Unwanted pregnancy — what to do right now and next steps

Finding out you’re facing an unwanted pregnancy can feel shocking and scary. First thing: breathe. You don’t have to decide everything today. There are clear, practical steps you can take in the next hours and days to protect your health and explore your options.

Step 1 — confirm the pregnancy. Take a home pregnancy test as soon as you miss a period or suspect pregnancy. If the test is positive, book an appointment with a clinic, family doctor, or sexual health service to confirm with a blood test and get accurate timing.

Step 2 — timing matters. If the possible pregnancy happened in the last few days, emergency contraception can still work. Levonorgestrel pills work best within 72 hours and are easy to find at pharmacies. Ulipristal acetate is effective up to 120 hours (5 days) and may be more reliable later in that window. A copper IUD can also be used as emergency contraception and doubles as long-term birth control if you want that option.

Options if the pregnancy is confirmed

There are generally three paths: continue the pregnancy and parent, continue and choose adoption, or end the pregnancy. If you’re considering ending the pregnancy, most places offer two main methods: medical abortion (pills) and surgical abortion. Medical abortion usually works in early pregnancy and involves medication provided by a clinic or prescriber. Surgical procedures are an option later or if the medical method isn’t suitable.

How do you pick? Think about timing, medical history, how comfortable you are managing bleeding at home, and what services your local clinics provide. Talk openly with a clinician — they’ll tell you which options are available in your area, how far along the pregnancy is, costs, and what follow-up care looks like.

Safety and finding help

Use licensed clinics and pharmacies. Avoid buying pills from unreliable online sources; counterfeit or incorrect drugs can be dangerous. If privacy is a concern, many clinics offer confidential services and can explain laws and options based on where you live. If you need quick support, contact local sexual health clinics, Planned Parenthood (or your country’s equivalent), or a trusted healthcare provider. Hotlines and counseling services can help with emotional support and logistics.

Practical tips: keep notes of dates and symptoms, bring ID and any medication list to appointments, and ask about follow-up care and birth control to prevent a repeat surprise. If cost is a worry, ask clinics about sliding-scale fees or local funds that help cover abortion or consultation fees.

You don’t have to do this alone. Reach out for medical facts, practical support, and someone who will listen without judgment. Knowing your options and getting quick, accurate care puts you back in control.