COUNSELLING THE PATIENT WITH THE UNPLANNED PREGNANCY – THREE MAJOR COMPONENTS
Bearing in mind all the above difficulties, there are three major components to be considered in counselling a woman with an unplanned pregnancy, not necessarily in this order.
Giving accurate information about the options, procedures and relative risks so that the woman can make an informed decision. Despite the fact that abortion is a commonly carried out surgical procedure, it is often not openly discussed. A woman with an unplanned pregnancy may set out with very little accurate knowledge of her options. Much of the information available may be produced by radical pro- or anti-abortion groups carrying strongly emotional overtones. It is important that the woman receives accurate information before making a decision.
Helping the woman reach an understanding as to why she fell pregnant at this particular time. Sometimes this is related to a simple contraceptive failure or mistake (Hutchinson, 1992). She may need help in finding a suitable method of contraception and be given proper instructions as to how to use it. Sometimes the reason for the present pregnancy is more complex, to do with the woman’s emotional problems and attitudes to her sexuality. These may need to be understood before she can make use of any contraception offered. She may occasionally need further help from other agencies such as Social Services or psychotherapy.
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