When you face an unplanned pregnancy you have three paths that you can take: parenting, adoption, or abortion. Each woman facing an unplanned pregnancy makes her decision for different reasons and chooses what is best for her.
Being a parent is both challenging and rewarding. Babies are expensive and emotionally demanding. They rely completely on other people, which is why it is important to think about your options before the birth of your baby. One of the most essential needs as a parent is support.
Parenting
You should ask yourself some questions to clarify your situation and gain perspective.
- If you are single, is marrying the father a possibility? Why or why not? Would the father consider pre-marital counseling?
- What type of support (financial, role model, childcare, etc.) is the father of the baby able to provide?
- Can family members help financially, with childcare or with living arrangements, etc.?
- Could I live with family members or another single mother?
- How could I share household responsibilities with those I live with?
- What would it take to live on my own with my baby?
- How can I attain my long term goals in order to make a better life for myself and my child?
- Would I consider applying for WIC, Medicaid, and other government assistance programs?
Visit our Parenting page to find more information about parenting your child, including the various types of parenting and a preparation checklist.
Want to Learn More?
Adoption
There are many adoption plans available from closed adoptions to very open adoptions. You should contact your local adoption agencies and receive as much information as you need to make an informed decision about an adoption plan. Adoption is a great option for some women.
Before following through with an adoption plan you should ask yourself several questions:
- What would be an ideal home for your child?
- What do you want to provide for your child? Can you provide that without adoption?
- Is there anyone who has placed for adoption that you can contact?
- Which type of adoption plan would be right for you and your child and family?
Visit our Adoption page to find more information on the types of adoption, its benefits and risks, and whether it may be a good option for you and your baby.
Abortion
The decision to have an abortion is a difficult one and should not be taken lightly because the procedure is not something that can be taken back, and you might question “what if” in the future. Learning about the types of abortion procedures and their risks will help you make an informed decision.
The following are some questions that you should ask yourself before moving forward with an abortion procedure:
- Am I well informed about abortion procedures and their risks?
- Have I been tested for STD’s?
- What are the laws of my state in regard to abortion?
- Am I being pressured by anyone to have an abortion?
- Have I discussed abortion with a person who has past experience or is a professional?
- How have I viewed abortion in the past? How might I view it in the future?
- How much do I know about the potential physical complications?
- What do I know about the emotional impact from having an abortion?
Visit our Abortion page to learn more about types of abortion, possible physical and emotional effects, and recommendations.