New Mom? You’re Not Alone
June 17, 2020
Becoming a parent changes your life. Your priorities change. Your schedule changes. Your needs change. Maybe your friends are in the same stage of life and they completely get it. Or maybe you feel like you’re suddenly in this whole other world and you’re navigating it alone.
If you’re a new mom, you need a solid support network. Even if your family and friends are being as loving and supportive as they can be, it’s really helpful to have the support of other moms in a similar stage of life. Someone who is also fluent in the language of diaper brands and nursing bras. Someone who understands how exhausted you are.
So if you aren’t naturally already in a circle of other new moms, how can you build that support network? Here are some ideas:
- Online Groups & Message Boards – If you’re juggling work or school and parenting and don’t have a lot of time for face-to-face meet-ups (or if a worldwide pandemic is keeping you at home), this is a great way to virtually meet other moms in similar stages of life.
- Library StoryTime – Most local libraries have storytime for babies and moms and for preschoolers and moms. During these times, you’ll meet other moms and provide socialization for your little one.
- Music or Exercise Classes – Maybe you can find a baby/toddler/preschooler music class or a Mommy & Me exercise class or stroller aerobics. Some community rec centers offer these classes free for residents or for a very low price.
- MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) or other Mommy & Me Groups – You can search online for a local, organized group that is designed to provide you with the support of other new moms and maybe even offer the encouragement of more experienced moms who volunteer as mentors.
- La Leche League – If you’re breastfeeding, a local La Leche meeting can provide the help and friendship of other nursing moms.
- The Park – If you go to a neighborhood playground in the mid-morning, you’re likely to find some other moms of young children. Who knows – maybe your future mom-network is already standing around the baby swings!
- Ask Your Pediatrician – Your baby’s doctor probably knows a network of support for new moms and can hook you up.
This parenting thing is a huge adjustment and lots of hard work. You don’t have to do it alone. Finding a network of other moms to offer friendship, understanding, advice, and community is vital. When you get together, you may feel bleary-eyed and sleep-deprived, but at least you’ll all feel bleary-eyed and sleep-deprived together.
Are you considering the abortion pill and wondering whether it’s an option for you? At times like these, you may feel uncertain about what steps to take next. We understand the emotions of this kind of decision, and we’re here to offer a safe, compassionate place to talk through your concerns and questions. Understanding how the abortion pill works and who it’s intended for can help you make an informed decision. Our free and confidential services are here to support you as you navigate your next steps. What Is the Abortion Pill? The abortion pill, also called a medical abortion , involves two drugs taken within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. The first drug, mifepristone, works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is needed for a pregnancy to continue. The second drug, misoprostol, is taken later at home to cause cramping and bleeding that expels the pregnancy. While this method is commonly used early in pregnancy, not everyone is eligible to take the abortion pill. Several medical factors need to be considered first. Can I Take the Abortion Pill? It’s essential first to confirm how far along you are and rule out any health concerns that may make the abortion pill not an option . It may be more risky if: You are more than 10 weeks pregnant, dating from the first day of your last menstrual period You have a possible ectopic pregnancy (outside the uterus) You currently have an IUD in place You have certain medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders, heart problems, severe liver or kidney disease, or unmanaged seizures You are taking blood thinners or certain steroid medications You have allergies to the medications involved You cannot return for follow-up care or access emergency services if needed A limited ultrasound is a critical first step. At Collage, we offer free limited OB ultrasounds to qualifying patients. An ultrasound confirms how far along you are, where the pregnancy is located, and whether the pregnancy is progressing. Your First Step Matters If you’re experiencing an unexpected pregnancy and considering the abortion pill, Collage offers free lab-quality pregnancy testing and a limited OB ultrasound. Our team is here to provide you with medically accurate information and a confidential space to explore your options. We’re here to help you take the first step carefully and clearly. Contact us to schedule your free appointment today.
If you’re in your second trimester (between 13 and 26 weeks of pregnancy), you might be asking, What now? Maybe you just found out you’re pregnant, or maybe this stage of pregnancy is bringing new questions or emotions. No matter where you are in your journey, Collage is here to offer support, information, and a safe place to talk through your options. Understanding Abortion Laws in Nebraska In Nebraska, abortion is not permitted after 12 weeks gestation, with limited exceptions. If you’re considering abortion and believe you may be near or past this point, it’s important to have an ultrasound to confirm how far along you are. If you’re unsure how far along you are, Collage offers no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing and ultrasounds to provide the medical information you need to understand your next steps. Exploring Your Other Pregnancy Options If abortion is not an option or you’re unsure what’s next, you still have choices. We can talk with you more about each of them. Parenting Parenting might feel like something you’re not ready for or even impossible right now. But with the right support, it may be more achievable than you think. You don’t have to have all the answers today. At Collage, we can connect you with local resources, parenting classes, and support systems that can help you prepare, step by step. You won’t be alone. Adoption If parenting doesn’t seem like the right fit for your current season, adoption is another option that gives you the ability to make a thoughtful plan for your child. Today’s adoption process puts you in control of key decisions, including: Choosing the adoptive family Deciding how much (if any) communication you’d like to have Creating a plan that reflects your goals and values We offer adoption referrals and a confidential space to explore what this might look like for you—no pressure, just information and support. You’re Not Alone Navigating pregnancy in the second trimester can feel heavy, but you don’t have to walk through it by yourself. At Collage, you’ll find compassionate care, medical services, and honest answers to your questions. Schedule your no-cost appointment today. We’re here to listen and support through this process.
An unexpected pregnancy can leave you with more questions than answers. Especially when friends are urging you to choose abortion, you may be more confused than ever. While their advice might come from care or fear, it’s essential to remember this is your pregnancy, future, and choice. At Collage, we’re here to help you navigate this pressure and find a path that feels right for you so that you can feel informed and confident about your decision. Reach out to us today for no-cost support. Listen to Your Instincts Your friends might be an important part of your life, but your instincts matter most. If abortion doesn’t feel right, take a moment to ask: What’s holding me back? Maybe you’re picturing parenting your child or are curious about adoption. It’s also important to keep in mind that abortion is a serious procedure that your friends may not fully grasp the details of. Physical and emotional risks are involved, making it a more complex decision. Your hesitation is a sign to slow down and explore, not to rush into a choice you’re not ready for. Talk It Out If your friends keep pressing, try a gentle conversation. Let them know you understand they’re worried, you’re not sure about abortion yet. Ask what’s driving their advice. Maybe they’re scared about your finances or future. Maybe they’re simply telling you what they’d do in your situation, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Understanding their side can ease tension without giving in. If they won’t respect your space, set boundaries and let them know you need time to think. You don’t owe them an immediate answer. Find Your Support Surround yourself with people who’ll lift you up, not pull you down. Write down your thoughts or talk to someone neutral. You can find a counselor or even online spaces where you can share your heart with those who won’t push one option over another. Even a trusted family member, a mentor, or a place like Collage can offer perspective without strings. You deserve to make this decision with clear facts and a steady heart, not under pressure. Help is Available If your friends are pushing abortion but you’re not ready, Collage is here with no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited obstetric ultrasounds, and pregnancy options education to help you decide what’s next. Our trained team offers confidential support to explore parenting, adoption, or abortion without pressure. Contact us for a no-cost appointment today. You deserve to choose your own path.
