If you become unexpectedly pregnant, your mind may be consumed with worries about financial costs. It’s natural to wonder if you can afford to have a child at this time. You’re not alone; many women feel the same way.
Fortunately, you don’t need to figure out your financial situation alone. Resources exist to assist women in similar situations, and we can help refer you to them.
So Where Do You Start?
First, you do not have to figure everything out today. The most common question we receive is: “What should I do first?” The answer is: you should confirm your pregnancy.
Our center offers free pregnancy testing and limited-OB ultrasounds to give you accurate medical information regarding your pregnancy, including how far along you are and whether your pregnancy is viable. This allows you to gather accurate information based on facts, not fear, and to make more educated decisions about your pregnancy. These services are completely free and do not require insurance.
What Will It Cost to Have a Baby?
Having a baby can be expensive. Diapers, formula, doctor visits, clothing, and more add up quickly. Fortunately, programs in Georgia assist pregnant women and new parents through services such as:
- Medicaid to cover pregnancy-related expenses: The income limits are higher for pregnant women compared with the general public.
- WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) to aid with food and nutritional assistance.
- SNAP (food stamp) or TANF (temporary cash assistance).
- Local clothing closets and diaper banks in Union County.
Many women don’t even know how simple it is to qualify for assistance through these programs and others. Roughly one in five pregnancies in the U.S. are funded through Medicaid, especially in rural communities where private health insurance is scarce, like our area.
Free Help if You Live Near Blairsville
If you live in Union County, or in the surrounding areas, there are plenty of community resources available to help you at this time. Our center has an extensive list of community resources available (housing assistance and parenting classes) that can assist pregnant women in need. We will connect you with the right agency based on the type of assistance you need.
Examples may include free baby items from local nonprofit organizations, clinics using sliding scale fee structures, and assistance with transportation to doctor’s appointments. Please ask us about this when you contact us.
You’re Not Choosing Between Baby and Poverty
One of the most common things we hear women express is that they can’t afford to have a baby and therefore have no option besides abortion. It’s important for every woman who is pregnant to know that there is financial assistance available to help you get through the first year after your baby is born. Many women choose to become parents by utilizing support from family, friends, and community services, as well as government benefit programs.
We don’t push you into any of these decisions. We present all your options, parenting, adoption, and abortion, with accurate information and zero judgment. But if your main concern is money, we want you to know what’s actually out there before you decide.
What About Your Job or Education?
Options are available if you’re concerned about your employment or education while pregnant. The Pregnancy Discrimination Act protects the rights of pregnant workers. Many Georgia colleges offer reasonable accommodations to students who are pregnant, and there are childcare subsidies available to low-income families.
Talk to Us
We help women with questions regularly. The first step in assisting you is providing you with a free pregnancy test and performing an ultrasound to confirm your pregnancy. We will then gather information about your living situation, financial situation, and support system, and connect you with any resources available based on your individual circumstances.
If you want to discuss your options, please call us at (706) 745-0051 or send a text to our nurses line at 706-403-1017. You can also come to our center located at 136 Hospital Dr., Ste A, Blairsville, GA 30512. You can schedule your appointment schedule online. We’re open Tuesday through Thursday, 9am to 5pm.
An unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. There are people, resources, and practical support available to help you move forward with confidence. When you’re ready, we’re here to help you take the next step!