Unwanted pregnancy — what to do right now

Finding out you might be pregnant when you don’t want to be is scary. Breathe. The next steps matter, and acting fast can give you more options. This short guide tells you what to do immediately, what options exist, and where to find trusted help.

First actions you can take today

1) Take a pregnancy test. Home tests are accurate if you wait at least a week after a missed period or about two weeks after possible exposure. If the test is negative but you still suspect pregnancy, repeat it in a few days or get a clinic test.

2) Consider emergency contraception right away if sex happened recently and you want to avoid pregnancy. There are OTC pills that work best within 72 hours and others that work up to 120 hours. A copper IUD can also be used as emergency contraception and is the most effective option if placed by a clinician within five days.

3) If you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, fever, or fainting, go to the nearest emergency department or call emergency services now.

Know your main options

If the pregnancy is confirmed, you generally face three paths: continue the pregnancy and parent, continue and seek adoption, or end the pregnancy. What’s available to you depends on how far along the pregnancy is and local laws.

Medical abortion (the pill) is commonly offered early in pregnancy—many places allow it up to around 10 weeks, but rules vary. Surgical options are available later in pregnancy at clinics and hospitals depending on local regulations. Always check with a trusted clinic so you get safe, legal care.

Want privacy or worry about cost? Look for community health centers, family planning clinics, or telehealth services. Many clinics offer sliding-scale fees, payment plans, or referrals to support programs. Planned Parenthood (US), NHS clinics (UK), and local family planning organizations are good starting points—search for clinics near you and read recent reviews.

Don't forget follow-up care. If you use emergency contraception, get a pregnancy test after the next expected period. If you end a pregnancy, clinics will give follow-up instructions, STI testing, and options for long-term contraception (IUD, implant, pills) so you’re protected going forward.

Emotional support matters. Talk to a friend you trust, call a local hotline, or ask your clinic about counseling. If you’re a minor, rules on confidentiality vary—ask the clinic how they protect your privacy.

Final practical tip: check local laws and clinic availability before travelling for care. If you’re unsure where to start, search for "family planning clinic near me," call a national reproductive health hotline, or use telehealth to get safe, confidential advice fast.