Pregnancy & Parenting

Unplanned pregnancies often bring medical problems and cause emotional upset and abrupt change of lifestyle. If you or someone you know is pregnant and uncertain about what to do, there are resources available. This is a difficult time. Remember, there are options. It is important to get a pregnancy test as early as possible and discuss it with your family or someone you trust, and to get medical attention right away.

Although your pregnancy isn't apparent to anyone in the early stages and may not seem real to you, it is important to know whether you are pregnant. Home pregnancy tests are not always accurate. The options available to you should be discussed with a counselor or health professional. Contact one of the family services agencies listed in this section, or inquire through local mental and medical health centers. Also, the earlier you know, the earlier you can begin to take care of yourself, especially by avoiding alcohol, drugs, caffeine and cigarettes.

Warning: Drinking or using drugs during pregnancy is extremely dangerous to the unborn baby. The effects of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome such as mental retardation, physical deformities, brain damage and learning disabilities are permanent.

Cape Cod Children’s Place www.capecodchildrensplace.org 508-240-3310

(free classes, groups, consultations)

Healthy Start 800-531-2229

Martha's Vineyard Family Center 508-693-7900

Martha’s Vineyard Family Planning 508-693-1208

WIC Program www.mass.gov/dph/fch/wic.htm 800-942-2445

WIC Martha's Vineyard 508-693-1299