How to make a decision… step by step

You think you are pregnant and you are positive that you (and pretty sure the father of the baby) don’t want to be.  

If you are pregnant, it’ll be devastating. Maybe you have plans to go to school, or your finances are tight, maybe your relationship is unstable… it could be all the above. It may also be none of the above and you’re just not ready to have a baby. 

It’s easy to react and rush into a decision. Human nature hates disorder and pain. And pain seeks to be healed. But, it’s healthier to respond to our situation rather than our emotions. When we react to our situation and rush to a solution, we tend to make poor decisions.   

What’s the difference between reacting and responding?  

• Reaction is immediate; Response is thought out. 
• Reaction is driven by feelings; Response is driven by facts 
• Reaction is defensive; Response is proactive 
• Reaction does not take into consideration long-term effects; Response considers well-being of you and those around you. 

So, how do you make a good decision? 

1. Figure out if you are actually pregnant! Pregnancy tests are not a diagnosis of pregnancy.  You need a sonogram to both ensure the pregnancy is viable and to know how far along you are in your pregnancy. Prestonwood Pregnancy Center offers FREE lab–grade, urine pregnancy tests and sonograms. Book an appointment here. 
2. Slow down. You have time to make a decision. Listen to facts as your feelings often can misguide you. Feelings may feel true but unless they are backed by facts, they are not truth. Get good, unbiased guidance. Do your research. Make a list of pros and cons. 
3. Do you understand your options and the associated benefits and risks? Good guidance provided by educated individuals can help you navigate the decision-making process. You need to understand all the risks and benefits of each of your options: parenting, abortion, and adoption.    
4. Before an abortion, have you done research on the doctor, clinic, and the associated risks to the procedure to make a healthy and informed decision? 
5. Are you aware of the medical and social assistance available to you if you choose to parent? 
6. Do you know what to do if you change your mind at any point of the pregnancy? Making the best choice is a process and having someone that can listen, ask good questions, and formulate a plan should you want to change course is essential. 
7. Do you have a plan to tell those around you that you are pregnant…? You need a support system regardless of your decision. 

Prestonwood Pregnancy Center is a safe and confidential medical clinic that offers free resource to help you navigate your pregnancy and the decisions that lay ahead.  

Call us today or book an appointment now.