Navigating an Unexpected Pregnancy During the Holidays: How to Cope with Stress
Holiday gatherings, travel, and traditions can make life feel busy enough on their own. Adding an unexpected pregnancy to the season may leave you feeling stretched, uncertain, or distracted from everything happening around you.
If you’re looking for space to breathe and understand your next steps, First Care offers free services, including pregnancy tests, limited ultrasounds, and confidential guidance to help you figure out your next steps and manage stress.
Below are a few ways to care for yourself during this unique season.
Recognize What You’re Feeling
Holidays can amplify emotions, both positive and challenging. Feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or even disconnected is not uncommon. Giving yourself permission to acknowledge those feelings can help reduce some of the internal pressure. You don’t have to pretend everything is fine.
Create Space for Yourself
Busy schedules make it difficult to slow down, but even brief moments of quiet can bring peace. Consider:
- Taking a short walk
- Pausing before events to breathe and collect your thoughts
- Limiting commitments if your energy feels depleted
It’s okay to step back from traditions or gatherings that feel emotionally or physically draining this year.
Set Boundaries Around Conversations
Holiday gatherings can bring well-meaning but intrusive questions. You are not obligated to share your pregnancy news before you feel ready. A simple phrase such as, “I’m focusing on a few personal things right now, but I appreciate you asking,” can redirect a conversation without revealing details.
Stay Connected to Practical Support
Stress often increases when you feel like you’re facing everything alone. Reliable information can help bring a sense of stability.
An early ultrasound can give you insights such as gestational age, the presence of a heartbeat, and whether the pregnancy is intrauterine or ectopic, to help you make medical decisions and move forward.
If you’re unsure about the next steps, speaking with someone trained at First Care to provide accurate information can make a meaningful difference.
You’re Not Alone This Season
You don’t have to navigate this holiday season on your own. First Care provides a supportive environment where you can explore your options and receive trustworthy medical services.
Reach out to schedule a free appointment whenever you’re ready.
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What Can I Do if My Partner Wants an Abortion, but I Want to Keep the Baby
An unexpected pregnancy is stressful. You’re dealing not only with the discovery, but also with the many physical and emotional changes in your body. The last thing you need is pressure from your partner to make one decision over another.
The good news is that you are the only one who gets to choose what to do. No one can legally force you to make a particular choice.
If you’re finding yourself needing someone to talk to about your pregnancy, your partner, and the pressure you’re feeling, we’re available. We also have many services and resources to support you throughout your pregnancy.
Schedule an appointment today.
How Do I Recognize If I’m Being Pressured?
Are you feeling like your partner isn’t listening to you? Your partner can pressure you in many different ways. Are you experiencing any of the following?
- He wants you to make a quick decision and insists you make an appointment at an abortion clinic immediately.
- He blames you for the pregnancy and how it will inconvenience him.
- He refuses to listen to any other options.
- He views your opinions as ignorant or ridiculous.
- He threatens to leave you if you don’t make the choice he wants you to make.
A supportive, caring partner discusses the situation thoroughly with you. They listen to your concerns, hopes, and desires.
If you feel threatened in any way, we encourage you to contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-SAFE (7233). It’s free, confidential, and available 24/7. They provide a lot of helpful information, including how to have a safe and healthy relationship.
What Services Do You Offer to Help Me?
You can receive a free lab-quality pregnancy test at First Care, whether you walk in or schedule an appointment at any one of our locations. Even if you’ve taken an at-home pregnancy test, it’s vital to retest to ensure the same results.
You’ll want to have a free and confidential ultrasound exam. An ultrasound determines how far along you are, makes sure the pregnancy is located in the uterus, and determines if the pregnancy is progressing as expected.
We provide free and confidential ultrasounds following a positive pregnancy test.
Once we’ve confirmed your pregnancy, we can discuss all of your options. We’ll provide you with community resources and referrals for medical insurance, prenatal care, financial support, and other helpful resources.
You can also sign up for prenatal and childbirth classes and receive baby essentials, including diapers, wipes, baby clothing, and necessary equipment. We’re here to support you in any way possible.
Schedule an Appointment Right Away
Currently, we have five locations to serve you. Visit the location nearest you or call or text us at (651) 424-0303 for more information. Remember, no one has the right to tell you what to do with your pregnancy. This is your decision and yours alone.
Please let us know how we can help you. Let us provide the care you need first. Come to First Care because you, your pregnancy, and your future matter to us.
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Am I Eligible for the Abortion Pill?
To know whether you’re eligible for the abortion pill regimen, you need more information about your pregnancy, as there are other limitations to be aware of
A limited obstetrical ultrasound provides the information that you need prior to taking the abortion pills. You should also discuss your medical history, including STIs, as well as your physical and emotional health, with a licensed healthcare provider.
Schedule an ultrasound appointment at a First Care location nearest you. To receive a free ultrasound at First Care, you must have proof of a medical-grade positive pregnancy test. First Care offers medical-grade pregnancy tests at no cost to you, or you can present verification of a positive test from a third-party clinic.
What Is the Abortion Pill Method?
The abortion pill method is also known as a medication, medical, or chemical abortion. It’s a two-stage process using two powerful abortion drugs.
The first drug, mifepristone, blocks the hormone progesterone from reaching the uterus. Progesterone is essential for pregnancy development. Without progesterone, the uterine lining thins in an effort to end the pregnancy.
Misoprostol, the second drug, causes bleeding and contractions to expel the pregnancy from the uterus. Some women have experienced excessive bleeding and severe pain after taking this drug.
What Are the Limitations?
The Cleveland Clinic states that a medical abortion (the abortion pill method) is not a safe option for the following reasons:
You Are Too Far Along in Your Pregnancy
The FDA approves the use of mifepristone through 10 weeks of pregnancy only. The further along you are, the less effective the drugs are.
You Are Allergic to the Drugs Used
Some individuals may experience adverse reactions to the drugs, such as hives, rashes, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.
You Have an Ectopic Pregnancy
Most pregnancies implant and grow in the uterus. If a pregnancy implants outside the uterus, it is called ectopic. An ectopic pregnancy can be extremely dangerous. The abortion pill method doesn’t end an ectopic pregnancy, so you would need to see your healthcare provider immediately.
You Use Long-Term Corticosteroids
Healthcare providers prescribe corticosteroids for asthma, arthritis, and eczema, among other health issues.
You Have an Intrauterine Device (IUD) in Place
Although an IUD is a form of contraception, it is still possible to get pregnant. You would need to have it removed before having an abortion to avoid causing damage to your uterus.
You Have a Blood Clotting Disorder
Symptoms include swelling and pain in your leg, chest pain, a heart attack, or a stroke.
You Don’t Have Access to Emergency Care
There are physical risks with the abortion pill that can be life-threatening.
What Other Issues Should I Consider?
In addition to learning how far along you are, an ultrasound determines if your pregnancy is ectopic and whether or not it’s a viable pregnancy. Experts estimate that 26% of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage, and most occur in the first 20 weeks.
You can get a positive pregnancy test days or weeks after a miscarriage. An ultrasound detects if your pregnancy is developing or if you’ve miscarried.
You should also discuss your mental health with your healthcare provider. Studies show that an abortion can profoundly affect some women’s emotional health.
It is recommended to have STI testing prior to an abortion. If you have an STI that is untreated and proceed with an abortion, reproductive damage can occur.
Get the Information You Need First
Contact the First Care location nearest you. We provide free pregnancy testing and STI testing. With a positive pregnancy test, we can also provide a free, limited obstetric ultrasound by a licensed healthcare professional. Learn more about abortion and your other options.
You can walk in or set up an appointment. All of our services are free and confidential. How can we help you today?
First Care does not perform or refer for abortion.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.
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When Am I Most Likely to Get Pregnant?
First Care is here for you if you have questions about pregnancy, fertility, or health. We provide confidential, free services, including lab-quality pregnancy testing and comprehensive information that will offer the reassurance you need.
Schedule your appointment today to get the clarity you’re searching for, and keep reading to learn why timing is crucial to getting pregnant.
Understanding Ovulation and Fertility
You are most likely to be pregnant when sperm is present in the fallopian tubes at the same time that ovulation occurs. Ovulation is when an ovary releases an egg, which can survive for about 12–24 hours.
Sperm, however, can live in the reproductive tract for 3–5 days. This means your “fertile window” spans several days: about 3–4 days before ovulation through one day after. Having sexual intercourse during this window increases the chances of pregnancy.
How to Recognize Ovulation
For many women, it isn’t easy to know when ovulation is happening. Learning your body’s natural patterns can help you understand your reproductive health more clearly. Some ways to detect ovulation include:
- Physical changes: Clear, stretchy vaginal discharge (similar to raw egg whites) and a rise in basal body temperature can be indicators of ovulation.
- Period tracker apps: If your cycle is regular, ovulation often occurs around day 14 of a 28-day cycle. If your cycle length varies, a tracker app can help identify patterns.
- Home ovulation kits: These detect the hormonal changes that happen right before ovulation.
Why Understanding Fertility Matters
Whether you’re trying to become pregnant or seeking to avoid pregnancy, understanding your cycle can help you make informed choices about your health and future. For those with irregular cycles, ovulation can be harder to pinpoint, making tools like apps, kits, or consultations especially helpful.
At First Care, we’re here to provide clarity and answer your questions in a supportive and confidential environment.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
We’re ready to walk with you. Our free and confidential services help you confidently take your next step.
Schedule your free appointment at First Care today—your health, questions, and future matter. Same-day appointments are also available for your convenience.
FAQ: Fertility and Pregnancy Questions
Can I get pregnant during my period?
It’s not the most likely time, but it is still possible, especially if you ovulate earlier than expected and sperm survive in your reproductive tract.
What if my cycle is irregular?
Pregnancy is still possible, but it may be harder to predict fertile days. If you’re unsure, tracking your cycle and contacting a trusted healthcare provider for support is a good idea.
When should I take a pregnancy test?
For the most accurate results, wait until at least one to two days after a missed period. First Care offers free, lab-quality pregnancy tests to give you reliable answers.
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My Period is Late. What Do I Do?
A late period can bring up a lot of questions. Could you be pregnant? Is stress affecting your cycle? Is something else going on with your health?
No matter what’s running through your mind, a clear next step will help you begin answering questions: Taking a pregnancy test. At First Care, we offer lab-quality pregnancy testing and verification services so you can find out with certainty.
Could It Be Pregnancy?
Missing a period is one of the first signs of pregnancy, but it doesn’t always mean you’re pregnant. Hormonal changes, stress, diet, and other factors can also impact your cycle.
That said, if you’ve had sex and your period is late, it’s a good idea to take a pregnancy test anytime after a missed period.
In addition to a missed period, here are a few other early pregnancy symptoms you could experience:
- Sore or swollen breasts
- Nausea or vomiting
- Increased tiredness
- Frequent urination
- Bloating or constipation
- Mild cramping
- Mood swings
- Heightened sensitivity to smells or tastes
Some feel noticeable symptoms immediately, while others may not notice anything. Every woman experiences pregnancy differently.
Only a pregnancy test followed by an ultrasound can give you answers and a clear picture.
How First Care Can Help
Your first step is a pregnancy test. At First Care, we offer free, lab-quality pregnancy testing that’s accurate and confidential. If your test is positive, we may also provide a limited ultrasound at no cost to confirm your pregnancy and give you important information about how far along you are, revealing your options and protecting your health.
We know how stressful this moment can feel, but you don’t have to walk through it alone. First Care is here to support you at no cost.
Schedule your free appointment today. We’re here for you.
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How Can I Take Care of Myself During Pregnancy?
Pregnancy comes with many changes and emotions. You might feel happiness, uncertainty, anticipation, and even anxiety. It’s natural to be focused on preparing for your baby’s arrival, but don’t forget that your well-being is just as important.
Taking care of yourself during pregnancy is vital to preparing for motherhood. At First Care, we’re here to walk alongside you with free and confidential support as you care for yourself and your baby.
Listen to Your Body
The demands of pregnancy can be overwhelming. It’s easy to keep pushing forward between prenatal visits, preparing your home, and gathering baby supplies. That’s why it’s so important to check in with yourself and be honest about what you need.
Don’t be afraid to speak up, whether you need to nap, have a quiet evening at home, or receive additional support from a loved one. The people in your life may want to support you, but they might not know how unless you share what would help most.
Rest Is Crucial
Sleep and rest are fundamental to a healthy pregnancy. Fatigue is normal, especially in the later months of pregnancy, and resting when you can helps prepare you for the physical demands ahead.
Taking short naps or enjoying a slower routine when possible can make a big difference.
Nourish Yourself
Eating well is an essential part of self-care. It’s not about perfection—it’s about giving your body what it needs to support your baby’s development and your energy levels. Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein-rich foods, and water into your diet.
Taking prenatal vitamins and eating balanced meals are simple ways to support your health and your baby’s growth.
Keep Moving
Staying active can help improve your mood and keep your joints and muscles moving. Gentle movement, such as swimming, walking around the block, or stretching, can be instrumental in your daily routine.
Always consult your healthcare provider to find the level of activity that’s right for you.
Stay Connected
Spending time with a friend, having a quiet night in with family, or attending a support group for pregnant moms can help you feel grounded.
Pregnancy is full of change, and every day may feel different. You are worthy of having a strong community behind you to face the ups and downs. Give yourself permission to rest and ask for help. You deserve it.
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
At First Care, we offer free and confidential resources to support you at every stage. Whether you need someone to talk to, help finding local services, or parenting education, we’re here.
Schedule an appointment today. We’re here to help.
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4 Tips for Managing Stress During Pregnancy
We know pregnancy can feel overwhelming and filled with stress at times. There are ways to reduce the anxiety you feel drastically. We’re here to share four tips for managing stress during pregnancy.
At First Care, we are here to walk with you as you seek answers during your pregnancy and beyond. We offer free and confidential pregnancy services and options information.
Tips for Managing Stress During Pregnancy
#1: Work through your emotions
While working through every emotion that comes your way can be difficult right now, try it one day at a time. Write about your feelings, talk it out with a friend, or slow down to process your emotions.
Your mind and body will thank you later for taking the time to work through every emotion as best as possible. It’s worth the effort.
#2: Spend time with friends/family
A study conducted by Carnegie Mellon University found that people use their family and friends as a stress buffer, talking through their problems instead of engaging in negative coping mechanisms.
Being with friends and family can reduce stress and ease your mind and your future. We all need a tribe around us, especially during pregnancy.
#3: Self-Care
Self-care is a form of self-love, and it’s a great way to feel refreshed and taken care of during pregnancy. It’s a way of caring for yourself physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Create a self-care routine and rhythm, or simply set a day to pamper yourself with everything you need and love. This could look like:
- Going to the spa or sauna
- Pilates with a friend
- Journaling/self-reflection
- Going on a run/walk in nature
- Meal prepping for the week
- Trying a new recipe
#4: Prepare for what’s next
We all know how tempting it is to procrastinate when stressed. Alleviate some stress by doing the things you’ve been putting off for a while.
Give yourself a deadline and stick to it. When you actually do what you’ve been stressed about, it will feel like the world’s weight is off your shoulders.
We’re Here for You
Our team is here to help you navigate pregnancy. We offer free pregnancy services and support so you can confidently make your next move. Talk to us today to find support.
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How Does Abortion End My Pregnancy?
Abortion works to terminate an existing pregnancy, either through drugs or a surgical procedure. Both chemical abortion and surgical abortion types have risks to consider.
Get the facts about how each abortion ends a pregnancy by reading below. At First Care, we can help you answer any further abortion questions you have.
If you’re considering abortion, get more information about your pregnancy details with us to make an informed decision and safeguard your health.
Two Types of Abortion Procedures
There are two main types of abortions: chemical and surgical. Chemical abortion is only recommended for women through 10 weeks of pregnancy by the FDA. If a pregnancy is further along, it typically requires a surgical abortion.
Chemical Abortion
Chemical abortion includes taking two different drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol.
The first drug, mifepristone, blocks the hormone progesterone and prevents your uterus from sustaining a pregnancy, causing the embryo to detach from the uterine wall. Secondly, misoprostol is taken and causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy from your body.
Potential risks of chemical abortion (the abortion pill) include:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by a surgical procedure
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding that may require medical intervention to stop
- Severe abdominal pain
- Digestive system discomfort
- Infection
- Fever
Surgical Abortion
During a surgical abortion, anesthesia is given before the procedure. Surgical instruments such as dilators, scraping tools, forceps, suction, and a vacuum among others, are used to dilate the cervix and remove the pregnancy through the vagina.
Instruments often used in this procedure are suction, vacuum, scraping tools, forceps, and other surgical tools. These are used to remove all parts of the embryo and gestational sac of the pregnancy.
Some of the risks of surgical abortion include the following:
- Damage to the uterus or cervix
- Uterine perforation
- Excessive and prolonged bleeding that may require medical intervention to stop
- Infection of the uterus or fallopian tubes
- Scarring of the inside of the uterus
- Reaction to the drugs or anesthesia, such as problems breathing
- Not removing all of the tissue, requiring another procedure
- Several of the above risks can cause damage and scar tissue which lead to infertility
Do You Have More Questions?
First things first, get more information about your pregnancy. By beginning with a free lab-quality urine pregnancy testing at First Care.
If you receive positive pregnancy test, we can offer you a free limited ultrasound so you can get more answers about your pregnancy like location, viability, and estimate of how far along you are. We can also provide you with more information about abortion and all your options if needed.
Schedule a free appointment today. Same-day appointments are available.
First Care does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.
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Is Abortion My Only Option if I Don’t Have Any Money?
If you just found out you’re unexpectedly pregnant, worrying about finances is likely at the top of your mind. The uncertainty of how to afford prenatal care, baby supplies, and ongoing expenses can feel overwhelming.
Abortion is not your only option if you don’t have any money as you face pregnancy. Budgeting for pregnancy and beyond is possible, and First Care is here to help. With the right plan and support, you can navigate this season with confidence.
Read on to learn how to get financial support and set yourself up for financial stability. Contact us today to learn about all the ways we’re here to help.
Budgeting for an Unplanned Pregnancy
1. Assess your current financial situation: Start by reviewing your income, expenses, and savings. Identify non-essential expenses you can cut back on to make room for pregnancy-related costs.
2. Create a pregnancy budget: Factor in essential expenses, including:
- Prenatal care and medical costs (check if you qualify for government assistance or reduced-cost clinics)
- Baby essentials (diapers, clothing, car seat, crib, etc.)
- Maternity clothing and supplies
- Possible childcare expenses
3. Explore community and government assistance programs: There are many programs and resources available to help expectant mothers, including:
- WIC (Women, Infants, and Children Program) for food assistance
- Medicaid for pregnancy-related medical care
- Local charities, churches, and other organizations that offer free maternity and baby supplies/support
4. Take advantage of free and discounted resources: First Care offers free educational courses, parenting programs, and material assistance to help ease financial burdens. When you take our parenting classes, you can earn points to buy diapers, gently used baby items, and other essentials.
First Care is Here for You
You don’t have to navigate this all alone. First Care provides practical support, financial resources, and educational opportunities to help you prepare for motherhood without the stress of financial uncertainty.
We are here to help you find the resources you need, whether for prenatal care, parenting support, practical baby items, or basic needs.
If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, help is available. Contact us today to learn about all the ways we’re here to support you during pregnancy and beyond.
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What Can I Do if My Parents Want Me To Get an Abortion That I Don’t Want?
While you may care about your parent’s input about your unexpected pregnancy, the final pregnancy decision is yours to make. No one, including your parents, should force you into an abortion decision. It’s not okay.
Take a step back from your parents if you feel forced into any pregnancy decision that you don’t want to make. At First Care, we are a safe place for you to talk about all your pregnancy options and receive free and confidential support.
Know It’s Ultimately Up to You
You may already feel overwhelmed by your pregnancy options, and it doesn’t help to get pressure from those you love most during this time. Know that the final decision is yours to make, as it will directly impact your future.
It’s important that you make your pregnancy decision outside of family or peer pressure. Give yourself time to decide what’s best for you.
Learn About All Your Options
You have more than one pregnancy option available to you. If abortion is something you don’t want right now, explore your other two options: adoption and parenting.
Adoption
Adoption is the legal transfer of the birth parent’s rights to the adoptive parents. The process of adoption has greatly improved, allowing birth mothers to select an adoption plan that works best for them. There are three types of adoption plans to choose from: open, closed, and semi-open adoption.
At First Care, we provide fully licensed adoption services through our in-house agency, New Life Adoptions. The adoption process starts by meeting with one of our Expectant Parent Social Workers so we can learn more about your unique situation. This initial meeting is also a time for you to get your questions answered about adoption.
Parenting
If you decide to pursue the parenting option, First Care can walk you through the parenting journey. Often, women’s fears about being parents revolve around the need for additional support and resources. We can help.
Our professional staff helps parents provide the resources and support needed to create a successful parenting plan.
Free Support is Available
Talk to us today about all your pregnancy options. We can answer your questions and address your concerns step by step with you. Schedule a free and confidential appointment today.
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