When a women finds out she is pregnant her life will never be the same no matter what decision she makes. First, take some time to let your initial reaction settle. Start by confirming your pregnancy by scheduling a pregnancy test appointment and meeting with a client advocate to discuss your situation. You may want to write down your thoughts, fears and feelings about each option. Try to touch on your values, beliefs and circumstances. Because you will never forget this pivotal, life-changing experience, you will want to explore every possibility.
Your Choice to Parent:
Being a parent is one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of life. It is a miracle but also a big commitment. Besides love, the most essential need in parenting is support.
Ask yourself the following:
Ask yourself the following:
- Is marrying the father a possibility? Why or why not?
- Would he consider pre-marital counseling?
- What type of support could he provide? (financial, role model, childcare)
- How could my family help? (financially, childcare, living arrangements)
- Could I live with my family or be a single mom?
- How could I share responsibilities with those I live with?
- What would it take to live on my own with my baby?
- How can I continue to reach my goals to make a better life for me and my baby?
- Would I consider applying for WIC, Medicaid and other government programs?
- Have I called to find resources in my area that can provide parenting support and supplies?
Your Choice to Place for Adoption:
There are a wide range of adoption plans to choose from, everything from very closed to very open adoptions.
*If you are a Native American, your tribe (through their Social Services Agency) has options for you to consider within the guidelines of the ICWA and any tribal laws.
Here are some things that adoption can include:
*If you are a Native American, your tribe (through their Social Services Agency) has options for you to consider within the guidelines of the ICWA and any tribal laws.
Here are some things that adoption can include:
- You can choose the adoptive family and many details in the child's life
- You can determine what you want the relationship to be with your child and the adoptive family
- Adoptive children placed in loving homes go on to become well-adjusted, successful individuals
- At any point in the placement process you may decide to keep the baby
- Counseling, support groups and other services provided through the adoption agency enable each person involved to work through issues of loss and challenges along the way
Your Choice to Have an Abortion:
Though no decision will be easy each comes with different challenges, gathering as much information on the types of abortion procedures and their risks will help you make an informed decision. Remember that this is your decision, even though other's opinions may matter.
Ask yourself the following:
Ask yourself the following:
- Am I informed of each procedure and its risks? (if you are unsure, click on the button below)
- What are my state's laws regarding the time I may have an abortion performed?
- Is there anyone pressuring me to have an abortion or not to have an abortion?
- Have I talked with someone who has been through an abortion to discuss their experience?
This Center offers accurate information about all pregnancy options.
THIS CENTER DOES NOT OFFER ABORTION SERVICES OR ABORTION REFERRALS
THIS CENTER DOES NOT OFFER ABORTION SERVICES OR ABORTION REFERRALS
