Going through an unplanned pregnancy can be a vulnerable and scary time. During this time, your friend will likely need a compassionate, non-judgmental listening ear as she processes her emotions and explores her options.
At Affirm Women’s Health, we offer services for women like your friend who are facing unplanned pregnancies, such as consultations on their options.
Keep reading for more practical ways to support your friend during this challenging time.
Check on Your Friend
If your friend has felt comfortable sharing the news with you, you are in a great place to support here. Wait a few days after sharing the news, and text her to see how she’s feeling. Ask if she needs anything.
While she may not be open to visitors, you can show support by dropping off a care package on her front porch or sending a food delivery gift card.
Be There for Her
If your friend is unsure what next steps to take during her pregnancy, offer to help her explore her options.
At the Affirm Women’s Health, we offer no-cost services, including pregnancy testing and ultrasounds.
An ultrasound is essential in early pregnancy because it provides information such as the gestational age, which affects her eligibility for specific options.
The ultrasound will also reveal the pregnancy’s location. Normal pregnancies grow in the uterus, so if the embryo is located outside of the uterus, this is an ectopic pregnancy and requires immediate medical attention.
This vital screening also reveals the pregnancy’s viability. Up to 26% of pregnancies end
in miscarriage, so an ultrasound will inform your friend whether or not their pregnancy is still developing.
At the Affirm Women’s Health, we also offer options consultations where your friend can learn about her options and local resources. If she doesn’t know what pregnancy outcome she wants (parenting, etc.), this can help her get her questions answered.
Offer to accompany her to one of these appointments so she doesn’t feel alone. Contact us today!