Life is challenging, especially in high school. An unexpected pregnancy only adds to your stress, frustration and fear. But don’t lose hope. The fact that you’re reading this means you’re trying to figure out a plan.
Are You Really Pregnant?
Before you do anything, verify you’re actually pregnant first. Are you experiencing early pregnancy symptoms? If you only took an at-home pregnancy test, you should confirm your results with a test that is lab-quality. Believe it or not, even if you received a positive pregnancy test result at home, you may not be pregnant.
For example, the Mayo Clinic reports that close to 20% of known pregnancies end in a natural miscarriage and there are a variety of different reasons that can cause a miscarriage. A miscarriage can happen for a woman who doesn’t even know she is pregnant and might seem like a late period. In this case, your body takes time to get rid of the pregnancy hormones and depending on when you took a pregnancy test, could give a positive result without actually being pregnant.
Free Pregnancy Services
Is your period late? A late period doesn’t necessarily always mean you’re pregnant either. Your monthly cycle length can change due to rapid weight gain or loss, a hormone imbalance, certain medications, strenuous exercise/sports training, or stress. Regardless of whether or not you’ve taken an at-home pregnancy test or if your period is late, Alpha Center offers confidential, lab-quality pregnancy tests at no cost to you. Scheduling a quick appointment is easy and can be done after school. If your result comes back positive and one of our trained staff members thinks it’s necessary, she’ll also schedule you for a free ultrasound.
An ultrasound scan collects critical information about your pregnancy. It will tell you if your pregnancy is viable and progressing and if it’s located in the uterus. It will also tell you how far along you are. These details will help you understand the options available to you and if you need any immediate medical attention.
Can I Be Pregnant & Still Go To High School?
Yes! According to Title IX, any school that receives federal financial aid, such as a public high school, cannot discriminate against a pregnant or parenting teen.
Title IX requires schools to excuse pregnancy-related absences. Your school’s staff will work with you to make up any missed assignments or tests due to your pregnancy or childbirth for as long as your doctor feels it’s medically necessary. Your teachers, principal, counselors and coaches are prohibited from excluding you from any educational program or activity. Every school counselor should be well-equipped with information and resources for pregnant students that are specific to your school.
Next Steps and Support
We believe in you and want you to know you don’t have to do this alone. Schedule a free and confidential appointment at our center to begin your journey. We can provide free pregnancy services and discuss all the options available to you in a safe and comfortable environment. It’s your decision. We’ll be here to give you the support, information and encouragement you need to move forward with confidence. Contact us and let’s talk about your future.