Dealing with an Unexpected Pregnancy

Dealing with an Unexpected Pregnancy

If you suspect you may be pregnant, see a doctor as soon as possible after you have missed a menstrual period.

An unplanned pregnancy can be very emotionally stressful. Ask for support from your friends, family, doctor, and community services. You are not alone.

While you decide whether to continue your pregnancy, it is important to stay healthy. Harm to the fetus in the early stages of development cannot be undone. Avoid drugs, alcohol, and cigarettes, keep yourself safe, and eat nutritious foods.


Emergency Contraception

If you have had unprotected intercourse within the past 5 days (120 hours) and do not wish to become pregnant, “morning-after” or emergency contraception pills are available over-the-counter from a pharmacy ($40-50), your nearest family planning clinic, family doctor or treatment centre.

The sooner you take the emergency contraception pill, the more effective it is. More information onemergency contraception.


Adoption Services

If you decide not to become a parent, one of your options is to place your baby with anadoption service.


Abortion Services

Abortion services in British Columbia are covered under the Medical Services Plan and are provided by hospitals or licensed clinics. To access abortion services, contact your family doctor, family planning clinic, or "Facts of Life Line"toll freeat 1-800-739-7367

Attempts to induce a miscarriage can threaten your life. Please see a doctor.


Help Phone Lines

Facts of Life Line
Toll-Free1-800-739-7367

Pregnancy Options Referral Service
Toll-Free1-888-875-3163

Locations

Services

News & Events

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Pay parking resumes March 4, 2022

Effective March 4, 2022, pay parking will resume at all Island Health sites that previously had pay parking in place.

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Caring for the Vulnerable

Caring for the Vulnerable

Healthcare professionals provide care in many settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools and people’s homes, but for those individuals who don’t have a fixed address and require care, some community health services staff go to them.

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People unveiling a truth and reconciliation plaque.

Island Health Magazine Fall 2021

Read articles on building resilience in children; how loneliness impacts health; tips and recipes for healthy to-go lunches; information about IBD and a feature about patient partners.

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