How to Find Reliable Information & Resources
Going online can be a great way to find information and connect with others, among other things. But there are also dangers that come with using the web. For example, it’s easy for someone to create a website and spread misinformation about all sorts of topics. In this section, we want to include some tips for evaluating information you find online.
If you’re visiting an online health site for the first time or downloading a new app, ask these five questions:
1. Who runs or created the site or app? Can you trust them?
2. What is the site or app promising or offering? Do its claims seem too good to be true?
3. When was its information written or reviewed? Is it up to date?
4. Where does the information come from? Is it based on scientific research?
5. Why does the site or app exist? Is it selling something?
For more tips, look at this worksheet to evaluate online resources you are exploring.
Financial Resources & Insurance
Talking openly and honestly about finances while being realistic about what you will need during pregnancy and to care for a baby is an important part of the decision making process.
When thinking about whether a pregnancy is right for you, finances and insurance are important, but are sometimes overlooked when making this decision. Whatever your current situation might be, the important thing is figuring out what is right for you and to be realistic about what you have and what you will need.
To help you get started, there are some common things to consider when thinking about your finances and insurance, both during and after a pregnancy. Some topics may not apply to you. Use the worksheet below to explore the financial and insurance considerations for a pregnancy.
Connecting with Other Women with SCI
Connecting with other women with SCI who are also making a decision or have already made a decision could be a support you need or want. We know support systems can be a key factor when you are trying to make a big decision, and pregnancy can be a really big one! While it’s important to evaluate the health information you find online for its trustworthiness, the web can be a great way to connect with others going through similar experiences.
Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram can allow you to connect with other women with SCI. There are also groups for SCI in specific places (often by state), like nonprofit organizations that serve people with SCI. They sometimes have Facebook pages or groups that have information about local in-person events. Twitter and Instagram use hashtags that you can follow, such as:
Other Hashtags that might be helpful
– #paraplegicmom
– #paraplegicmommy
– #wheelchairmom
– #wheelchairmommy
Dealing with Reactions of Others
When it comes to pregnancy, women with SCI often have to deal with the reactions of others. For example, some women may experience pressure to get pregnant, while others may experience pressure to not get pregnant. Along with pressure, women with SCI may have to deal with comments from family, friends, health care providers, and even strangers. These comments can be harmful or helpful and can affect a woman in several ways.
When you are in the process of making such an important decision, it can be hard to listen to yourself while others are weighing in, whether or not you asked for their opinion. Whatever your feelings might be, it’s important to understand how you feel and respond to the opinions of others in ways that are right for you, even if that is to not react at all. Taking time to consider how you feel can help you create strategies to manage what comes your way, leaving more time for you to focus on what is right for you and those who will share this decision with you.