Facing an unplanned pregnancy? Read these articles to understand all your options & rights.
Navigating an unplanned pregnancy can be challenging and stressful. It is essential to understand that you are not alone, and there are many resources available. We put together the 11 articles that can help you understand the steps and choices available to you.
1. Early Signs & Symptoms of Pregnancy
There are many sings signs and symptoms of early pregnancy; however, the only accurate way to know if you are experiencing pregnancy is to take a test. Sometimes it is too early for accurate results; the most accurate time to test for pregnancy is about a week after a missed period. Here are the signs and symptoms common among women experiencing pregnancy even before a test can be accurately administered, like fatigue, nausea, and breast changes.
2. I’m Unexpectedly Pregnant. What Do I Do Now?
While rare, false positives are possible, if you think you are pregnant, you should consult with a doctor. When you do not plan for a pregnancy, you may be feeling a whirlwind of emotions.
It is important vital to take time to research and understand the next steps and all the available options, including parenting, adoption, and abortion.
Discover your next steps and options as an expectant parent.
3. Resources for Expecting and Birth Parents Looking to Place
If you are considering adoption, understanding the process and aspects is vital to make an informed decision. There are different types of adoption and adoption agencies to consider. Adoptions From The Heart is a Pro-Choice agency, so one of their social workers will educate you on all options, including abortion, adoption, and parenting. AFTH also promotes open adoption: where the birth parent takes an active role in their child’s life by remaining in contact and even having visits.
Choosing adoption is a big decision and one you do not need to make alone. Adoption agencies and lawyers can provide you with the resources, support, and answers you need. Learn more about the adoption process and your options.
4. I’m Pregnant and Addicted to Drugs. Can I Place My Child For Adoption?
Regardless of suffering from an addiction, you are still worthy of exploring your options, like any other birth mother. An adoption agency will NOT hold your addiction against you but empower you to decide. At an adoption agency, a social worker will help you explore all the options available to you. And by seeking help, you will not get into any legal trouble.
Learn about how adoption may be the right option for you and the resources available from adoption agencies.
5. Resources for Women Facing Addiction during Pregnancy
If you are pregnant and struggling with addiction to drugs or alcohol, it is okay to ask for help. There is no need to be ashamed. A social worker can help you explore your options through an adoption agency, and it will not result in any legal implications. It is essential to know that pregnant women dependent on substances can and have delivered healthy babies.
Being honest with your doctor and adoption agency about suffering from addiction is the only way to get the proper support and care that you and your baby need.
6. I’m Pregnant And I Don’t Know Who The Father Is.
If you are pregnant and don’t know who the father is, the most important thing is to remain calm and relaxed. Worry and stress can hurt you and your baby.
This article outlines how you can track your period to determine when you were ovulating during your menstrual cycle. If you are still unsure or were with multiple partners in the span of a few days, there are other ways to determine the father including a dating scan during an ultrasound or a paternity test once your baby is born.
7. What To Do When Your Family is Unsupportive of Your Adoption Plan
You decided that creating an adoption plan is the best choice for you and your family. Ideally, your family would understand your choice and realize you are not “giving up” on your child but rather making a powerful and loving decision. So, when your family is not supportive of your adoption plan, what do you do?
Remember, adoption is a beautiful choice and gift. Many misconceptions may hinder your family from supporting your adoption plan. Read to see how you can educate your family on the beauty of adoption and adoption plans.
8. Support Groups While Pregnant: The Different Types and Benefits
Support groups, while pregnant, are beneficial for expectant mothers. Attending support groups while pregnant will help promote a healthy lifestyle for both mother and baby. Learn about the different types of support groups and the benefits and outcomes of attending a support group.
9. Breaking Down Myths About Birth Mothers
Myths are used to pass assumptions and stereotypes from generation to generation. As expectant and birth mothers, there are certain myths that you or people around you may believe to be true. It is so important to be educated on adoption, so you are comfortable in with your choice. We debunk the common myths surrounding birth mothers and adoption.
10. Benefits of Exercising During Pregnancy
Regular exercise is a must for pregnancy if your doctor approves you to work out. Including exercise in your wellness routine can increase energy, lead to better sleep, reduced backaches, even shortened/ easier labor. You should avoid contact sports and exercises and focus on aerobic workouts like walking, yoga, or swimming. It can even help to reduce stress!
11. Coping with Stress, Post-Partum Depression, and anxiety as a Birth Parent
As a birth and expectant parent, experiencing stress, post-partum depression, or anxiety is normal. Navigating an unplanned pregnancy, being unprepared to parent, and placing for adoption is challenging and stressful. Something as simple as stretching and drinking herbal tea is known to reduce feelings of stress and anxiousness.
Learn tips and resources to reduce stress, build a support system, and seek help and care for birth and expectant parents.
If you are considering adoption, need more information on this topic, or would like to speak with a social worker, call 1-888-608-8373 or visit https://afth.org/.
