Legally, you alone have control over the pregnancy path you choose. If you are unexpectedly pregnant and want to learn more about alternative options to abortion, read this blog to understand how to make an adoption plan or choose to parent.
Parenting
If you did not see yourself becoming a parent or adding to your family before, it may be worth considering now. Many women keep their pregnancies and go on to find fulfillment in parenthood.
However, while it comes with its own set of rewards, parenting also comes with unique challenges that you must be realistic about. Use these questions to help evaluate if parenting is the right option for you:
- Support networks – Do I have the support system I need? Do I have family, friends, or community organizations that could help provide childcare or help if or when I need it?
- Living situation – Do I have a safe and stable place to live with a baby, especially when they’re a newborn?
- Education and career – How would choosing parenthood affect my long-term goals and financial future? How can I continue to further my education or work towards career goals even after having a baby?
You do not need to have all the answers right now. Whether parenting alone or with a partner, there are many programs to support women with unexpected pregnancies.
Adoption
Adoption may be worth considering if you want to continue your pregnancy but cannot parent the child. Adoption agencies help birthmothers design adoption plans that suit their individual needs and levels of comfort.
Here are some different adoption types you can consider to decide what’s best for you:
- Open Adoption– You build a relationship with your child and your chosen adoptive family. Open adoption makes up the majority of adoptions today.
- Closed Adoption– You do not have contact with your child or adoptive family, and the courts seal details about you and the adoption.
- Semi-Open Adoption– You communicate through the adoption agency of your choice to exchange non-identifying information with the adoptive parents.
Although most adoptions in the US are open, there are different levels of confidentiality to match your comfort levels. Adoption agencies also often assist with pregnancy/birth medical costs and living expenses.
Next Steps
If you want to explore your options in more detail, we offer free consultations at Hope Pregnancy Resource Center. In a safe, supportive environment, you can ask questions, get information, and connect to local resources suited for your pregnancy goals (parenting classes, referrals for reputable adoption agencies, etc.)
Contact us today to make an appointment!
