What is an unplanned pregnancy?
An unplanned pregnancy can be very stressful and cause confusion and anxiety, because it is unexpected. But it also can be:

• A pregnancy where there is a broken relationship
• When there are financial struggles and needs
• A pregnancy when there are school or work pressures
• A pregnancy where there is family tension
• When there are health concerns
• A stressful situation that makes pregnancy a challenge

For these reasons, women will experience a wide variety of feelings and emotions.

What are the fears common with an unplanned pregnancy?
Fear is from a variety of factors:

• Sudden life changes
• Telling people such as her parents, boyfriend or husband that she is pregnant
• Supporting herself financially
• Completing her education or how pregnancy will affect her work
• How a baby will change her life
• Reaching her goals and dreams

Remember, when you are in the middle of a crisis, it is the worst time to make impulsive and quick decisions. Talk to someone who understands and cares about you. You are not alone. Think about your future.

Get information to make an informed decision because you are the one that will live with your choice the rest of your life.

If you think you are pregnant, what should you do?

1. It is important to take time to examine your options closely.
   The options are: carry and parent, carry and place for adoption or abortion…
   All are life changing choices and none are quick fixes.
   
   
2. You should have an accurate pregnancy test.
   The VPC offers free, accurate pregnancy tests while you wait for the results.
   
   
3. Talk to someone who cares.
   The VPC offers free, ongoing counseling and support to women and families facing unplanned pregnancy. All services are free, confidential and provided in a caring and compassionate atmosphere.
   
   
4. Get informed about the development of your child.
   The VPC counselors can begin educating you about what steps to take and refer you to a physician for confirmation of the pregnancy test results.
   
   
5. Find out the age of the baby and the status of your health.
   The Valley Pregnancy Center is a California State licensed medical facility with on site doctors and nurses available to provide early pregnancy related medical care, consultation, and Ultrasound imaging.
   
   
6. Become informed about groups that can help you carry your baby to term and teach you about childbirth.
   The VPC offers a PreNatal and Birthing Preparation Class. Learn about nutrition, fetal development, labor and delivery through discussion and videos.
   
   
7. Look ahead to parenting. Start thinking about your plans. Discuss them with your family and spouse or boyfriend.
   The VPC offers free, ongoing counseling and support to women and their families.
   Free Parenting Classes for new moms. (birth to six years old)
   Practical helps to new moms such as maternity clothes, diapers,
   baby clothes, formula, cribs, strollers, car seats, layettes, high chairs, and more.
   
   
8. Learn about adoption possibilities.
   Placing the baby for adoption is a gift of life.
   The VPC offers referrals for adoption.