|  Pregnancy
Although
most people regard birth as a joyous event, the experience
of pregnancy often creates unexpected feelings and challenges.
Regardless of whether a pregnancy is planned or unplanned,
wanted or not, both men and women may experience a wide range
of emotions - anxiety, fear, delight, embarrassment, excitement,
guilt, and doubt.
Signs and Symptoms
- Absence
of menstrual period
- Breast
tenderness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Change
in appetite
- Fatigue
Common Concerns and Background Information
Concern:
"My boyfriend and I were having sex last night, and the
condom broke. Is there anything I can do now?"
Information:
The Campus Health Service's Pharmacy offers several options
for Plan B "Emergency Contraception." Students may
take this if they have unprotected intercourse (due to rape,
method failure or lack of contraception) within the last 72
hours, ideally within the first 24, but it can be taken up
to 120 hrs after the unprotected intercourse. It may be purchased
over the counter if you are age 17 or older. There is also
a prescription Emergency Contraceptive that may have efficacy
for a longer time after sex. Discuss with your provider.
Concern:
"I think I may be pregnant. What should I do?"
Information:
Students can be directed to the Women's Health Clinic at Campus
Health, Planned Parenthood, a county health clinic, a private
physician or a women's clinic for testing and guidance. Early
diagnosis is valuable and encouraged. If the student is pregnant
and plans to birth and raise the baby, she should begin prenatal
care immediately.
Concern:
"I'm pregnant and in my first trimester. I feel nauseated
all the time and I'm having trouble staying awake in class
because I'm so tired."
Information:
Pregnant women tire easily, especially in the first and third
trimesters. Instructors may need to be flexible with a pregnant
student and make special arrangements to accommodate her needs.
If you are pregnant, or have delivered a baby and
cannot keep it, the "Safe Baby" program
will receive the baby and find a safe, permanent home. You
can stay anonymous and get help for the baby at www.tucsonsafebaby.org
or by calling (520) 872-7233.
When
in doubt, refer to:
Women's
Health Clinic, Campus Health Service
(520) 621-6512
We
Offer:
- Diagnostic
services and limited counseling
- Referrals
for prenatal care, abortion and adoption are available upon
request
|
