I Can’t Be Pregnant Right Now: What Are My Options?

 

Avail NYC exists to be a safe haven for women and men facing an unexpected pregnancy or seeking support after an abortion. We are not a medical provider.

 

"I was supposed to get my period last week, but it didn’t come. I figured it might be late, but now it’s been over a week, and I’m feeling anxious. I can’t be pregnant right now—what do I do now?"


If you’re wondering what to do next, you’re not alone. Many people experience a wide range of complicated, intense emotions when facing a possible pregnancy. You may be asking yourself what this means for your future, how it could affect your life, or who you can talk to about it.


No matter what you’re feeling right now, you are not alone. There is time and space to pause, process, and move forward in a way that feels right for you.

Step One: Pause & Check-in with Yourself

Right now, you might feel pressure to figure everything out immediately. Big decisions can feel overwhelming, especially when emotions are running high. But taking a moment to pause, breathe, and gather your thoughts can help bring clarity.

Ways to Find Calm in This Moment

  • Try deep breathing. Inhale for four seconds, hold for four seconds, exhale for four seconds, and repeat.
  • Write down your thoughts. Getting them out of your head and onto paper can help untangle emotions.
  • Move your body. A short walk, stretching, or listening to music can shift your focus.
  • Give yourself space. Stepping away from outside noise, even for a few minutes, can help you reconnect with what you need.

You don’t have to figure everything out right now. Taking a moment for yourself can bring the insight and reassurance you need to take your next step.

Step Two: Take a Pregnancy Test

If your period is late or your body feels different, it’s a good idea to take a early-detection pregnancy test. Testing can help bring clarity in a moment that may feel uncertain or overwhelming. You can take your time, choose a moment that feels right, and do it in a place where you feel safe.


Home tests are often easy to find at pharmacies and grocery stores, and they’re often a helpful first step. If your result is positive, following up with a healthcare provider can give you confirmation and space to ask any medical questions you may have.


Whether you’ve already taken a test or are thinking about taking one soon, you don’t have to process this alone. Speaking with a care expert at Avail can help you sort through your thoughts, name what you’re feeling, and consider what comes next.

Step Three: Explore Your Options

If your test is positive, you have options. There’s no need to make any big decisions today, and you don’t have to face this on your own. Your thoughts and feelings are valid, and you deserve the time and space to think through what’s best for you.


It’s okay to feel unsure or overwhelmed. Carving out even a few moments to slow down and reflect can help you connect with what’s most important to you. You might be thinking about your values, your relationships, your future, or simply how to make sense of what you're feeling right now.


At Avail, you’ll find a supportive space to talk things through with someone who listens. Our care experts are trained to help you explore your options without pressure or judgment.


This moment doesn’t define you. You are more than this decision, and support is available as you take the next step that feels right for you.

Step Four: Connect with a Care Expert at Avail

An unintended pregnancy can bring up a wide range of intense, complex, and changing emotions. But you don’t have to face them all on your own.


Having a safe space to talk can make a meaningful difference. Our care experts are here to listen with compassion and to walk with you at your pace. Whether you’re sorting through your emotions, asking questions, looking for resources, or simply needing someone to be present with you, we are here.


You don’t have to sort through this moment on your own. Support at Avail is always private and compassionate. You can meet with a care expert over Zoom or talk with us through text.

Step Five: Take Your Next Steps with Confidence

Feeling uncertain doesn’t mean you’re stuck. Clarity comes with time, and small steps can help you move forward with confidence. You’re not expected to have everything figured out today, and support is available as you process what comes next.


Talking through your thoughts with someone who listens can provide the space you need to process without pressure. If you have questions, you can take your time exploring your options in a way that feels right for you.


You don’t have to navigate this alone. Compassionate support, practical resources, and a safe space to process are available. Schedule time to connect with a care expert, completely free.

You Are Not Alone

No matter what you’re facing, you don’t have to go through it alone. Avail is a confidential, judgment-free space where you can process your emotions, ask questions, and explore your options with support.


You are not a burden. Your voice matters. And your next step can start here.

Talk with a Care Expert Learn More

 

Avail NYC exists to be a safe haven for women and men facing an unexpected pregnancy or seeking support after an abortion. We are not a medical provider.

 

Other Articles
What to Do When You Find Out You’re Pregnant
By Avail Staff Team October 25, 2025
Finding out you’re pregnant can feel overwhelming. Learn the next steps after finding out you're pregnant and how to access confidential, judgment-free support.
how to make a decision for unplanned pregnancy
By Avail Staff Team June 14, 2025
Discover calm, confidential support as you explore options for an unplanned pregnancy.
Not Ready to Be Pregnant? Bad time to be pregnant? Explore your options
By Avail Staff Team June 7, 2025
Explore your pregnancy options and learn how to get support as you consider what’s next.
Who Should I Talk to About My Unexpected Pregnancy
By Avail Staff Team April 12, 2025
Find support when you’re unsure who to talk to about your pregnancy experience.
Show More

ABOUT AVAIL

Avail provides free, compassionate support for women and men navigating unexpected pregnancies or seeking support after an abortion. Our trained care experts offer a safe, confidential space online or in-person to process emotions and explore options. Equipping clients with personalized coping strategies and resources, we empower them to move forward with confidence at their own pace. Avail is not a medical provider. To learn more or meet with a care expert, visit availnyc.org.
Learn more