How Do I Support My Friend Experiencing an Unexpected Pregnancy?

You are already supporting your friend just by asking this question. Your friend is most likely experiencing a whirlwind of emotions: shock, fear, excitement, anger, and maybe even guilt.

She needs the support of caring friends like you. We've got some suggestions for ways you can help her. If either of you needs to speak with someone for help, please don't hesitate to contact us at Choices Options for Women. We're just a click away.

Has She Confirmed Her Pregnancy?

A positive pregnancy test and a late period may not be enough information to confirm she's actually pregnant. Experts estimate that as many as 26% of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage.

Depending on when she took her pregnancy test, she could have gotten a positive result but no longer be pregnant because it takes time for her body to return to pre-pregnancy hormone levels.

What is the best way to verify her pregnancy? A limited obstetrical ultrasound determines if she is actually pregnant by detecting a fetal heartbeat. At Choices Options for Women, we offer free and confidential ultrasounds.

Encourage your friend to come to us for free pregnancy testing. If her test is positive and she is 7 to 8 weeks pregnant, our registered diagnostic medical sonographer can perform an ultrasound.

She'll learn exactly how far along she is in her pregnancy, whether it's developing, and its location to rule out any health concerns. In addition, we can provide her with a one-on-one consultation to discuss her options.

How Else Can I Support Her?

Nutrition

Early symptoms of pregnancy include feeling nauseous. Help her get the nutrition she needs. Nourish recommends she eat bland foods such as rice, oatmeal, and toast. They also recommend dairy-free protein shakes, baked chicken, and peppermint tea.

Physical Help

Another early pregnancy symptom is fatigue. Offer to help her with daily chores such as laundry, house cleaning, or grocery shopping. Small projects can feel unmanageable when pregnant; by assisting her, you'll make life so much easier.

Emotional Encouragement

Become an active listener. Active listening means paying close attention to what your friend is saying. Repeat her words back to her to make sure you understand what she said.

Try asking relevant questions without judgment and be attuned to the feelings behind her words. Offer just to spend time together. An unexpected pregnancy can make her feel isolated and alone. Suggest going to a movie, for a walk, or taking up a hobby together.

Let your friend know you are there to support her no matter what. Resist commenting on or judging her situation. If you are a close friend, remain as neutral as possible.

Choices Options for Women Can Help

We have many resources that can assist your friend. From referrals for social services to telecare appointments, we can help in many ways. We even offer educational opportunities and material support if she's considering parenting.

You or your friend can call us at 732-516-0911 for more information. We even have a 24/7 hotline to assist her. We want to help you both. What can we do for you today?