4 Consequences of Unplanned Pregnancy

There is no easy way out of an unplanned pregnancy. No matter what you do, you have to make hard choices and do hard things. You cannot simply wish it away or hope it resolves itself on its own. It won’t. You have a life inside you, and that comes with consequences and responsibilities. I have felt these consequences firsthand. Here are some of them.

1. Shame

Being pregnant is nothing to be ashamed of. However, there are people who think that it is. They will gossip about you; they will treat you poorly; they will isolate you. You will feel judged and alone. People you thought were your friends will turn their backs on you. Strangers will discriminate against you. Some people will see your belly and refuse to look you in the eye. Society has come a long way, but the harsh reality is that many people will still treat you poorly simply because you’re single and pregnant.

2. Tough Decisions

Pregnancy means that nothing is about you anymore. The moment you become pregnant, you are eating, breathing, and thinking for two. You may have to alter your lifestyle and the people you surround yourself with.

You have to decide not only what is best for you, but what is best for your child. There is no easy answer to what the right thing to do is. An unplanned pregnancy is not an ideal situation. All you can do is make the best of it.

3. Financial Challenges

Having a baby isn’t cheap. If you were unprepared for the pregnancy, coming up with the money for doctor visits and hospital bills might be tough. Not to mention the astronomical expense of providing for a child should you choose to parent. You may have to prioritize pregnancy expenses over education or other goals.

4. Love 

Even though my pregnancy was unplanned, I consider it a blessing. I love my baby just as much as I would have had she been planned. Having her has enriched and blessed my life in so many ways. I believe that my pregnancy made me a better person with a greater capacity for love and empathy.

Facing an unplanned pregnancy comes with many challenges. It won’t be easy, but it can be done. Your life isn’t over; it’s just different. If you are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, don’t give up. You can make it.