Pregnancy has a funny way of showing up right when it’s least expected. Unplanned pregnancies can cause a lot of stress, worry, fear, and uncertainty for both mother and father. It doesn’t necessarily mean that the pregnancy is not welcomed, but rather that the parents are unprepared and not ready to take on the responsibility of caring for a child.

If you are suffering from worry and stress due to an unplanned pregnancy, here are some tips that may help to put you at ease.

First of all, find someone who you can communicate with honestly, without fear of judgement. Speak with a family member or friend who you trust to be supportive. If there is no one you feel you can turn to, perhaps you could find a counselor to speak with.

Realize that you can’t keep your pregnancy a secret forever. The sooner things are out in the open, the better. You may find that you get a variety of reactions, some good and some bad. Some people sour at the thought of unplanned pregnancy, particularly if you are young and unmarried. There is nothing you can do to change their views. Simply be honest and open with them, and if they insult or degrade you, cut them out. You don’t have time to deal with unsupportive people at this trying period in your life.

Don’t let yourself get depressed or lethargic. If you are feeling intense negative emotions, seek out the help of a medical professional immediately. Your health, as well as your baby’s, could be at risk.

Make sure that the father is informed immediately– this involves him just as much as it involves you. The two of you need to mutually discuss your options and decide what course your relationship will take. Unfortunately, some men are unwilling to be held responsible for a baby and will bail out at the first sign of trouble. This happens to millions of women every year.

Remember that even though this is a difficult time in your life, you are not alone. Millions of people deal with unplanned pregnancies and single parenthood, and most get through the experience without too many scars.