Unexpected pregnancy can leave us with more questions than answers: “What should I do?” “Where should I go?” “Who should I tell?” Abortion might be the first option that comes to mind, but it’s not your only option. You have more than one! There are alternatives and other choices. Picture yourself selecting the alternatives below as you read. Understand all your options and what they might look like for you before making a pregnancy decision.
Alternative #1: Parenting
If you continue on the same course now, you’ll become a parent. While parenting isn’t necessarily easy, it can be a very rewarding option. Seeing a child that looks like you, and raising him/her in the best way you can, all while sharing laughs, memories, and love can be the best thing that’s ever happened to you, but everyone is different.
A major consideration for parenting could include if you have assistance. Will you have help with childcare? Who can watch your child when you can’t? Are there others in your family or a partner who would be willing to parent with you?
Some reservations for parenting could include the financial cost, feeling unprepared, or lack of partner or family support. If you feel you’re too young to parent, or you believe you aren’t ready yet, then you may choose a different option. You’re welcome to discuss any concerns you might have with a counselor at the Women’s Resource Center of the Rockies (WRC). We help many women who choose parenting with resources, classes, and material support to make parenting possible. We can talk more about this if you’re interested.
Alternative #2: Adoption
Adoption is a brave and sacrificial option. You carry your child for nine months, and then a family adopts him or her as their own. This option requires love and a giving heart because your sacrifice of nine months will give your child a better life, and a family a new son or daughter to love. In an adoption, you have all the power to choose the life you want for your child. You choose the family, how much contact you want to have, and any other terms you’d like to include.
Some reservations for adoption might include hesitance to give your child to another family, or uncertainty with the process. If you think adoption might be the option for you, schedule an appointment at WRC to receive information. We can talk you through the process and connect you with qualified adoption agencies through referrals.
Remember: The choice is yours!
At the Women’s Resource Center of the Rockies, we walk you through every pregnancy option and provide information so you can make an educated and confident decision for yourself and your future. It’s 100% up to you, we’re simply here to support you. Schedule an appointment today to confirm your pregnancy at no cost with testing and an ultrasound, and to discuss your pregnancy options. We want to be a resource for you during this time.