Life as a teen already comes with highs and lows that can be overwhelming. When you add an unexpected pregnancy to the mix, it can seem like the world is ending! It's normal and understandable to feel anxious, scared, or even hopeless when you're facing a teen pregnancy, but we want you to know that there is light at the end of the tunnel! In this post, we’ll walk you through how to begin to navigate this new and unfamiliar journey.

First things first: confirm the pregnancy.

If you think that you're pregnant, you need to get confirmation before making any decisions. At-home pregnancy tests can be a good start, but they are not always accurate and many teens don't have the money to buy them. That's why Ashe Pregnancy Care Center provides free and confidential pregnancy testing to our clients. We offer reliable, lab-quality tests that deliver quick and accurate results. If you're ready to get tested, contact us today.

If your test comes back positive, it's time to explore your options.

While abortion may initially seem to be the only viable choice for some women, there are other options that should be considered as well:

• Parenting: At first, the thought of being a teen parent probably seems crazy to you. You're likely thinking that parenthood would completely ruin your future plans and aspirations. While it's normal to feel that way, it's important to remember that parenthood does not mean that your own life is over. With the right support system, parenting can actually be an incredibly enriching and rewarding experience! We are here to provide you with the services, resources, and education to help you thrive as a teen parent if that's what you decide to do. Reach out to our team if you'd like to learn more.
• Adoption: If parenthood just isn't the route for you, adoption is another option to consider. While not always an easy decision to make, adoption gives your little one an opportunity to be raised by a loving family that can provide for them financially, emotionally, and physically. It also allows you to continue your own life pursuits, knowing your baby will be cared for.
• Abortion: When faced with an unexpected pregnancy, many women immediately think of abortion as the simplest way to deal with the situation. However, you should first be informed about the medical, mental, and emotional risks associated with an abortion. It is absolutely essential to be educated before making a decision, as abortion can have long-term physical and mental health effects on women. Our team is here to help you be informed and equipped to make the best decision for you. If you'd like to learn more about abortion or its risks, reach out to us!

Take a breath and think everything through.

When dealing with an unplanned pregnancy, there is no single "right" or "wrong" choice. Things can seem so overwhelming that you may feel like you have to make a decision immediately. However, rushing into a decision often leads to regret later on. Take time to thoroughly consider your options to make sure that whatever you decide, it's the best choice for you and your body.

Remember: this is your decision to make and to live with.

You may be facing a variety of conflicting advice or opinions. Maybe your partner is advocating for an abortion or perhaps your parents are pushing for adoption. Whatever decision you make, ensure that it is one that you are comfortable with - don't let anyone else pressure you into something you don't feel okay with.

If you need help, just ask!

We know that it can be hard to make these decisions. No matter what path you choose, you don't need to walk it alone!  Ashe Pregnancy Care Center is here to provide you with whatever support and resources you need. If you'd like to talk through your options, please reach out today! We are here to help you find peace and hope on your journey.