Discovering an unexpected pregnancy as a teenager can feel overwhelming and isolating. In a single moment, your world shifts, and you’re faced with complex questions about your future, your health, and your options. If you’re searching for teen pregnancy resources, know that you’re taking an important first step—and you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
Whether you’re looking for information about pregnancy testing, exploring your options, or wondering how to tell your parents, Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center is here to provide the confidential support and teen pregnancy resources you need. Our compassionate team understands the unique challenges young people face during an unexpected pregnancy, and we’re committed to helping you make informed decisions that feel right for your future.
Understanding Your Situation: First Steps for Pregnant Teens
When you suspect you might be pregnant, it’s natural to feel anxious, confused, or even scared. These feelings are completely valid. The first step in accessing teen pregnancy resources is confirming whether you’re actually pregnant through reliable testing methods.
Many teenagers worry about the cost of pregnancy tests or fear that seeking help will compromise their privacy. That’s why pregnancy resource centers like Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center exist—to provide free, confidential teen pregnancy resources that remove these barriers. You deserve access to accurate information and caring support, regardless of your financial situation or personal circumstances.
How Do You Know if You’re Pregnant?
If you think you might be pregnant, the first thing to do is take a pregnancy test and receive an ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy and determine how far along you are.
But what if you can’t afford a pregnancy test right now? What if you want to keep this as private as possible while you figure things out? Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center provides free pregnancy tests and free ultrasounds in a compassionate, confidential environment. These essential teen pregnancy resources are available to you without judgment or pressure.
You’re welcome to bring a parent, trusted friend, or loved one to your appointment, or you can come alone—whatever makes you feel most comfortable and supported. Our priority is creating a safe space where you can get the answers you need.
Complete Confidentiality
All of our teen pregnancy resources are 100% confidential. We will never share your testing results, pregnancy status, or decisions with anyone—not your parents, not your school, not anyone—without your explicit permission. Your privacy is protected, and your trust matters to us.
Know Your Legal Rights as a Pregnant Teen
Understanding your legal rights is an important part of accessing teen pregnancy resources. Laws regarding parental consent and notification vary significantly by state, which can affect your options and the decisions available to you. Here at Bridgehaven, we can help you understand the laws in Iowa.
Do You Need a Parent’s Permission to Get an Abortion?
Yes. If you are under the age of 18, a parent or guardian must be notified by the abortion provider before you can receive an abortion.[1]
Beyond the law, you may feel that your parents deserve to know that you’re pregnant, or you may want their help and support as you navigate the decision-making process.
If you feel safe doing so, you may want to tell them once you’ve confirmed your pregnancy at Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center. Our team can also help you prepare for this conversation if you choose to have it.
Navigating Teen Pregnancy Resources: Your Options Explained
One of the most valuable teen pregnancy resources you can access is comprehensive options counseling. Understanding all three pregnancy options—abortion, adoption, and parenting—empowers you to make the decision that aligns with your values, circumstances, and future goals.
Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center provides nonjudgmental information about all options. We’re here to answer your questions honestly, help you explore what each choice would mean for your life, and support you through your decision-making process.
How Do You Tell Your Parents You’re Pregnant?
We get it—telling your parents that you’re pregnant can be one of the most nerve-wracking moments of your life. It can be hard enough to process your own feelings, let alone find the right words to share life-changing news. Here are some tips to help you prepare for this difficult conversation:
Consider Your Options First
While you don’t have to make a final decision immediately, it’s helpful to start thinking about which pregnancy option feels right for your future before talking to your parents. Having an idea of what you might choose can make the conversation feel more manageable.
Confide in Someone You Trust
If you’re unsure what to say or how your parents might react, confide in someone you trust first—perhaps an older sibling, aunt, school counselor, or mentor. They may be able to help you process your thoughts and feelings and put them into words. You could even practice the conversation with them to calm your nerves and build confidence.
Choose the Right Time and Place
Pick a time when your parents aren’t rushed, stressed, or distracted. A private, comfortable setting at home is often best. Make sure you have enough time to talk without interruptions.
Get Straight to the Point
When it comes time to share the news, be direct and clear. Delaying or talking around the subject may cause unnecessary tension and make everyone feel more anxious. You can be as straightforward as: “I have something difficult to tell you. It’s not what I planned, but I’m pregnant.”
Prepare for Their Reaction
Your parents will probably have many questions and strong emotions. They may want to know how long you’ve been sexually active, how far along you are, who the father is, or what you plan to do. These questions can feel accusatory or invasive, but they likely come from a place of concern and love for you, even if it doesn’t feel that way in the moment.
Remember, they’re hearing shocking news for the first time and need time to process their own emotions. Try to answer as calmly and honestly as possible. If you feel your parents are open to hearing more about your feelings, share with them the pregnancy options you’re considering and how you’re thinking about your future.
Important Safety Note
If you’re concerned that either of your parents may react violently to the news, please reach out for help before telling them. If you are actively being abused, please contact the national domestic violence hotline at 800-799-7233 to get help.
Free Teen Pregnancy Resources in Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Finding out that you’re pregnant as a teenager can feel scary and isolating, but there is genuine hope and help available. You don’t have to face this alone or figure everything out by yourself. Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center provides free, comprehensive teen pregnancy resources designed specifically to support young people in your situation.
Our teen pregnancy resources include:
- Free lab-quality pregnancy testing
- Free ultrasounds to confirm pregnancy and dating
- Information about parenting, adoption, and abortion
- Emotional support and a listening ear
- Referrals to additional community resources
- Help preparing to talk with parents or partners
Every service we provide is confidential and free of charge. You don’t need insurance, an ID, or parental permission to access our teen pregnancy resources. We’re here to support you, respect your autonomy, and help you navigate this challenging time with compassion and accurate information.
Give us a call at (319) 200-2125 or schedule your appointment online today. Our caring team is ready to provide the confidential teen pregnancy resources you need to make an informed and empowered decision about your future.
Please be aware that Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center does not provide or refer for abortion services.
Sources
- NOTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS REGARDING PREGNANT MINORS, §135L.3. The Iowa Legislature. (2024, November 19). https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/135L.3.pdf