Facing an unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but you do have options. It’s important to choose what feels right for you, your values, and your circumstances. Your three main options are:
You can choose to carry the pregnancy and raise the child. There are support services available for young or single parents, including financial aid, counselling, and healthcare.
You can choose to carry the pregnancy and place the child for adoption. You may be able to choose the adoptive family and decide how much contact you want.
In South Africa, abortion is legal and safe during the early stages of pregnancy (up to 12 weeks without needing to give a reason). You can access services through public clinics and hospitals.
Getting tested for HIV during pregnancy is very important for your health and your baby’s health. The earlier HIV is diagnosed, the better the chances of preventing it from passing to your baby.
Testing is quick, free, and confidential.
If you test negative great news! Continue regular check-ups and stay HIV-negative by using condoms and knowing your partner’s status.
If you test positive don’t panic. You can still have a healthy pregnancy and baby with the right treatment.
You can still have a healthy pregnancy and baby. With proper care and treatment, the risk of passing HIV to your baby can be reduced to less than 1%.
Pregnancy is usually divided into three stages (trimesters):
