“We include the husband, or boyfriend, or family, and we include their social history. We want to nurture their emotional health as well.”- Christine Kulle, Nurse Practitioner and Certified Midwife
Pregnant and unemployed in the San Francisco Bay Area? Unsure of the next steps? This helpful list of the first three things to do if pregnant while unemployed is designed to be an initial guide through this uncertain time. If pregnant while unemployed:
1. Verify the pregnancy and the gestational age
The first thing to do is confirm that, indeed, there is a pregnancy and determine how far along the pregnancy is. Trying to make decisions without this information is like trying to walk in the dark. Schedule a medical appointment online to obtain this information.
2. Discuss health and work concerns with a professional
Many women in this situation are concerned about how they will obtain a job and whether they will be physically able to do the work while pregnant. If there are concerns regarding Covid-19 exposure or how a former or new work environment (heavy lifting, chemicals, prolonged sitting/standing, etc.) can affect the pregnancy, talk to a Registered Nurse to get medical answers to many of these questions.
There is also the option to speak to a Patient Advocate or an Optimal Health Coach about legal and practical concerns. Specialists like this can inform women about the federal and state legal protections available once a new job is obtained. This may help women wondering how or when to inform an employer of the pregnancy or how to determine what the maternity and family leave options would be. For women currently unemployed with concerns about a housing situation, how to afford prenatal care, childbirth classes, or providing the basics for a child at this time, there are many community resources that can assist.
3. Work out a plan and obtain resources to support the plan
An Optimal Health Coach can work with women to create a customized plan. Such a plan could cover topics like prenatal care, childbirth and parenting classes, diapers, formula, basic baby gear, housing services, career and employment resources, in addition to local agencies and organizations that can meet each woman’s particular needs. Coaches can help women to identify supportive people in their lives. Help is available for effective communication skills, ways to make healthy and intentional decisions, planning for the future, creating a life vision, understanding herself, and leadership and job readiness skills.
Pregnant and unemployed in the San Francisco Bay Area? RealOptions Obria Medical Clinics provides compassionate, comprehensive, high-quality holistic health care and education to women, men, students, and families at all five fully-licensed community care clinics. Schedule a confidential appointment online or call RealOptions Obria Medical Clinics in Central San Jose - 408.978.9310, East San Jose - 408.272.5577, Oakland - 510.891.9998, Redwood City - 630.261.9115, or Union City - 510.487.4357.
