Pregnancy can be an exciting time for expecting parents. But that doesn’t mean that everyone feels that way, especially if it is an unplanned pregnancy. If you’re pregnant and don’t feel ready to have a baby, know that you are not alone. There are unplanned pregnancy options and support resources available that are there to help you during this journey and make the best decision for yourself and your future.
4 Common Reasons Why Someone May Not Be Ready
1. Financial Hardships
From doctors’ visits to diapers, car seats, and the cost of childcare, the financial responsibility of having a child can add up. If you are already struggling financially, the stress can be overwhelming. Money is one of the big stressors for expecting parents. And systematic issues such as the lack of paid maternity leave and medical debt only add to the issue.
2. Little to No Support System
Whether you are doing this alone, in an unhealthy relationship, or just disconnected from those around you, being alone can be tough, especially when you are pregnant. Some might be asking themselves “Who’s going to help me through this experience?” Pregnancy and parenthood can be lonely when doing it alone. Having a little to no support system will not only make things harder but can also take a toll on your mental health.
3. Mental Health/Addiction Struggles
You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, or substance addiction. Mental health struggles are one of the most impactful barriers when it comes to feeling ready for pregnancy and parenting. As hormones change and external stressors make your emotional load heavier and tougher to manage, it is important to get the support you need.
4. Just Aren’t Ready for a Child Right Now
Maybe this pregnancy was completely unexpected or maybe it is something you want one day, but just not now. The shock of this news can make it difficult to decide what is next and if you are truly ready to parent. Not every pregnancy is planned. An unplanned pregnancy doesn’t mean it is unwanted, or you that you don’t have the capacity to be a “good” parent. But it does mean that you have the opportunity to explore your options and what is best for you.
Unplanned Pregnancy Options
Adoption
As you begin your research and explore if adoption is the right choice for you, you want to first understand the different types of adoptions and how an adoption agency will help you to create the right adoption plan for you.
Those who choose to place their child for adoption are in control of the adoption plan. This means birth moms choose the type of adoption and who the adoptive family will be.
Types of Adoption
An open adoption refers to a plan where the birth mother, child and the adoptive family are connected and maintain a relationship after placement. This relationship is determined by the Birth Mother. They can choose whether the relationship can be via letters, calls, or even in person visits.
On the other hand, closed adoptions are adoptions where the birth mother chooses to remain anonymous to the child and the birth family after adoption placement.
Read More Here: https://pregnancyadoptionoptions.com/your-options/adoption/
Abortion
This option is for those who choose to terminate their pregnancy. It is important to take the time to think through the costs, risks, side effects, and types of abortion methods there are before deciding if this is the right choice for you.
Types of Abortion:
The abortion pill consists of using two medicines to end a pregnancy. This causes cramping and bleeding to essentially empty your uterus, similar to a heavy period. You can take the abortion pill 11 weeks after the first day of your last period and may also receive some antibiotics to prevent any infections. With the abortion pill, you will typically have an abortion at home.
An in-clinic abortion, also called a surgical abortion, is a medical procedure to empty your uterus. Although it is a procedure, it is not considered surgery as this can be done in-office typically. How late you can receive the abortion depends upon your state and the health center you go to.
Read More Here: https://pregnancyadoptionoptions.com/your-options/abortion/
Parenting
If you do decide to parent and are still nervous, just know that no one truly feels completely ready before having a child. There will always be goals and dreams you wish you completed before pregnancy and before the baby arrives.
When making the decision to parent you must first ask yourself these questions:
- Am I choosing to parent because I want to or because I feel like I would “fail” if I didn’t?
- Do I have the financial resources to provide for myself and my child?
- Do I have a support system to help me when I need a break?
- Am I struggling with any mental health issues? If so, am I getting the help needed to manage it?
- Will my child be raised in and around healthy influences?
- Do I have the time to commit to being a parent?
Read More Here: https://pregnancyadoptionoptions.com/your-options/parenting/
If you are pregnant and don’t feel ready, please know that you are not “failing”. You are going through and navigating an emotional and intense experience. Being ready to have a child isn’t something you can choose to be, it’s a process you go through.
Whether you’re hesitant due to financial reasons, having little to no support system, or mental health reasons, just know there are resources and options there for you and people who are there to support you. In the end, it is your decision to make.
