“I am pregnant and homeless. I don’t know what to do. Where should I start?”
As of a 2018 study done by the University of Chicago states, “Our findings suggest that many of the nearly 4.2 million adolescents and young adults in America who experience some type of homelessness during a 12-month period are pregnant or young parents.” Being homeless can be more stressful when a woman is alone and pregnant. It can be hard to know where to go for support. Fortunately, there are support networks ready to help those mothers and families.
Here are some ways women can manage pregnancy while homeless or while facing other stressful struggles.
I Need Support and Care
You are not alone. Homelessness, medical problems, and financial difficulties can feel like a serious burden. There is support for you and your baby. You can start off by addressing your most important needs.
Prenatal Care
Prenatal care is important because the special care helps nurture a healthy pregnancy and enhance a healthy livelihood for the baby. What exactly is prenatal care? Prenatal care helps reduce the risk of pregnancy complications.
Prenatal care visits cover your needs such as: getting you prenatal vitamins, providing STI/STD testing, screening for gestational diabetes, and more.
We offer mothers support for referrals to local doctors and we help clients get set-up with insurance support. Once with your doctor, you can begin to schedule your prenatal appointments!
Limited Obstetrical Ultrasound
We also offer Limited Obstetrical Ultrasounds. Limited Obstetrical Ultrasounds check for three things: the location of the baby, how far along the pregnancy is, and if the pregnancy is viable (likely to continue).
We provide Limited Obstetrical Ultrasounds after a positive pregnancy test. Clients are welcome to bring in a support person!
STI Testing
It is important to test and treat pregnant women for all STIs/STDs. Sexually Transmitted Infections that are left untreated can lead to more serious problems for both you and your unborn baby.
At Options for Women / River Falls we test for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, and HIV. Results are ready within one to three days. We offer off-site treatment for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis – all services are free. A doctor visit will help cover the full panel of STI/STD testing.
Housing
Options for Women offers support and referrals to help mothers and expecting families. We work closely with local organizations to help cover basic needs such as: housing, material assistance, vehicle maintenance and transportation, financial support, and more. We are here to help you get started!
Where Do I Start to Look for Help if I’m Homeless and Pregnant?
You have local support that wants to help you. Are you in River Falls or near Western-Wisconsin? We have various resources and referrals that can help you. If you need assistance or direction, visit us at Options for Women / River Falls. We offer resources and referrals for doctors, support networks, mom groups, and more.
Wondering how we can help? Call us at 715-425-8539 or text us at 715-864-4363 for support and answers. You can also schedule your free and confidential appointment online here.
