Often, financial challenges are one of the primary reasons people feel overwhelmed by an unplanned pregnancy. We hear horror stories about hospital bills, housing vulnerability, unpaid maternity leave, and more. It seems impossible to have a child before you’re financially “ready.” 

At times, women want to parent, but end up considering other options (such as abortion) out of a sense of necessity. If you want to have your baby, you should be fully empowered to make that choice. 

And we have good news! If you’re facing an unintended pregnancy, there are practical steps you can take to prepare financially and access support before the baby arrives. We’re going to get into those shortly, but before we do, start by acknowledging and honoring your feelings toward this pregnancy.

It’s okay to feel overwhelmed and scared; it’s also okay to feel excited and hopeful. Feel what you feel, but you don’t have to let your feelings be in the driver’s seat. Acknowledge them, give them space, and then take control. You are brave and capable of navigating an unplanned pregnancy with confidence and resilience.

1. Assess Your Current Financial Situation

Start by taking a clear look at your finances. If you know someone who’s good with numbers, ask them to help you. List your income sources, monthly expenses, debts, and savings. Understanding where you stand is the best place to start. This will help you identify areas where you can cut back or reallocate funds to support upcoming needs.

2. Create a New Budget

Pregnancy and parenthood come with new expenses—medical bills, baby supplies, and possibly changes in housing or transportation. Adjust your budget to prioritize essentials, such as prenatal care, healthy food, and savings for medical delivery costs. (Also, here’s one budgeting template from She Might that may be helpful.) Use free budgeting apps or spreadsheets to track your spending and stay on course.

3. Build an Emergency Fund

If you don’t already have one, try to start building an emergency fund. Ideally, you should aim for at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses, if possible. Even small, regular contributions can add up over time and provide a safety net for unexpected costs.

4. Review Health Insurance Coverage

Contact your health insurance provider to understand your coverage for prenatal care, delivery, and pediatric visits. If you’re uninsured or underinsured, research government programs like Medicaid or CHIP, which may offer support for pregnant women and children.

If you are pregnant in the state of Massachusetts, you are immediately eligible to apply for MassHealth, even if a previous application has been rejected. You are also eligible for coverage up to 12 months postpartum if you are an individual with income up to 200% of the FPL. 

The Family Health Center of Worcester is equipped to offer you in-person support navigating the health insurance process. Their Insurance Navigators include a team of bilingual/bicultural Health Benefits Advisors who provide individual counseling sessions to anyone who needs help with a health insurance application. Learn more about their hours and services on their website.

5. Explore Government and Community Resources

If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, Clearway Clinic is your first step. All our services are completely free, and we don’t require health insurance to access our services. At Clearway, you’ll receive a free pregnancy test, STI test, and ultrasound. Your pregnancy confirmation ultrasound will determine if there is a viable intrauterine pregnancy and how far along you are. This information is essential for your continuum of care. 

Additionally, you’ll get to meet with a patient advocate who will work with you to identify community resources for those facing unplanned pregnancy. Whether you’re looking for food assistance, housing support, employment resources, educational rights, or something else, talk to your advocate. Local nonprofits, government assistance, and faith-based organizations are here for you.

6. Plan for Maternity and Paternity Leave

If you’re currently employed, review your employer’s policies on maternity and paternity leave. Find out if you’re eligible for paid or unpaid leave, and how much time you can take off. If you’re self-employed or work hourly, start saving now to cover any gaps in income during your recovery and bonding time.

You can also ask your Clearway advocate about resources in the community that provide free baby supplies. Some churches and nonprofits even throw baby showers for local moms facing unplanned pregnancy! These can cover all your baby-related material needs, from carseats to cribs to diapers. Unplanned parenthood is not the end. There are people ready and waiting to show you love and support. 

7. Minimize Unnecessary Expenses

This might be a hard part, but one of the best ways to save money is to avoid unnecessary spending. If you’re someone who doesn’t usually keep track of your spending, it can be a shock to see how much money you spend on dining out, entertainment subscriptions, fashion trends, or luxury items. Identify non-essential expenses that can be reduced or eliminated. Redirect these funds toward baby essentials, medical bills, or your emergency fund. It might be hard at first, but remember, it’s not forever! This baby will bring you a different type of joy, and it will be worth it. 

8. Shop Smart for Baby Supplies

Babies need a lot, but not everything has to be brand new. Consider gently used items from friends, family, or local parenting groups. Prioritize safety and quality for items like car seats and cribs, but save on clothing, toys, and other gear. Again, reach out if you need support accessing these items.

9. Research & Learn from Others

You are not the first person to feel financially unprepared for an unplanned pregnancy, and you certainly won’t be the last! Talk to friends and family, research online, talk to a financial counselor if possible. Glean from the wisdom of those who’ve walked this path before you. 

She Might is an online hub for various resources related to unplanned pregnancy, including financial assistance, maternity leave, childcare, scholarships for moms, and more! Start by reading a few of their articles. Our website also has a Pregnancy Resources page listing various support services local to MA. If you feel overwhelmed, take a deep breath. You can do this! And once you’ve done it, you can help others on their journey as well. Keep moving forward. 

10. Communicate with Your Support System

Don’t be afraid to lean on your support network. Family and friends may be able to help with childcare, baby supplies, or emotional support. Open communication can ease the burden and help you feel less alone.

Maybe you live far from family, or you don’t feel you have a support network that will help. In that case, Clearway’s Community of Care is here for you. We want you to feel empowered and equipped in this new phase of life. Schedule a resource appointment to get started. 

Facing an unplanned pregnancy is challenging, but with proactive financial planning, you can create a stable foundation for your family’s future. Remember, you’re not alone—resources and support are available to help you every step of the way. Be brave! Take it one day at a time. 

Start by scheduling your free pregnancy confirmation appointment at Clearway Clinic. We’re here for you!