So, you’re staring at those two little lines on the pregnancy test, and your brain is short-circuiting. Maybe you’re in total shock, maybe you’re already picking out baby names, or maybe (like me) you just sat there for an hour googling “WTF do I do now?”
First of all—breathe. You’re not alone. Plenty of women have been exactly where you are. An unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming, confusing, and even terrifying, but take a deep breath. While this might not have been part of your plan, it doesn’t mean your life is over. In fact, it might just be the beginning of something amazing—something you never expected but might turn out to be one of the most incredible journeys of your life.
Here are real, practical, and slightly chaotic tips to help you navigate this wild ride of Unplanned Pregnancy.
Feel All The Feelings (Yes, Even The Messy Ones)
You don’t have to have it all figured out today. You might feel excitement, terror, joy, nausea (hello, morning sickness!), and everything in between. That’s normal.
There’s no right way to process an unplanned pregnancy, so give yourself permission to feel whatever comes up. Journal, scream into a pillow, cry in the shower—whatever works. Just know that you’re not failing for having mixed emotions. An unplanned pregnancy can bring a roller coaster of feelings, and that’s okay. Take it one step at a time, and remember—you’re stronger than you think.
A Rollercoaster Of Emotions Is Totally Okay
One moment you might be hopeful about the future, and the next, you might feel completely overwhelmed. That’s just how big life changes work. You’re not alone in this—so many people have been exactly where you are. Instead of fighting your feelings, acknowledge them. Write them down, talk to a trusted friend, or simply sit with them.
Find Healthy Ways To Cope
Dealing with emotions doesn’t mean suppressing them—it means finding ways to release them in a way that helps you. If you’re feeling anxious about an unplanned pregnancy, try deep breathing or meditation. If sadness hits, a long walk or talking to someone who understands might help. Remember, what works for one person might not work for another, so explore what makes you feel most at ease during this journey.
Your Feelings Don’t Define Your Decision
Just because you’re feeling scared or uncertain right now doesn’t mean you’ll feel that way forever. Emotions come and go, but your ability to make the right choice for yourself remains. Let yourself feel everything, but don’t let temporary emotions dictate your long-term decisions.
Get Real About Your Finances (It’s Not As Scary As It Sounds)
Babies are expensive (yes, even the tiny socks cost a fortune). But don’t panic—there are so many ways to make this work financially. The key is to get proactive, not paralyzed. A little planning now can save you a lot of stress later.
Start A Budget (Yes, You Need One)
A budget isn’t about restricting yourself—it’s about giving yourself control. Knowing exactly how much money is coming in and going out will help you make smarter decisions. Start by tracking your expenses for a month to see where your money is actually going. Then, create a simple budget that prioritizes essentials and baby expenses.
Look Into Grants and Financial Aid
There’s a lot of financial help available, especially for single moms. Many states offer assistance programs, from childcare grants to housing support. If you’re in Arkansas, for example, you might qualify for childcare subsidies, WIC benefits, or educational grants. Don’t be afraid to ask for help—these resources exist to support you.
Consider Side Hustles (Remote Jobs Are Lifesavers)
If you need extra income, a side hustle can be a game-changer. The best part? There are plenty of remote options that let you work from home while caring for your baby. Some ideas include:-
✔ Freelancing (writing, graphic design, virtual assistance)
✔ Selling handmade products (Etsy, Facebook Marketplace)
✔ Online tutoring (especially if you have teaching experience)
✔ Customer service roles (many companies offer remote positions)
✔ Reselling unused items (declutter your home and make money at the same time!)
Cut Unnecessary Expenses (Time For A Reality Check)
Do you really need three streaming services? What about that gym membership you never use? Look at your monthly expenses and see where you can trim the fat. Cancel unused subscriptions, cook more meals at home, and find free entertainment options. Every dollar you save can go toward baby essentials.
Plan For Unexpected Costs
Babies come with surprise expenses—hospital bills, extra diapers, emergency babysitters. Start setting aside even a small emergency fund now. Even if it’s just $10 a week, it adds up over time and gives you a safety net when you need it.
Money Stress Is Real, But You’ve Got This
Finances can feel overwhelming at first, but once you start taking small steps, things get easier. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. Build a plan, use the resources available, and remind yourself: You are capable of handling this.
Find Your People (Because You’re Gonna Need Them)
Pregnancy is a wild ride, and trust me—you don’t want to go through it solo. Your body is changing in ways you never expected (hello, swollen feet and sudden aversion to your once-favorite foods), your emotions are all over the place, and don’t even get me started on the unsolicited advice from random strangers. This is exactly why you need your people.
Think of it like assembling your personal dream team. You need:
- The friend who keeps it real — the one who doesn’t sugarcoat things but also won’t let you spiral. She’s the person who listens to your latest bizarre pregnancy symptom and reassures you that no, you’re not the first person to Google “Can I survive on just mac and cheese for nine months?”
- The mom group (online or IRL) — because sometimes, you just need to hear from people who are going through it right now. These are the folks who understand why you’re up at 3 AM researching bassinet safety standards and can validate that your sudden obsession with reorganizing your entire kitchen is, in fact, totally normal. (P.S. If you’re looking for a supportive money-smart community, join our Penny Calling Penny Facebook Group — because talking money with moms who get it makes all the difference.)
- The family member who just gets it — maybe it’s your mom, your sister, or your cool aunt who had five kids and lived to tell the tale. This is the person who shows up with snacks, offers to fold your laundry, and doesn’t expect you to entertain them.
- The partner who steps up — if you have a significant other, this is their time to shine. Foot rubs? Yes, please. Midnight snack runs? Non-negotiable. Helping you roll out of bed when you feel like a beached whale? Absolutely.
- A therapist (because mental health matters too) — pregnancy is a huge emotional shift, and sometimes, talking to a professional can help you process all the changes. If you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or just need someone to vent to who won’t say, “It’s just the hormones,” a therapist can be a game-changer.
But here’s the thing—your support system isn’t just about emotional and physical help. It’s also about financial support. Because let’s be real, pregnancy and parenting come with a price tag, and stressing over money on top of everything else? Not ideal. This is why having a financial plan and a network to help you navigate money matters is so important.
- Got a friend who’s a budgeting queen? Learn from her.
- Have a relative who loves talking about smart money moves? Pick their brain.
- Need to earn extra income from home? There are plenty of ways to make money without a degree, from freelancing to starting a side hustle. (Check out our article on madass career options — because yes, you can make money without a fancy diploma.)
Having a solid support system doesn’t just make pregnancy easier—it makes it feel less isolating. Because when you find yourself staring at your feet (or what used to be your feet) and thinking, Is it normal for them to look like overinflated balloons?, you’ll want someone to text who won’t just say “probably,” but will also send you memes, remind you to elevate and hydrate, and maybe even show up with ice cream.
So go ahead, build your village. Emotionally, physically, and financially—you’re growing a human, and you deserve all the support you can get. And if you want a place where moms talk about money, saving hacks, and real-life struggles, join us over in the Penny Calling Penny Facebook Group — we’ve got your back!
Get To Know Your Resources (There’s More Help Than You Think)
Here’s the thing—being a mom is expensive. And being a single mom? That’s a whole other level of financial stress. But before you start panicking over the cost of diapers, formula, or childcare, take a deep breath—because help is out there. A lot of it. You just have to know where to look.
Did you know there are actual grants to help single moms? And that some states offer free childcare assistance? Yup. There are programs, nonprofits, and government aid designed to make life a little easier for moms like you. The tricky part? A lot of these resources aren’t exactly advertised on billboards. That’s why doing a little digging can seriously pay off. Here are a few places to start:
- Healthcare assistance: Programs like Medicaid and CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program) provide free or low-cost healthcare for moms and kids. Even if you don’t qualify for Medicaid, your child might be eligible for CHIP—so it’s worth checking out.
- Food assistance: If grocery shopping is making your wallet cry, look into WIC (Women, Infants, and Children). It helps pregnant women, new moms, and kids under five with free nutritious food, formula, and even breastfeeding support.
- Childcare help: Some states offer subsidized child care programs, and there are also local organizations that provide free or low-cost daycare options for single moms. Because let’s be real—childcare costs more than rent in some places.
- Local nonprofits: There are tons of community-based groups that help with essentials like diapers, formula, baby gear, and even rent or utility assistance. A quick search for “single mom resources near me” could connect you to serious help.
- Housing assistance: Programs like Section 8 housing vouchers and emergency rental assistance can be lifesavers if you’re struggling to keep up with housing costs.
And if you’re feeling overwhelmed by all this information, don’t worry—you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. That’s exactly why I created these guides to help single moms navigate financial survival:-
- How to Budget as a Single Mom – Because managing money on one income isn’t easy, but it is possible.
- Surviving and Thriving in Single Motherhood – A real-talk guide on making it work, financially and emotionally.
At the end of the day, you are not in this alone. There’s so much help out there—you just have to claim it. And if you need a supportive space to talk about money, ask questions, or just vent about the cost of baby wipes, join our Penny Calling Penny Facebook Group. Because finding the right resources is great—but finding a community? Even better.
Make A Game Plan For Work and Childcare
Juggling a job and a baby? It’s no joke. But with a little planning (and a lot of coffee), you can make it work. Here’s how to set yourself up for success—before the sleepless nights hit.
HR: Your New Best Friend
Before you start making assumptions about your maternity leave, have “the talk” with HR. You need the details on:
- Maternity leave policies – How much time do you get, and is it paid?
- FMLA (aka job security) – If you qualify, you get up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave.
- Flexibility options – Can you work from home? Adjust your hours? Ease back in after leave?
- Childcare perks – Some companies actually help cover daycare costs—always worth asking!
Childcare: The Sooner, The Better
Finding affordable childcare can feel like trying to get concert tickets on release day—stressful, competitive, and full of waitlists. That’s why you should start researching NOW.
- Subsidized daycare programs – Many states offer low-cost childcare for single moms based on income.
- Employer discounts – Some jobs partner with daycare centers for reduced rates.
- Local grants & financial aid – If you’re in Arkansas, check out childcare grants. Every little bit helps!
Want More Flexibility? Go Remote.
If the thought of rushing out the door at 6 AM with a half-dressed baby sounds impossible, consider working from home. Remote jobs = fewer daycare costs + more time with your little one. Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered—check out this list of remote jobs for single moms.
You Don’t Have To Figure This Out Alone
Work and childcare are huge decisions, but you don’t have to make them solo. Need advice? Support? A place to vent when daycare costs make you want to scream? Join our Penny Calling Penny Facebook Group — because this mom’s life is easier when we do it together.
Locking Down A Place To Call Home (Even If You’re Not “Settled” Yet)
Still crashing with roommates? Living with family? Panicking because your current setup won’t cut it with a baby on the way? Yep, totally normal. I’ve been there—staring at my bank account, scrolling through rental listings, and wondering how the heck I was going to afford a place on my own. But here’s the good news: You do have options, and with a little planning (and maybe some creative thinking), you can find a stable home that works for you and your little one.
How I Navigated Housing As A Single Mom (Without Losing My Mind)
When I found out I was pregnant, I was renting a tiny apartment with two roommates. It worked fine for my pre-mom life, but imagining a crying newborn in that setup? Absolutely not. So I started looking at my options:-
(1) Moving in with family: A short-term fix, but it wasn’t sustainable (love my parents, but I needed my own space).
(2) Co-living with another single mom: Game-changer. I found another mom in a similar situation, and we split rent on a two-bedroom. It cut my costs in half and gave me built-in support.
(3) Low-income housing assistance: I looked into rental assistance programs—some states offer Section 8 vouchers or subsidized housing for single parents. It’s not an instant fix (waitlists can be long), but if you qualify, it’s worth getting your name on the list ASAP.
(4) Homeownership?! Believe it or not, I even considered buying a small home. Programs like FHA loans and first-time homebuyer grants can make it possible to buy with a much lower down payment than you think. (If you’re curious, here’s a deep dive: Is It a Good Time to Buy a Home?)
Making Your Space Feel Like Home (Even On A Tight Budget)
No matter where you land, creating a homey space doesn’t have to cost a fortune. When I finally moved into my own place, I was working with a super tight budget—but I still found ways to make it feel cozy.
- Secondhand everything. Facebook Marketplace, thrift stores, and Buy Nothing groups saved me hundreds of furniture.
- DIY home upgrades. I made small, budget-friendly changes—like painting cabinets and adding peel-and-stick wallpaper—to make the space feel like mine. (Need ideas? These budget-friendly home bar ideas helped me create a little “me time” corner!)
- Home improvement loans. If you already have a place but need to make it more baby-friendly, look into home improvement loans. Some offer super low interest rates for single moms.
You Don’t Have To Do This Alone
Housing stress is real, but you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, need advice, or just want to swap stories with other moms in the same boat, join our Penny Calling Penny Facebook Group. Because finding a stable home is important—but having a supportive community? Even better.
Think About Your Birth Plan (and Be Ready To Pivot)
Some moms envision a peaceful home birth with fairy lights and meditation music. Others are just counting down the minutes until they can get an epidural. Spoiler alert: Both are totally valid! The key is to make a birth plan that fits you—while also knowing that birth doesn’t always go as planned (and that’s okay).
My Birth Plan v/s Reality (aka Why Flexibility Is Key)
I had this whole vision of a calm, medication-free birth. I read every natural birth book, took the classes, and told myself I got this. But guess what? At 6 cm, I was begging for the drugs like my life depended on it. And you know what? No regrets.
The truth is, labor is unpredictable. You might want an epidural and end up delivering so fast there’s no time. You might plan for a C-section and suddenly go into labor early. That’s why the best birth plan is one that guides you—but doesn’t stress you out if things change.
Things To Consider When Making Your Birth Plan
- Pain management: Want to go natural? Cool. Want the epidural the second you walk in? Also cool. Just know your options.
- Delivery location: Hospital, birth center, home birth—where do you feel safest?
- Support system: Who’s in the room with you? A partner? A doula? Your best friend?
- Plan B (because things happen): If your ideal plan doesn’t work out, what’s your backup?
- Post-birth care: Do you want immediate skin-to-skin? Delayed cord clamping? These are all things to think about ahead of time.
Birth Plans and Single Motherhood: Finding Support
Going through pregnancy without a traditional partner can feel overwhelming, but trust me—you are not alone. Whether it’s a doula, a trusted friend, or even an online community, having people in your corner makes all the difference. Need some encouragement? Check out Single Motherhood: The Real Talk — because you deserve to feel confident and supported every step of the way.
And if you need a place to talk about birth plans, labor fears, or just vent about how uncomfortable the third trimester is? Join our Penny Calling Penny Facebook Group — because having a village (even an online one) makes all the difference.
Stack Your Emergency Fund (Even If It’s Just A Few Bucks At A Time)
How I Started My Emergency Fund With Almost Nothing
When I first became a single mom, my emergency fund was basically whatever loose change I found in my couch cushions. I felt like saving money was impossible—bills, diapers, and rent took up everything. But here’s what I learned:-
- Small is better than nothing. I started with just $5 a week. It felt ridiculous at first, but over time, it actually added up.
- Automate when you can. Even setting up $10 per paycheck to go into a separate savings account meant I didn’t have to think about it.
- Round-ups work. Some banks/apps round up your purchases and stash the extra change in savings. I barely noticed, but it made a difference!
Need More Income? Here’s How To Make It Happen
If saving money feels impossible right now, increasing your income is another way to get ahead. Thankfully, there are tons of ways for single moms to make extra cash, even with a packed schedule.
- Remote work gigs – Flexible, work-from-home jobs can be a lifesaver.
- Side hustles that actually pay – Babysitting, virtual assistance, or even flipping thrift store finds can bring in extra cash.
- Grants and assistance programs – If you need immediate help, look into grants for single moms.
A Little Effort Now = Less Stress Later
Even if you can only save a few bucks here and there, in the future you will thank you. And if you need help, advice, or just want to celebrate a tiny savings win, join our Penny Calling Penny Facebook Group — because managing money is easier when you’ve got a team cheering you on.
Postpartum Prep: Because It’s A Whole Thing
Everyone focuses on pregnancy and labor, but what about after? No one really warns you that postpartum recovery is basically a second marathon—except instead of running, you’re sore, exhausted, and trying to keep a tiny human alive. The good news? A little prep now can make those first few weeks way easier.
The Postpartum Survival Kit (Trust Me, You’ll Need It)
Here’s what I wish someone had handed me before I gave birth:-
- Mesh underwear. Hospital ones are great, but stock up on extras. You’ll be leaking from everywhere—glamorous, I know.
- Nipple cream. Breastfeeding? This will save you. Chafing is real.
- Padsicles. (Yes, it’s a thing.) Freeze some pads with aloe and witch hazel for pain relief.
- Easy meals. Cooking? Not happening. Stock your freezer with microwaveable meals or have snacks everywhere.
- A support system. Whether it’s family, friends, or an online group, you’ll need people.
Postpartum Mental Health: Let’s Talk About It
Everyone checks on the baby, but who’s checking on you? Postpartum depression (PPD) is real, and it’s not just the “baby blues.” I remember sitting in my apartment, baby in my arms, feeling like I was failing—like I should be happier but wasn’t. If you feel like that? You are not alone, and help is out there.
- Therapy & support groups – Talking to someone helps. Period.
- Online communities – Our Penny Calling Penny Facebook Group is a safe space to connect with other moms who get it.
- Financial stress can make it worse – If money is tight, check out Single Motherhood: The Real Talk for resources to lighten the load.
You’ve Got This (and We’ve Got You)
Postpartum is messy, emotional, and hard. But you’re not doing it alone. Prep what you can now, lean on your support system, and most importantly—give yourself grace. You’re healing, adjusting, and doing an amazing job.
You Are Stronger Than You Think
I won’t sugarcoat it—this might not have been in your five-year plan. Maybe you had dreams of traveling, building your career, or just figuring life out before kids entered the picture. Or maybe you thought you’d be doing this with a partner, someone to share the late nights, the doctor’s appointments, and the overwhelming responsibility.
But here you are. Maybe scared. Maybe exhausted. Maybe wondering how you’re supposed to do this alone.
I know that feeling because I’ve lived it.
When Everything Feels Too Big, Take It One Step At A Time
I remember the moment it really hit me—I was going to be a single mom. I sat on my bed, staring at my bank account, at the pregnancy test, at the future I thought I was supposed to have. And then I broke down.
Not just a few tears—I mean gut-wrenching, “I can’t do this” sobbing.
Because how was I supposed to raise a child when I barely felt like I had my own life together? Who was going to help me? How would I afford everything? What if I wasn’t enough?
The fear was so loud, it drowned everything else out.
But here’s what I wish I could go back and tell myself in that moment:-
- You don’t have to have all the answers right now. You just have to take the next step.
- You are capable of figuring things out, even when it feels impossible.
- You are not alone, even if it feels like you are.
You’ll Find Strength In Places You Never Expected
At first, I thought I had to do it all by myself. I didn’t want to ask for help. I didn’t want to admit I was struggling. But the truth is, no one is meant to do this alone.
I found support in places I never expected:-
- Other single moms. Online communities, support groups—women who had been exactly where I was, who reminded me it gets easier. (If you need a place like that, our Penny Calling Penny Facebook Group is full of moms who get it.)
- Financial resources I didn’t know existed. Government programs, side hustles, and budgeting tricks that kept me afloat. (Single Mom Budgeting 101 was a game-changer.)
- My own resilience. Every time I got through a hard day, I realized I was stronger than I thought.
And you will, too.
Need more support? Check out these resources:-
And if you’re already rocking the single mom life, drop your best survival tips in the comments—I’d love to hear them!
Final Thoughts On Navigating An Unplanned Pregnancy
An unplanned pregnancy can feel like a whirlwind of emotions—excitement, fear, uncertainty, and everything in between. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to have all the answers today. Give yourself grace, take it one step at a time, and lean on the people who support you.
No matter what path you choose, know that you are capable, resilient, and not alone. Life doesn’t always go according to plan, but sometimes, the unexpected turns lead to the most incredible journeys. Trust yourself, embrace the process, and remember—you’ve got this.
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FAQs
Oh, girl, I get it. The fear, the doubt, the endless “what ifs.” Here’s the thing—no one has all the answers upfront. But if you’re here, reading this, something in you is already leaning toward keeping your baby. Trust that instinct. You don’t have to have it all figured out today. Take it one step at a time.
I asked myself the same thing—more times than I can count. Money was tight, and the future felt overwhelming. But here’s what helped: breaking it down. There are resources out there—government programs, nonprofits, even local mom groups that help with baby essentials. If you’re a single mom dealing with an unplanned pregnancy, you may qualify for grants and financial aid. Check out these state-specific resources:-
- Grants for Single Moms in Arkansas
- Grants for Single Moms in North Carolina
- Grants for Single Moms in New Jersey
You don’t have to do this alone—help is out there.
Oh, trust me, they will have opinions. But here’s the thing: they’re not the ones raising this baby—you are. And guess what? People forget. The same ones whispering today will be asking for baby snuggles tomorrow. Live your life for you, not for their approval.
Listen, I won’t sugarcoat it—single parenting is tough. But it’s also possible. And honestly? It’s empowering. You’ll find strength you never knew you had. Build your support system, whether that’s family, friends, or online mom communities. And on the hard days? Just take it moment by moment. You’ve got this.
