what’s right for you.
Ask questions
Whether you’re talking to adoption professionals, doctors, or counselors, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Good professionals will answer honestly and never pressure you.
Know your rights.
You always have the right to change your mind (until legal papers are signed), ask for a second opinion, and take time to think.
Moving Forward
Taking care of yourself during pregnancy is not selfish – it’s necessary. Whether you’re dealing with morning sickness, worried about money, or trying to decide about your future, remember that you deserve support and care.
You have the strength to get through this, even when it doesn’t feel that way. There are people and resources available to help you every step of the way.
