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What to do if you think you're Pregnant |
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(or: OHHOLYSHITAMIPREGGERS???)
First and foremost: Breathe. It's going to be okay, I promise you. No matter if it turns out that you really are pregnant or that it was a false alarm, I promise we'll be able to find a solution for you. It's going to be okay. Don't Panic.
Disclaimer: The following article was not written by a medical health professional, nor is it intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. There is absolutely no substitute for seeing a doctor, nurse or other well-trained professional. When in doubt, go to the doctor. No insurance? We'll talk about that later in the article.
Part One: Figuring Out if You're Pregnant or Not
Believe it or not, asking the internet is not as reliable as taking a home pregnancy test. Yes, I know they're kinda pricey, but resist the urge to buy the cheapo store brand here. I suggest using the E.P.T. (Also known as "Error Proof Test" wink Home Pregnancy Test. This test is accurate enough that my local Planned Parenthood uses it for its first round of pregnancy tests. It's very easy to use - you either urinate on the absorbent tip for 5 seconds or dip it in a container of your urine for 20 seconds. Be sure to read the instructions and follow them to the letter.
Keep in mind that a negative may not necessarily mean you're not pregnant - you may be testing too soon for the horomones it tests for to build up in your system. If you are testing before your regular period schedule, it is suggested you use your first urination of the morning to test. If you got a negative on your test, but still have not started your period two weeks later, it is suggested that you either test again or, ideally, see a doctor.
Seeing a Doctor
Scared of peeing on a stick? Haven't started your period still? Did you get a positive result on the pregnancy test? It's time to see a doctor or another medical professional, such as a registered nurse practitioner. This is easy if you have insurance. It's not so easy if you don't have insurance, or if you're scared your parents will find out.
Parent Fear: One of the main reasons many young women don't bother seeing a doctor is because they are afraid their parents will find out. If you have insurance through your family, ask to see the doctor. If they ask, tell them you feel it's been too long since your last checkup. Ask them politely to wait in the waiting room while you are seen. If they insist on knowing why, let them know that you are embarassed about your body and would like some privacy. Worried about the doctor telling your parents? Many states have laws expressly forbidding doctors from discussing confidential client information without their permission unless it's a life-threatening situation. Be sure to check your local laws to be sure.
Lack of Insurance: No insurance? Free clinics are available in many places to women who are or believe they may be pregnant. Here are some resources to help you find a clinic in your area: National Free Clinic Directory - A listing of free clinics Planned Parenthood Clinic Finder - Find a Planned Parenthood location near you. Department of Health and Human Services Clinic Finder - These clinics will see you even if you do not have insurance but they may not all be free - call and check with the clinic before going!
I'm pregnant. Now what?
Well, there are a couple of different options that you have. This is a choice that in the end, only you can make. However, you don't have to be alone in making your decision. Discuss the matter with your sexual partner, your parents (if you're comfortable doing so) and of course your doctor. Here in the United States, you still have a choice over what you can do. Remember that when you vote, and protect your choice. Alright, so anyway, what can you do?
Abortion This is a very tough decision for women to make. There is quite a bit of debate over the moral aspects of abortion, but we're not here to argue that. Abortion terminates a pregnancy through either chemical or surgical means. Some women who undergo this procedure find themselves emotionally damaged after the fact. Unfortunately, depending on your state's laws and your age, there may be some legal hurdles you have to jump in order to have an abortion performed. A listing of state laws can be found here, but it's best to ask a doctor or even a lawyer if you can swing it.
Carry the Child to term, then Adoption In this situation, you would have the baby but give it up for adoption. Some states have anonymous drop-off programs at hospitals, fire stations and the like. There are two major downsides to this solution: Guilt over not keeping the child for yourself, and all that after having to undergo the pregnancy and birth experience. Some women find that once they have the child, they cannot give it up.
Carry the Child to term, then Keep it This may or may not be difficult for you, given your personal situation. Remember that a baby is a lifetime of work, which you may not be ready for. Not much else to say here, but parenting is hard work.
sakanaya · Tue Jul 17, 2007 @ 07:35pm · 2 Comments |
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