Icons_-20.png

Pregnancy

There are two kinds of pregnancies – one is when you are consciously trying to have a baby and the other is when it happens unintentionally, without you planning for it.

Planned Pregnancy

If you are planning to get pregnant, it is recommended that you:

  • Check that you have been vaccinated against Rubella (German measles). German measles when contracted when pregnant can be very harmful to an unborn baby so check with your doctor you are vaccinated before you start trying to conceive.

  • Take folic acid supplements. Folic acid can help prevent defects of a baby’s brain and spinal cord. It can be purchased in any local pharmacies.

  • Stop smoking, as this will increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy and baby. The same applies to your partner.

  • Lower or stop your alcohol consumption, for the same reason as above. The same applies to your partner.

  • Don’t take any recreational drugs as this can seriously affect the chances of you conceiving and can be very unhealthy to an unborn child. The same applies to your partner.

  • Eat regular balanced meals so you have all the nutrients to support a healthy pregnancy.

Useful Tips to Get Pregnant:

It helps to keep track of your monthly cycle so you know when you are most likely to be ovulating. The average cycle is approximately 28 days. To calculate your own menstrual cycle you should take note from the first day of your period, and count how many days until your next bleed occurs. Ovulation is most likely to occur 10-15 days before your next period arrives. This is considered the most fertile time and the time you will most likely to conceive.

It is possible to buy ovulation kits from pharmacies to help you to know when you are ovulating.

Unplanned (Crisis) Pregnancy

Having an unplanned pregnancy can leave you with conflicting and strong feelings. It’s important you take the time you need to look at your issues and thoughts calmly to make the best decision you can.

Crisis pregnancies are more common in Ireland than one might think, especially among young people.

According to the Irish Contraception and Crisis Pregnancy [ICCP] Study, 35% of women experienced crisis pregnancy at on point, with 65% of them being in a steady relationship. The most vulnerable age for crisis pregnancy is reported to be 23 years for women and 24 for men.

Crisis Pregnancy Support:

Our centre at 16 Peters Street offers crisis pregnancy support, from free pregnancy tests to free 1:1 consultations, where our knowledgeable counsellors will provide you with comprehensive and non-biased information, help you explore your feelings regarding all the options you have (parenting, adoption and abortion), and facilitate and support you in reaching your own best decision.

Our counsellors will never judge or decide for you.

If you decide to terminate your pregnancy, we offer free post-termination counselling.

You can find more information on crisis pregnancy and your options on Positive Options, HSE Crisis Pregnancy Program or ring the My Options freephone line on 1800 828 010.

If you require our support or more information, don’t hesitate to ring our helpline on 021 427 6676 or drop-in!