Unplanned Pregnancy

The little plus sign on the stick has confirmed your suspicions and explain the sudden bouts of nausea and cravings the last few weeks; You're pregnant. For many women, this may be something to celebrate. In fact, you may have even thought about a moment like this happening in the future. However, in the event of this being an unplanned pregnancy the circumstances are probably much more complicated and come with the feelings to match. Finding out you're pregnant and unprepared to raise a child, let alone see a pregnancy to term, is scary. This fear may come with feelings of shame, guilt, confusion and helplessness. However, you're not the only person in the nation experiencing an unplanned pregnancy. Keep this in mind. In fact, according to a Guttmacher Institute report, about 7 percent of female teens experience pregnancy before they're 20.

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Even if you became pregnant out of a careless circumstance, the decision about what to do about the pregnancy must be met with the sincerest care. You have three options: abortion, adoption, single parenting. Whether you're 15 or 25, an unplanned pregnancy will upset your lifestyle. You may still be living with your parents or in college with big plans for the future. Even with the support or advice of a trusted adult, making the decision that's right for you is something you'll have to do for yourself. There are hundreds of professionals who can help you acknowledge the consequences of the available options.

Terminating a pregnancy is called abortion. These can be done medically, clinically or surgically. According to PlannedParenthood.com, abortions cost between $250 and $800, depending on how far along the pregnancy is.

Deciding to see the pregnancy to term can mean two things for a woman and the baby's future. It may mean that she begins planning for a lifestyle of raising the child herself, either as a single parent or with the child's biological father. Alternately, she may decide to place the child with an adoptive family. If this is the case, she can pursue an independent or agency adoption. She can determine the kind of involvement she'll want in the placement decision. Placing a child with an adoptive family also allows for a woman to receive support during her pregnancy for counseling and maternity fees.

The most important part about handling this situation is being true to yourself and honest with what you're capable and willing to handle.