Promoting Positive Pregnancy Reactions

(From the October - December 2021 issue of VOX)

Finding out they are pregnant should be one of the most joyous occasions for women. However this isn’t always the case. Gianna Care has worked in the area of crisis pregnancy for 10 years. The organisation has insight into the impact negative reactions can have. “Pregnancy in the first trimester can be especially difficult,” Gianna Care’s director Carolyn O’Meara said. “There are huge changes happening, both physically and emotionally, and women need support at this time. If a woman has found herself pregnant in not so ‘perfect’ circumstances or this news is completely unexpected, this can cause a lot of anxiety.”

Many women have resonated with Gianna Care’s new campaign promoting positive pregnancy reactions. “Women have agreed unanimously that pregnancy seems to be a particular occasion where people feel they can comment in whatever way they want. Crude and unwanted remarks are often made. For some these comments will have little or no effect. For others, who perhaps already feel vulnerable or upset about the news they are pregnant, this can be especially hurtful. Not everyone’s circumstances are perfect; not everyone is ready to become a mother. Support is the key.”

Gianna Care offers services such as counselling, practical support, emotional support, financial assistance and much more.

“We know that even one supportive person in a woman’s life can have a huge impact and enable her to cope,” Carolyn added. “We have met women who have considered or had an abortion because they cannot face the negativity and judgemental attitude of others around them towards their pregnancy. We are passionate about starting this conversation. We need to promote positive pregnancy reactions and make people aware that their reaction matters.”

Find out more at www.giannacare.ie.