Parenting

You may be wondering if you’re pregnant and thinking about what this could mean for your future. People experience this moment in many different ways—you might feel excited, unsure, overwhelmed, or a mix of emotions.

If you’re considering parenting, you may already feel ready, or you may have questions about what it would look like for you. Parenting can bring both meaningful moments and challenges, and every situation is unique.

We’re here to provide a supportive space where you can explore your options, learn about your pregnancy and what parenting could involve, and connect with helpful resources—so you can make a decision that feels right for you.

Confirm the Pregnancy

If you haven’t yet, verify that you are pregnant with a pregnancy test. Options offers free laboratory-quality pregnancy testing, as well as free limited OB ultrasounds to see how far along you are and rule out an ectopic pregnancy (when the egg is implanted outside of the uterus and cannot survive, which can be dangerous or fatal to the mother).

Understand Your Situation

Becoming a parent is a life-changing event, so it’s good to prepare yourself for what it would entail. You likely have many questions, or even concerns. We are here to help! You don’t have to have all the answers right away, but it can help you to visualize what you would need to succeed as a parent. Options Mankato offers services that can help fulfill some of those needs, including parenting classes, life coaching, and relationship education. We can also refer you to resources in the community.

Next Steps

Whether you choose parenting or are considering other options, we encourage you to start taking prenatal vitamins (available over the counter) and set up prenatal care with a doctor, midwife, or OBGYN as soon as you can. Your health matters!

It’s your choice. You have time to learn about your pregnancy options and to explore what is right for you. We can help you understand your choices and your pregnancy.

Contact Options Mankato to learn more about how we can support you.