If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy and don’t want to be pregnant, abortion is not your only option. It’s up to you to decide on the pregnancy path that’s right for you.
As you try to understand what is available, you probably feel a range of emotions from being overwhelmed to anxious. That is completely normal and giving yourself grace while you figure things out is okay. You don’t have to come up with a plan overnight.
Perhaps others have told you that abortion is the only option, but you actually have two other choices: adoption and parenting.
How Do I Consider Adoption?
Many women don’t know that there are numerous types of adoption plans. Depending on what type of relationship you want with your child, if any, will determine what plan you go with. You can choose from open, closed, or semi-open adoption. Open adoption is the most common type, where you get to decide how often you communicate with your child and the adoptive family.
If complete confidentiality is important, you can choose an option such as a closed adoption where no identifying information can ever be revealed about you.
Adoption can be an emotionally complex decision, which is why it’s essential to speak with an adoption counselor if you’re considering this option.
How Do I Consider Parenting?
Perhaps you feel uncertain about parenting due to your age or concerns about balancing school and raising a child. Maybe parenting was the last thought in your mind and not something you ever seriously considered.
While all these concerns and questions are understandable, parenting is a choice that is doable and can be rewarding, no matter your circumstances. As you consider this option, it’s important to talk through what this might look like with people you trust. You might also think about your answers to the following questions:
- Do I feel prepared to parent? If not, how can I find resources that will help me feel supported?
- Do I have a support system to help me with parenting? If not, where might I find this?
- What are my biggest worries about parenting? What could help put my mind more at ease?
Next Steps
While only you can decide what pregnancy option is right for you, at Crossroads Women’s Center, we’re here to offer support and encouragement along the way. We offer free and confidential consultations where you can bring all your questions and find answers in a compassionate, judgment-free environment. We give you the space to explore all your options and learn about local resources that can help.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!