Your pregnancy options
So, I’m pregnant. What are my options?
Parenting
If you are facing an unplanned or unexpected pregnancy the choice of parenting can seem daunting, however, it can also be extremely rewarding.
When considering the options available to you, you owe it to yourself to consider raising your child.
We provide you with a safe, non-judgemental space to explore whether being a parent is something that you might be able to do in your unique situation.
Parenting might be new to you or something you didn’t expect to be doing just yet, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t do it and do it well.
Some things to consider while you’re thinking about if parenting is right for you are:
What sort of support network do I have?
Are there resources or supports in my community to help me?
How will I financially support my child?
Am I in a safe and stable situation to raise a child?
Will I be able to continue my education or career if I have a child?
Hope’s Dream QLD can support you with resources and community support if you choose to become a parent.
Mentoring throughout pregnancy and though the first year of your baby’s life
Material assistance for access to baby goods including furniture, nappies and clothing
Connecting you with other services in Mackay that you can support you with concerns regarding housing, domestic violence, access to healthcare, among other things
Social connection through mothers groups
Adoption
Adoption is an option that is often overlooked by women experiencing an unplanned pregnancy.
Just 2% of women facing an unplanned pregnancy in Australia choose adoption [1], however, it can be a way to create something positive out of an unexpected and difficult situation.
Through adoption, you can give a loving family the gift of a baby they may not otherwise have had.
If you are considering adoption, we can support you as you explore this possibility for you and your baby.
You can read more about adoption in Queensland here.
If there is anything you are having difficulty understanding we can help you to make sense of things through our free counselling service.
“Adoption is complicated, but it is also rich with narratives of strength.”
Abortion
Having an abortion is a life-changing decision so it is important to have up-to-date, accurate information about the procedure and its risks.
Medical Abortion
A medical abortion [1, 2] can be done prior to nine weeks gestation and involves taking two different pills; the first to terminate the pregnancy, and the second to stimulate uterine contractions.
Surgical Abortion
A surgical abortion [1] in the first trimester involves dilating your cervix and using suction to remove the contents and lining of the uterus. After the first trimester, a more complex surgical procedure is required.
What are the risks?
Medical side effects: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, chills or fever, headache
Incomplete abortion – retained products of conception, may require surgical management
Ongoing pregnancy
Infection
Excessive bleeding severe enough to require a blood transfusion
Allergy to the medication
Damage to the cervix or uterus (surgical abortion)
Women who have undergone an abortion can experience an increased risk of mental health problems [3], notably depression, anxiety, regret or guilt and post-traumatic stress. These feelings can last for years after the abortion. No matter how you feel, support is available.
An increased risk of pre-term birth in subsequent pregnancies [4, 5]
Possible fertility issues related to infections and scarring [5]