Unplanned Pregnancy << Before You Get Pregnant: Information for All Women << Healthy Pregnancy << womenshealth.gov

Unplanned Pregnancy

Unplanned pregnancy is common. About 1 in 2 pregnancies in America are unplanned. Ideally, a woman who is surprised by an unplanned pregnancy is in good preconception health and is ready and able to care for a new child. But this sometimes isn't the case. If you have an unplanned pregnancy, you might not know what to do next. You might worry that the father won't welcome the news. You might not be sure you can afford to care for a baby. You might worry if past choices you have made, such as drinking or drug use, will affect your unborn baby's health. You might be concerned that having a baby will keep you from finishing school or pursuing a career. If you are pregnant after being raped, you might feel ashamed, numb, or afraid. You might wonder what options you have. Here are some next steps to help you move forward:

Start taking care of yourself right away. Get 400 micrograms of folic acid daily. Stop alcohol, tobacco, and drug use.

Make a doctor's visit to confirm your pregnancy. Discuss your health and issues that could affect your pregnancy. Ask for help quitting smoking. Find out what you can do to take care of yourself and your unborn baby.

Ask your doctor to recommend a counselor who you can talk to about your situation.

Seek support in someone you trust and respect.

Additional Resources

Publications

Fact Sheet — Sexual Assault — This fact sheet explains sexual assault and gives information on what to do if you've been sexually assaulted, where you can go for help, how you can protect yourself, and how you can help someone who has been sexually assaulted.

http://www.womenshealth.gov/faq/sexual-assault.cfm

Organizations

= Indicates Federal Resources

Content last updated March 5, 2009.