How to Handle an Unplanned Pregnancy: A Guide for Teenage Girls

If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, please know that you’re not alone—support and understanding are here for you. An unplanned pregnancy often brings with it a whirlwind of emotions—panic, disbelief, fear, anger, excitement, embarrassment, and even resentment. Coping with an unplanned pregnancy involves seeking help, reaching out to supportive individuals, consulting an expert about your options, and accessing pregnancy counselling in Victoria, BC. Like any significant life decision, it’s essential to process your emotions, understand your feelings, and decide what’s best for you. At Birthright Victoria, we’ve compiled a list of critical steps to handle an unplanned pregnancy.

Take Charge of Your Emotions

The first step is to acknowledge and embrace your emotions, allowing yourself to believe that everything will eventually be okay. Many teenage girls find unexpected pregnancy overwhelming, especially when it wasn’t part of their plan. It might take a few days to accept the situation fully, and that’s okay. Give yourself the time you need to process what you’re going through. Let yourself experience these emotions without attempting to suppress or rush through them. Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be helpful. After a few days, when the intensity has eased, revisit your writing to see how your perspective may have shifted.

Clear Your Doubts

Even young girls with planned pregnancies can experience doubts about their decisions. The unknown can feel daunting. When those feelings of doubt and fear take over, it’s essential to seek help from a support centre specializing in unplanned pregnancies. They can offer reassurance during such a confusing time.

Consider Different Options

It’s natural to feel overwhelmed initially, but try to move beyond the initial crisis. Seek out support from unplanned pregnancy help centres, like Birthright Victoria, that specialize in offering guidance for teenage girls facing unplanned pregnancies. Imagine your future under different circumstances—spending time with your baby, adjusting to life with your child, or what life might look like if you consider other options, like adoption. Picturing each scenario can help clarify your feelings and guide your decision-making process. Remember, making these decisions can be difficult, but with proper guidance, you’ll be better equipped to make the right choice.

Get Non-Judgmental Help

You may experience mixed and conflicting feelings about your unexpected pregnancy during this time. It’s crucial to seek support from compassionate individuals who won’t judge you. Birthright Victoria offers free and confidential support if you’re unsure where to turn. Our services include:
• Free pregnancy testing
• A safe, welcoming environment to express your feelings
• Information on all your pregnancy options
• Professional guidance on pregnancy symptoms and managing discomfort
• Free maternity and baby clothing
• Ongoing support through visits and phone calls
• 24/7 helpline for additional assistance

Permit Yourself to be Surprised

Many young girls experiencing an unplanned pregnancy report feeling a surprising, quiet voice saying, “I want this.” Allow yourself to listen to that voice. Even if it wasn’t in your original plan, it’s okay for plans to change if that feels right to you. At Birthright, we’re here to support you every step of the way as you navigate your options and emotions. If you or someone you care about is going through an unexpected pregnancy and needs support, contact our pregnancy crisis centre in Victoria, BC. You don’t have to go through this alone.

How Birthright Victoria Can Support You

Birthright Victoria provides unconditional support to young girls throughout pregnancy and beyond. If you’re a teenager facing an unplanned pregnancy, here’s how they can help:

• Emotional Support: Coping with an unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming. Birthright Victoria offers a compassionate, non-judgmental space where young girls can express their fears and anxieties while receiving guidance and reassurance.
• Helpful Information: From advice on sharing your pregnancy news with loved ones to tips on finding maternity care and managing morning sickness, Birthright Victoria provides valuable information to help you navigate your journey. They also connect young girls with helpful teen resources.
• Confidential Services: Privacy is a priority. Birthright Victoria ensures that young girls can access support without fear of judgment or exposure, offering a safe and confidential space to discuss concerns.
• Empowerment Through Support: Birthright Victoria helps young girls regain confidence and take control of their futures. They connect them with essential resources and support to make informed choices about their pregnancy and beyond.

If you’re searching for options for unplanned pregnancy in Victoria, BC, know that you don’t have to face this journey alone. Birthright Victoria is a crisis pregnancy centre that provides free counselling, emotional support, and practical assistance. Whether you need guidance, a listening ear, or access to resources, Birthright Victoria is here to help every step of the way.