This may not be how you planned to become a mother. Looking at a positive pregnancy test, you may have huge fears about being a single mom and you may be considering an abortion, which is just as scary. This is a situation that is common, with reports indicating that 85% of the women who obtain abortions are not married. The thought of parenting alone can be frightening. However, you are not alone.

I have been there. I remember feeling like a failure, feeling scared, and feeling like I had no control over my life. I can totally relate to your concerns about being a single mom. So, let’s work this out together. First, take a deep breath and take this decision seriously. Do not rush or make a rash decision. The pressures from society to live up to a certain standard or certain plan for your life do not matter. You matter and making a rash decision can lead you to a lifetime of consequences and possibly a lifetime of regret.

A fear most single mothers have is how they will financially support and care for a child on their own.  That’s why it’s important to plan! It may be hard, but with a plan and the right resources you will be able to focus on the rewarding parts of motherhood and not just the hard parts.

I wish someone had told me these ways to plan before I became a single mom:

• • Build a support system. You start building your list when you visit Alcove Health Women’s clinic. Our trained client advocates can also help you with over 300 community resources, including parenting classes, baby items and maternity supplies. Our registered nurses can get you headed in the right direction for prenatal care.
  • Connect with other single parents who can support you and give you advice.
  • Consider finding a birthing partner, who will hold your hand and be there with you throughout your pregnancy and birth.
  • The more you plan small goals and complete them, the more you will feel in control of your situation. Take it one day at a time and one goal at a time!