I'm Pregnant, So Now What?

This pregnancy may not be something you were expecting or even necessarily wanting to experience. Now, however, is a really important time to take good care of yourself and your baby. Even if you have not decided what you are going to do about your pregnancy, it is important to take care of your body. Pregnant women should discontinue usage of any alcohol, recreational drugs and tobacco products. Talking with a doctor or medical professional about any prescriptions, supplements, or over-the-counter medications that you are taking is also another important thing to do.

Making a decision about an unexpected pregnancy can be a very difficult and emotional experience. Whether you are looking at parenting, making an adoption plan, or terminating your pregnancy, there are no easy answers. However, you do have options! Finding out the facts about the options you are interested in prior to making such a big decision can be helpful to your decision making process.

Lutheran Social Service Pregnancy Services Social Workers can provide you with information, education and support regarding the options you would like to explore. With 100 + years of experience providing Pregnancy Services and support, you can be reassured that you will receive experienced, informative, unbiased supportive services. Lutheran Social Service Pregnancy Services Social Workers can also help you navigate through the process of making an adoption plan if this is already the option you have chosen.

Pregnancy Services Social Workers are available to you for as long, or as short, as you would like. Services are free, confidential and meetings can place where you feel most comfortable (i.e. LSS office, your home, a community setting…etc.). There is no obligation to make any one choice if you choose to receive services through Lutheran Social Service. Call Toll-Free: 1-888-205-3769 or email: pregnancy@lssmn.org to learn more or to schedule an appointment.

Prenatal Care

Prenatal care refers to the regular medical and nursing care recommended for women during pregnancy. Prenatal care is a type of preventative care. The goal of prenatal care is to provide regular medical check-ups that allow doctors or midwives the ability to treat and prevent potential health problems through the course of the pregnancy while promoting healthy lifestyles that benefit both parent(s) and child. It is very important that pregnant women begin prenatal care as soon as possible after they find out that they are pregnant. Receiving prenatal care is one of the best ways to ensure a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Medical Assistance for Pregnant Women

Minnesota offers two primary health care programs that may help pregnant women pay for past, current and future medical costs related to pregnancy and delivery for pregnant women and their newborns.

Medical Assistance
is Minnesota’s Medicaid program for low-income families, with higher income limits for pregnant women and children under the age of 2.

Minnesota Care
is a subsidized health insurance program for Minnesota families who no not have access to affordable health insurance coverage.

Pregnant women should apply as soon as possible after finding out they are pregnant. To apply, you will need to have your doctor or clinic confirm your pregnancy in writing.

Women, Infants and Children (WIC)
WIC is a federally funded supplemental nutritional program that is available to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and children from birth-age 5, who meet specific economic guidelines. WIC provides women and children with quality food, such as: milk, cheese, cereal, eggs, juice, peanut butter, and baby formula. WIC also provides information on nutrition and health, as well as referrals to other community resources.

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