Fear of being found out by families often prevents a young woman from using pills. Fear of being seen as sexually assertive also prevents her from insisting her partner use protection. For many women, pregnancy is the result of rape. All want abortions, but not all can have them. Whatever the cause, it can be deeply troubling and worrisome when a woman realises she is pregnant.
Some women become suicidal.
Fear of disgrace, the partner's irresponsibility, financial hardship, an unreadiness for mothering and poor health are among the more pressing concerns. But the women's testimonies also show that moral support can greatly reduce the stress of an unplanned pregnancy and influence the ultimate decision. Contrary to myth, apart from rape cases, not all women want to end their pregnancies. But all want early counselling, understanding, the assurance of confidentiality, and information on the services available before it is too late. Some women need temporary foster care for their babies.