We Answered The Top 5 Most-Googled Questions About Pregnancy

January 19, 2024
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Suspecting or finding out that you’re pregnant can be an exciting but also overwhelming experience. You may find yourself Googling the best time to take a pregnancy test or how your body is about to change. Just like last month’s post on STDs & STI’s, we're here to answer the top 5 most-searched questions about pregnancy. Just remember, our purpose here is to help you stay informed, but if you think you might be pregnant it’s always best to reach out to your healthcare provider.

 

How Do Home Pregnancy Tests Work, And When Can I Take One?

 

This is one of the most common questions, and understandably so. The timing of a pregnancy test is key for ensuring an accurate result. Generally, you can take a home pregnancy test about 1 week after a missed period, although some tests can offer results even sooner. Pregnancy tests work by detecting a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG for short), which is released when a fertilized egg attaches to your uterine wall.Your body doesn’t make this hormone if you’re not pregnant. For the most accurate result, test first thing in the morning and avoid drinking too much water before the test so as not to dilute the HCG in your urine. At Collage, we offer lab-quality pregnancy tests at no cost to our clients.

 

What Are the Early Signs of Pregnancy?

 

Early signs of pregnancy can vary from woman to woman, but some common indicators include:

 

  • Missed menstrual period
  • Breast tenderness
  • Nausea or “morning sickness”
  • Fatigue
  • Frequent urination
  • Mood swings
  • Food aversions or cravings

 

It's important to note that these symptoms can also have other causes, so a pregnancy test is the most reliable way to confirm.

 

What Should I Eat (or Avoid) During Pregnancy?

 

Nutrition is crucial during pregnancy. You should focus on a well-balanced diet that includes:

 

  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Whole grains
  • Lean proteins
  • Dairy or dairy alternatives

 

Additionally, it's best to avoid certain foods like raw fish, unpasteurized dairy products, excessive caffeine, and alcohol. Consult with your healthcare provider for personalized dietary recommendations based on your health history and pregnancy progress.

 

How Much Weight Should I Gain During Pregnancy?

 

The appropriate weight gain during pregnancy varies depending on factors such as your pre-pregnancy weight and health. In general:

 

  • Underweight women may need to gain more weight.
  • Normal-weight women may aim for 25-35 pounds.
  • Overweight women may need to gain less weight.


Your healthcare provider will monitor your weight throughout the pregnancy and provide guidance based on your individual needs.
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What Exercises Are Safe During Pregnancy?

 

Staying active during pregnancy is beneficial and may help you have a smoother delivery, but it's important to choose sensible exercises. Generally, low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are safe choices. Avoid activities with a high risk of falling or injury, and listen to your body, modifying or stopping exercises if you experience discomfort. Of course, always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise routine.2

 

While the internet can provide valuable information, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice based on your specific circumstances. If you have any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to reach out to your friends here at Collage. Whether you need a reliable pregnancy test, an ultrasound to determine the viability of the pregnancy, or just want someone to talk to, we’re here for you.

November 11, 2025
Learning you’re unexpectedly pregnant can bring up complicated emotions, uncertainty, fear, or even exhaustion if you’ve faced this situation before. You may know that you don’t want another abortion, but still wonder what options exist for your future. At Collage, we provide free and confidential support so you can explore your choices in a compassionate environment. Whether you want to understand what parenting or adoption could look like or simply need someone to listen, you’re not alone. Schedule a free appointment today to learn how we can help. Exploring Parenting Parenting can feel like an enormous responsibility, especially if your finances, relationships, or housing situation are uncertain. Many women ask themselves: “Can I really do this on my own?” “Where will I find the help I need?” “What kind of future can I provide for my child?” These are real and valid questions. At Collage, we’ll help you identify the resources and support available in your community. From offering a warm, supportive presence as you explore this option to providing referrals for resources like housing or childcare support, we’ll ensure you’re not facing these challenges alone. Parenting can be both demanding and deeply rewarding. With encouragement, community connections, and the right information, you can feel more confident in providing a stable, nurturing environment for your child. Understanding Adoption If parenting doesn’t feel like the right fit for your current situation, adoption offers another path forward, one rooted in hope and love. You remain in control of the process, deciding how involved you wish to be in your child’s life. You can select from multiple adoption plans depending on your comfort level: Open adoption: Allows for ongoing communication and contact between you, your child, and the adoptive family. Semi-open adoption: Offers limited contact through a third party, maintaining privacy while keeping some connection. Closed adoption: Protects complete confidentiality with no exchange of identifying information. Financial support is available throughout the adoption process. You’ll never pay for legal or medical services related to adoption. Best of all, adoption agencies can help ensure your needs are met and your wishes are respected every step of the way. Adoption is not an easy decision, but for some women, it brings a sense of peace and purpose, knowing their child is loved and cared for in a stable environment. We can discuss this option with you and offer referrals to reputable agencies so you feel informed. Taking the Next Step Your situation is unique, and so is your decision. Whether you’re considering parenting or adoption or simply need time to process your feelings, Collage is here to provide information and encouragement. We’re available to answer questions, explain your options, and connect you with trusted community resources, all at no cost and in a confidential setting. Schedule your free appointment today to start finding clarity and peace of mind. FAQ: Is it normal to feel uncertain about my decision? Yes. Many women experience mixed emotions when facing an unexpected pregnancy. It’s okay to take time and talk through your options before deciding. What if I don’t think I can afford to parent? We can connect you with programs and community partners that provide material and emotional support, so you will feel more equipped to parent if you choose to. How does adoption work? You remain in control. You’ll choose the family and the level of contact and receive guidance from trusted professionals who handle the legal and practical aspects of the process. Are services at Collage really free? Yes. All services are completely free and confidential. Your privacy and comfort are our priority. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do offer pre-abortion screening through our no-cost services.
By Kirsten Berns October 28, 2025
Finding out your partner is unexpectedly pregnant can change everything in an instant. You may feel shocked, worried, or unsure about your role. Those feelings are normal. What matters most is how you respond in this moment and what steps you take next. At Collage, we provide no-cost and confidential services for women and men walking through unexpected pregnancies. Schedule an appointment to learn how we can support you—you don’t have to carry the weight of this situation alone. Understanding Your Own Feelings Before you can support your partner, it’s important to process what you’re experiencing. Talking with a trusted friend, family member, or mentor can help you sort through your emotions and understand what this news means. Showing your partner that you are engaging with your own feelings demonstrates that you are taking the pregnancy seriously. Walking With Her Your partner may be feeling the same uncertainty and fear that you are. One of the most powerful things you can do is simply be present. Attend appointments with her, listen when she shares her concerns, and offer support, like running errands or helping with everyday tasks. These small actions communicate that she is not facing this alone. Learning Together Getting informed is one of the best steps you can take together. At Collage, we provide option information so you and your partner can learn more about parenting, adoption, and abortion. Our staff will answer questions and help you understand what each option may look like. Having reliable, unbiased information allows you to approach this decision more confidently. Taking the Next Step This is not something you have to figure out overnight. Unexpected pregnancies can feel overwhelming, but there are resources, support, and people who care about both of you. Collage is here to listen, guide, and provide clarity when you need it most. Request your no-cost and confidential appointment today. Moving forward together can make all the difference. FAQ: What role should I play if my partner is pregnant? Listening, staying present, and supporting her as she makes decisions is crucial. You don’t have to have every answer, but being by her side matters. Can I attend appointments with her? Yes, and many women appreciate having their partner there. It shows support and can help both of you learn about options together. What if my partner chooses parenting and I don’t feel ready to be a dad? It’s normal to feel unprepared. Talking through your concerns with someone you trust and learning about options can help you move forward with more clarity.  Does Collage provide abortions? Collage does not provide or refer for abortions. However, we do provide no-cost pre-abortion screenings, confidential services, accurate information, and compassionate support so you and your partner can make informed decisions.
September 24, 2025
When considering abortion, it’s natural to wonder how the decision could affect your mental health. While every woman’s experience is different, being aware of possible emotional impacts and taking time to reflect on your circumstances can help you make an informed choice. At Collage, we provide free, confidential support so you don’t have to navigate these questions alone. Our staff is here to listen, answer your questions, and connect you with the resources you need as you process your options. Contact us to schedule your appointment today.  What Research Suggests Research has shown that abortion can lead to a range of emotional responses. The American Psychological Association notes that some women experience grief, sadness, or even clinically significant issues like depression and anxiety afterward. Certain factors may make these outcomes more likely, such as: A history of mental health challenges Pressure from others to make a decision Lack of support or secrecy about the pregnancy Strong personal, cultural, or spiritual beliefs Wanting to continue the pregnancy but feeling unable to Recognizing how these factors may apply to your situation can help you prepare and seek support. You Have Other Options You are the one who will live with this decision, so it’s important not to rush. Confirming your pregnancy with a lab- quality test and ultrasound can provide clarity and help you understand your options, which include parenting and adoption. Speaking with a counselor or a healthcare professional can also give you space to process your feelings without judgment. We’re Here for You At Collage, we offer free pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and confidential consultations so you can explore your options with accurate information and compassionate support. Schedule your free appointment today. You deserve the time, space, and care to make a confident decision with your mental health top of mind. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do provide pre-abortion screenings.
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