Pregnancy Counseling

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If You're Pregnant and Need Help, Call 1-800-537-2229 to Speak with a Caring Pregnancy Counselor

Chances are you never thought you would experience an unplanned pregnancy, and you may feel overwhelmed at times. You're not sure yet what decision you should make about your baby - sometimes one path seems right, but at other times you're not so sure.

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As you decide what course to follow, consider the following:

1. Make sure you have a good support system.

If you are close to your family, they will be a resource to you as you make important decisions. You may also find it helpful to talk with a religious leader. In addition, consider visiting an agency that offers help for people dealing with an unplanned pregnancy. The agency should be able to offer free emotional support as well as information about all of your options.

2. What does your child deserve?

Ask yourself what kind of situation would best help your baby live a happy, healthy life. Which decision would most likely help your child have the life you envision for him or her?

3. Who will benefit the most from your decision - you or your baby?

Write down your different options. Then, under each option, list the reasons why that would be a good decision. When you're done, review the entire list. How many statements focus on "I" or "me," and how many focus on your baby? Of all the options, which would seem to benefit your child the most?

4. Know that any decision will be difficult.

If you choose abortion, you may experience feelings of remorse and guilt. If you are a single parent, your child will have to live without the presence of a father in the home, and your choices for your own life will be more limited. If you choose to marry and raise your child, you may face difficult challenges and adjustments. If you choose an adoption plan, you will go through a grieving process. No decision is "the easy way out."

But there is hope. After visiting LDS Family Services, many women have felt confident and peaceful about their decisions. The assistance provided by qualified counselors at LDS Family Services is free and confidential. For more information, visit www.itsaboutlove.org or call 1-800-537-2229. Agencies are located throughout the U.S. and Canada. If an agency is not in your area, a counselor will make arrangements that are convenient for you.

Going to LDS Family Services was the best decision I could have made for myself and my baby. I didn't have a clue what I was going to do or how best to handle the situation, but that is what they were there for. They just did their best to educate me on the various options and their consequences. I am grateful for all the love, education and support from LDS Family Services. ~ Jaime, 25