By: Linda Buice, volunteer of the STPRC

Pregnancy is a life-changing moment for a woman and those close to her regardless of age. If you or someone you know has a pregnancy that is unwanted, unexpected, or has a feeling of being overwhelmed by pregnancy and abortion is being considered, please know that you are not alone. We are here to help you become informed about a decision that could impact your life far beyond the actual procedure. This series will address some issues that are important to consider before you make a life altering decision.

 Unplanned pregnancies can be overwhelming for a variety of reasons. The situation can affect family members and friends, too. You or someone you know may be considering abortion because:

•   a fear of social stigma
  

•  pressure from family members, friends, or partners
  

•   inability to financially support a child
  

•   no partner
  

•   a baby will interfere with school or career
  

•   a feeling of not being ready to have a child
  

•   are not sure of options
  

•   age
  

These are just some examples of possible scenarios or pressures.

Before you make a choice, please consider becoming educated about the risks of abortion procedures, long-term possible effects for the woman and those close to her, other choices and support that is available.

The Southern Tier Pregnancy Resource Center has a variety of resources available as well as qualified counselors to help you become better informed. The internet is full of resources that may or may not be helpful. The information can be confusing. We are here to help you and to give you the support you may need.

By: Nicole Colwell, STPRC volunteer

According to an article on the WomensHealth.gov website, about half of all pregnancies are unplanned. Perhaps you have recently found out that you are pregnant. It’s possible that it came as quite a shock to you, and you’re now unsure of what to do, or how to react.

Here at the Southern Tier PRC in , we help women and families who are encountering unplanned pregnancies. Here are a few of the common reactions we see in the women who visit the Center.

Concern that the baby’s father will not be happy about the news - This is one of the most common fears that women have when they find out when encountering an unplanned pregnancy. Many of them worry that their partner is going to want them to have an abortion. Some of them worry that their partner will leave them.

Worry that you can’t afford a baby - There’s no doubt that having a baby is expensive. Not only is prenatal care costly, but once the baby is born, paying for clothes, formula and other baby essentials can be pretty taxing on your income.

Unsure of your ability to handle being pregnant for nine months - If your pregnancy is unplanned, you might be concerned about feeling depressed or anxious during the next nine months. You may have other children to care for, or other responsibilities that will make being pregnant very difficult for you.

Fear for your future plans - Whether you’re a student in high school who has had a positive pregnancy test, or you thought your child-bearing days were over, finding out that you’re pregnant can make you very fearful about your future. It’s disheartening to think that you will have to put your plans on hold, or perhaps have to give up your goals altogether.

If any of these sound familiar to you, we want you to know that we understand, and we’re here to help you. We hope that these truths will offer you some encouragement:

• Most new fathers are very excited to hear that their partners are pregnant, even if the baby was a surprise.
  
• With all of the agencies in our community that are willing and able to offer help to you, it’s not as costly as you might think to have a new baby. 
  
• Talking with a peer counselor about your pregnancy is a great way to alleviate some of your deepest fears about how you will handle the next nine months. 
  
• Many new moms continue with their education, and flourish in the workplace. Being pregnant does not mean that you have to put your future plans on hold forever. 
  

Here at the Southern Tier PRC, we are dedicated to helping women and men just like you. Our services include offering free pregnancy tests, free options counseling, free ultrasounds, and much more. We are excited to be able to offer you with materials assistance as well as referrals to many community agencies who will rally around you during this important time in your life.

If you believe you might be pregnant, it can feel as though you’re facing a crisis. You may feel the need to make a quick decision, but that quick decision will affect you for the rest of your life. Contrary to popular belief, it’s important for you to get the education you need about your options before making any decisions regarding your health, or the health of your unborn baby.

If you would like to make an appointment with the Southern Tier PRC, we would love to talk with you. Our peer counselors will help you navigate this difficult time, and all of our services are always free. To make your appointment, please contact us today.