What Now? Your Next Steps After a Positive Pregnancy Test

Whether it was a planned pregnancy or a total surprise, seeing those two lines appear on a pregnancy test can trigger a mix of emotions. Excitement, fear, shock, or even disbelief – they're all perfectly normal reactions. No matter what you're feeling, take a deep breath. You're not alone.

Millions of women around the world face the same situation every year. It's a big moment, a turning point, and it's okay if you don't have all the answers right now. At A Place for Women in Waipio, we understand this mix of emotions and are here to help you take the next steps with clarity and confidence.

Step 1: Take a Moment (or Several!)

Before diving into decision-making mode, allow yourself to just feel. Let the news sink in. Talk to a close friend, your partner, a family member – anyone you trust to listen without judgment. Or, if you'd prefer to talk to someone trained and experienced in helping women in situations like yours, A Place for Women in Waipio is a safe space where you can process your thoughts and feelings confidentially.

Step 2: Verify Your Pregnancy

While home pregnancy tests can be accurate, it's always best to confirm your results with a medical-grade pregnancy test. We offer these tests free of charge. You can also schedule a limited ultrasound to confirm your pregnancy's viability and determine how far along you are. This information is crucial for making informed choices about your next steps.

Step 3: Understand Your Options

When faced with an unplanned pregnancy, you have three primary options:

• Parenting: This is about raising your child and embracing the joys and challenges of motherhood. It's a big commitment but also one filled with incredible love and growth.

• Adoption: This is a loving choice where you give your child the opportunity to be raised by another family. You can be as involved in the process as you want, from selecting the adoptive parents to determining the level of contact you maintain after birth.

• Abortion: This is a medical procedure that ends a pregnancy. It's crucial to understand the types of abortion, potential risks, and emotional impact before making this decision. A Place for Women in Waipio provides accurate information on abortion, but we do not perform or refer for abortions.

Step 4: Gather Information and Support

No matter which path you're leaning towards, gathering reliable information is key. A Place for Women in Waipio can provide you with:

• Options Consultation: Non-judgmental support and information to help you understand each of your choices.

• Pregnancy Information: Accurate medical information about fetal development, prenatal care, and your own health during pregnancy.

• Referrals: We can connect you with local resources such as obstetricians, adoption agencies, therapists, and other organizations that specialize in supporting women through pregnancy and early motherhood.

Step 5: Take Care of Yourself

Prioritize your well-being:

• Eat healthy foods and stay hydrated: Nourishing your body supports a healthy pregnancy.

• Rest: Listen to your body's need for rest and relaxation.

• Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques, like deep breathing or light exercise.

• Seek emotional support: Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or counselor.

Wrapping Up

Finding out you're pregnant can be a life-changing experience. But remember, you are not alone. A Place for Women in Waipio is here for you, offering compassionate support, medically accurate information, and resources to help you make empowered decisions about your pregnancy.

We understand that this journey can be overwhelming, but you have the strength to navigate it. Whether you're in Ewa Beach, Waipio, or Honolulu, our caring staff is ready to listen, answer your questions, and walk beside you every step of the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today!