From Fear to Hope: How Women Faced an Unexpected Pregnancy
When the first signs of pregnancy appear, many women feel overwhelmed, especially if the pregnancy is unexpected. Badirat, an international student from a Muslim background, feared the shame and judgment she might face from her family and community. At first, she didn’t know what to do and considered abortion. But with support from the Pregnancy Care Centre Toronto, she found clarity and courage. She chose to continue her pregnancy with her partner, and over time, her family welcomed her decision. Stories like Badirat’s, along with those of Janet and Abigail, remind us that no one should face the early stages of pregnancy alone, especially when the pressure feels unbearable. Compassionate support can transform fear into strength, and isolation into community.
“I had a lot of fear in raising a child all by myself, something I’ve never done… and then I also had fear the issue of real fear, what are my family going to think of all this…my feelings and thoughts were everywhere… that’s why I was considering abortion.”
– Janet, PCC Toronto Alumni
“In my culture, it is so shameful to be pregnant and not married. When I found out I was pregnant I told my family. My family was telling me to have an abortion, but I didn’t know if I wanted to. Everyone was worried about the shame I would bring on the family…Because of that, my family kicked me out my home. I was so shocked. Everyone dropped me when I needed them the most. I was so emotional and needed a place to understand how I was feeling. I needed people to listen to me and help me understand my choices, so I went to the Pregnancy Care Centre [Toronto]. When I calmed down, I realized that I wanted to have this baby. I thought it was the right thing to do, even though it was against what my family wanted for me. The PCC became a new family for me. They helped me plan and think through the next steps. They took time to listen to what I wanted and helped me sort out the pros & cons of each potential decision. I knew I wasn’t alone – they were there to help me.”
– Abigail, PCC Toronto Alumni
If you know someone who is in an unexpected pregnancy, let them know that they are not alone.
There is help in Toronto for individuals facing an unexpected pregnancy. Others have been there and gotten help.
Talk to someone
Call or Text Us Now 416-229-2607
Connect & speak with a support
worker
Accessible Locations Across the GTA
Downtown Toronto
(Queen’s Park East & Wellesley West)
Richmond Hill
(Bayview & Elgin Mills East)
Brampton
(Hurontario St. & Steeles Ave. E)
You’re not alone.
Get in touch with us today.
Phone number:
“I didn’t know where to turn. That’s pretty much how I ended up coming to the Pregnancy Care Centre. I needed to speak about my emotions and my feelings, what I would do…I really had absolutely no idea.”
