Reacting to an Unplanned Pregnancy

In life, there are a lot of unexpected things that happen from time to time. However, while an unplanned pregnancy may not be in your life plan, you could turn things around to help someone else and your unborn child. Discover how St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to help when you’re struggling with an unplanned pregnancy, and get in touch with our Baton Rouge agency to see what can be done.

It’s Alright to Be Emotional

When you’re going through an unplanned pregnancy, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with the situation. There might be people in your life who make you feel as if you’re over or even underreacting. But no matter what you’re feeling, it’s valid and understandable.

So take a moment for yourself. Once you’re calm, you can begin to think about the next steps for yourself and the child. 

Taking the Next Steps

For an unplanned pregnancy, there are a number of options available to you. As we’ve stated before in past blogs, there are three major options to choose from. Some people may look at abortion, others choose adoption, and some choose to parent the child themselves. Each option has a different outcome, and our staff is more than happy to go over each option with you. But what happens if you do choose adoption? Take a look. 

Our Process

At St. Elizabeth, we not only put the needs of the child first but also the needs of the birth parent. That’s why we have a well-rounded process to ensure the best possible outcome for all parties.

To begin, we go over your options. And, if you choose adoption, we’re ready to help with counseling. We know it’s a difficult time, and as professionals, we can help you make an adoption plan. 

Once there’s a plan in place, it’s time to choose a family. St. Elizabeth has a number of pre-approved families to choose from, so you can have confidence that your baby is taken care of. We also continue to support you as your pregnancy progresses, and you can make the decisions you’re comfortable with for delivery as well. 

But it doesn’t stop there. Even though Louisiana is a closed-adoption state, we’re able to offer you the choice of open or semi-open options as well. It’s entirely up to you to decide. After everything has been decided and your adoption plan has been completed, we’re still there for you with our post-placement counseling. As we said, we want what’s best for you.

Let Our Baton Rouge Agency Help You With Your Unplanned Pregnancy

Are you looking for assistance with your unplanned pregnancy? Our Baton Rouge adoption agency can help you. Get in touch with us to begin the process and see how we can begin. Give us a call at 225-769-8888 or send us a message online, and one of our members of staff will be happy to aid you with your journey. Let’s find the best course of action for you and see how we can help.

Choosing to Place a Child for Adoption?

Being pregnant can be pretty scary, especially if it’s your first time or if you’re not ready. But it’s okay. Take a moment, take a breath, and remember—you have options. One of these options is to choose adoption. By choosing adoption, you could not only help yourself, but also the baby and a family that is ready for their new family member. But why choose adoption? And even if you do choose it, where do you even begin? Don’t worry. St. Elizabeth Foundation professionals are ready to help you with your adoption journey in New Orleans.

Why Do People Choose Adoption

Choosing adoption is a big choice. And like many big choices, everyone has their reasons.

One of the biggest reasons is simply that they cannot afford to support the child. There’s no shame in admitting this. In fact, it’s the responsible thing to do. After all, pregnancy is a very expensive thing, and children continue being expensive. So many mothers choose adoption because then their child can have a more fulfilling life.

On the other hand, some people just aren’t ready to become mothers. Or they don’t want to be one at all. Being a parent is a big responsibility, one that takes a lot of maturity to handle. 

Perhaps the mother in question also just doesn’t want another baby. And there are plenty of reasons for that as well. These mothers choose adoption because then the child will have a family that wants them deeply.

There are many reasons why people choose adoption for their current pregnancy. And all of these reasons are good reasons. Even so, there are plenty of stigmas surrounding adoption. For example, some expecting mothers may feel as if they are “giving up” on this child. But the thing is, it’s quite the opposite. You’re choosing to give this child their best shot at life.

What Can St. Elizabeth Do to Help? 

At St. Elizabeth, we’re ready to help you with your adoption plan. For expectant mothers, we offer the control you need to get through this. 

After contacting us, our counselors are going to help you look through your options. If you do choose adoption, you also get to choose your baby’s family. We ensure the families we offer live up to expectations to provide a loving home and a bright future, giving the child their best chance. The birth is also your choice. We encourage you to have as comfortable of a birth as possible. And if you’d like, you have the option of either an open or closed adoption. Everything is designed with your comfort in mind.

But the assistance doesn’t stop there with St. Elizabeth. We also provide support every step of the way, even after birth. Ask us about helping you with living, medical, counseling, and legal costs.

Contact Our Adoption Agency in New Orleans

Are you ready to begin the process? We’re more than happy to help you begin! Learn more about the process and possibilities by contacting us online or giving us a call at 225-769-8888. We’re also available through email through info@stelizabethfoundation.org.  

For more info about adoption, make sure to also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. We always have more to share and love to inform others about the beauty of adoption.

Unwanted Pregnancy — Understand Your Options

An unplanned pregnancy can leave you with a lot of questions. And it may seem like the answers you seek aren’t always easy to find. You may not feel that you are ready to become a mother. And you may not know if you have the strength to give birth to a child at this point in your life. 

If you are facing an unwanted pregnancy in Baton Rouge, you don’t have to do it alone. St. Elizabeth Foundation offers free counseling services to help you find the answers you are looking for. And, once you get a clearer understanding of your options, you can begin to make the decisions that will be best for you.

So Many Questions

We understand that many young women who become pregnant aren’t ready to be mothers. And, when it comes to an unwanted pregnancy in Baton Rouge, there are typically three options: adoption, abortion, and parenting anyway. None of these choices are easy for a young woman to make, and each comes with its own consequences.

To find the choice that will make the most sense in your life, it’s important to first ask yourself some critical questions.

Adoption

  • If I carry my pregnancy to term, will I be able to part with my child?
  • What kind of support can an adoption agency provide to help me through my pregnancy?
  • If I place my child with another family, will I be able to see them again?
  • Will I be able to choose my child’s family?
  • If my child is adopted, can I continue to receive emotional support from the adoption agency after giving birth?

Abortion

  • How will I feel after I have terminated my pregnancy?
  • Could I regret this decision later in life?
  • At this point in my pregnancy, would an abortion be legal in my state?
  • Do I have religious or spiritual beliefs that would make me question this decision?

Parenting*

  • Can I afford to parent a child?
  • What happens to children who live much of their lives in the foster care system?
  • What does it mean when my child becomes a ward of the state?
  • Will I have any control or options if my child is taken by the state into foster care?
  • Am I ready to be a parent? How could it affect the child negatively if I am not ready?

*Are you feeling overwhelmed with a baby or young child and don’t think you can make it work? Consider calling St. Elizabeth or using a safe haven site.

At St. Elizabeth, our kind and compassionate counselors are ready to help you explore each of these questions. They have worked with many young women who have been in your position, giving them the facts and support they needed to make informed decisions. 

And, if you choose adoption through St. Elizabeth, your counselor can give you a step-by-step explanation of what to expect during and after your pregnancy. Because St. Elizabeth doesn’t just provide assistance through your pregnancy: we also offer you emotional support after your child’s birth for as long as you need it.

Unwanted Pregnancy in Baton Rouge? You Have Options

If you’ve recently learned that you are pregnant, it’s important to have a firm understanding of your options before deciding what to do next. Our counselors want to help you find the choice that’s best for you, whatever it may be. 
To speak with a counselor about your pregnancy, give us a call at 225-769-8888 or contact us online for a judgment-free conversation. You don’t have to face these challenges alone. We’re here for you.

Searching for an Adoption Agency Near You? Let Us Help

Young women who have recently learned they are pregnant often face a lot of fear and uncertainty. An unplanned pregnancy might make you feel scared and alone. But knowing your options can help you feel in control of your life again.

We understand the struggle you are going through, and we’re here to help you through it. Find out how St. Elizabeth Foundation can give you the information and support you need to help you feel empowered and feel in control again.

Understanding Your Options

You may not feel like it right now, but you’re stronger than you think. That’s why St. Elizabeth is dedicated to supporting you from the beginning. When you contact us, we will connect you with a kind and experienced counselor. This pressure-free meeting will help you understand your options and get your questions answered. 

Knowing what you can do is the first step to taking control of your life. And once you understand what you can do, you can decide which choice makes the most sense. Our counselors are ready to support you through this process, one step at a time.

Searching for an Adoption Agency Near You? We’re Here to Help

Meeting with a St. Elizabeth counselor gives you a chance to learn which choice will make the most sense in your life. And, if you decide that an adoption plan is right for you, we will hold your hand through each step of the process. And this includes choosing a family for your baby.

We will find the best candidates to provide your baby with a loving home, and you will get to select your baby’s family. This means that you will choose the parents who care for your baby. You are in charge of this process. And we will give you the information and assistance you need to help you throughout.

Supporting You Through It All

An unplanned pregnancy can bring challenges. But when it comes to living, medical, legal, and counseling costs, you don’t have to face them alone. We provide pregnancy assistance to reduce your stress and help you get relief. This assistance can give you the safety and security you need when you need it most.

We understand what a big decision it can be to choose an adoption plan. But if you make that choice, we will be there for you through the entire process, including after your child is born. St. Elizabeth Foundation provides post-placement counseling. This gives you emotional support after your baby’s adoption.

Reach Out to Us

An unplanned pregnancy can make you feel scared and powerless. But learning about the options available to you can make all the difference. Choosing adoption gives you the power to bring love into the world and find a nurturing home for your baby. And if it’s what you decide you want to do, St. Elizabeth Foundation is dedicated to supporting you through it.

The choice is yours, and you should have all the information you need to make the best decision for you. If you’re looking for an adoption agency near you, call us at 225-769-8888 or visit our contact page to get in touch with a St. Elizabeth counselor. Your conversation will be confidential and judgment-free.

Unplanned Pregnancy – What to do Next?

A hundred thoughts and emotions can threaten to overwhelm a woman when she finds out she’s pregnant. Multiply that by a thousand if the pregnancy is unplanned. When you’re not expecting to have a child yet, what should be a beautiful, joyous thing suddenly becomes terrifying. There are so many worries flying through your head that you can’t keep up. How can I raise a child? Will I have to do it on my own? Does this put my future on hold? Can I afford it? What will my friends and family think? What do I do?

First off, take a deep breath. 

It’s going to be okay. We know this is an overwhelming experience, so even though it might sound silly and obvious, it’s important to remember to breathe. Calming, deep breaths can center your mind and help you focus on one thing at a time. Because you do have options, and looking at each option with a clear head can help you understand which is the best path for your future, and the future of your unborn child. 

Second, look at your options. 

When dealing with an unplanned pregnancy, there’s nothing more important than fully understanding the positives and negatives of each of the following options. You can do so by asking yourself questions and then seeking the advice of a professional. 

  1. Parenting 
    • Am I ready to raise a child? 
    • Do I have the finances to support the child? 
    • Will my child have a father figure in his or her life?
    • Who can help me raise the child?
  2. Abortion
    • What are the health risks of an abortion? 
    • What will my friends and family think of this decision? 
    • Is it really the best solution? 
    • How much does it cost?
    • Will I regret this decision?
  3. Adoption
    • What’s the process of adoption? 
    • Will I get to see my child after they are adopted? Can I be involved in their life? 
    • Does it cost anything? 
    • What will my child think of me?
    • Do I want another family to raise my child? 

Some of these questions only you can answer. However, many of them can and should be answered by a healthcare or adoption professional. 

Third, talk to doctors, counselors, and professionals.

Go to your doctor, a clinic, a therapist–anyone who either has the knowledge to help you through this experience. They can properly walk you through each question and decision you have to make by providing you with information about each option. 

If you’re looking at adoption as a possible path, there are many adoption agencies out there, like St. Elizabeth Foundation, that will guide you through the process of adoption with a warm and welcoming hand. Our priority is to your unborn child, and to you. To find the best home they could possibly ask for, with the best chance for a bright future. Learn more about what to expect here. 

Finally, come to terms with your decision. 

It can be a struggle to come to terms with your decision. No matter what, you might always wish that things would’ve been different. But time heals many wounds, and knowing that you’ve done what’s best for you and your child is the comfort you need. 

Find Out More About The Adoption Process

We understand that the adoption process can seem overwhelming. There are so many steps, a lot of paperwork, and of course, many emotions. So if you’re considering making an adoption plan, you need someone who knows all about it to help guide you through it. Learn more about the adoption process in Baton Rouge with St. Elizabeth Foundation

As A Birth Mother, You’re The One In Control 

Do you have an unplanned pregnancy? Then you need to know that you have options. Adoption is one of those options. It’s a loving, unselfish, and empowering choice. While making your decision, St. Elizabeth’s caring staff is here to listen. And, if you do choose to make an adoption plan, we can help you through your pregnancy, birth, and afterwards. And remember, all of our services are completely free.

Choosing Adoption 

Though we’re here to help you through the adoption process, every choice is still yours to make. As the birth mother, you’re the one in control of every decision—no matter how big or small. We’ll help you with educational, financial, and emotional support at every step. We’re here to hold your hand as you make the best choice for you and your baby’s future. YOU are the one in charge. 

You choose the family that will parent your baby. 

St. Elizabeth Foundation screens all prospective adopting parents. We make sure every single couple can provide your baby with a safe and loving home. All of our couples have been married for at least five years. That means your baby will have two parents—a caring mother AND a present father. All of these parents fill out a formal application for our staff to review. Then, they go through a lengthy home study process and background checks. Additionally, we make sure they’re emotionally stable and have a strong relationship. We also discuss their parenting philosophy. 

You choose the type of adoption.

Once you select a family, the next step in the adoption process is choosing the type of adoption. St. Elizabeth works with attorneys. They help determine and finalize your rights and the birth parents’ rights. There are three types of adoptions in Louisiana: open, semi-open, and closed. The state of Louisiana is a closed adoption state. They only recognize the adoption as “closed”. The agency is the one that makes it semi-open or open.

  • Open adoptions mean birth parents and adoptive families communicate directly with each other. These can be scheduled meetings, phone calls, or letters. Open adoptions are the most common and regarded as being the most beneficial. 
  • Semi-open adoptions mean an adoption agency facilitates communication. Through the agency, birth parents and adoptive families share information and arrange meetings. 
  • Closed adoptions mean the adoptive family and the birth parents do not communicate at all. Their identities are sealed in court records. 

While St. Elizabeth Foundation specializes in open adoptions, we can help you, whatever your preference. Because remember, YOU are the one in charge.  

Do You Have Questions About The Adoption Process in Baton Rouge?

Whatever your decision, we want you to feel good about it. Part of feeling good about your decision is getting all of your questions answered. Get in touch with us by calling 225-769-8888 or contacting us online. We’re here for you. 

Closed And Open Adoptions In Louisiana

Do you have an unplanned pregnancy? Choosing adoption is a loving and unselfish choice. As a birth mother, you’ll get to make all the decisions about your adoption plan. One of these choices is whether to have a closed or open adoption in Louisiana. Birth mothers considering adoption often have questions. What’s the difference between closed and open adoptions? How do I know what kind of adoption is best for my baby? Who can help me? 

Differences Between Closed And Open Adoptions In Louisiana

Adoption is always a loving choice. But birth parents can choose to arrange their adoption plan in many different ways. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, our experienced and caring staff can provide resources and answer questions. We’re here to help birth parents decide which situation is best—for them and their babies.  

Open And Semi-Open Adoptions

Birth and adoptive families exchange information with each other in open adoptions. This way, birth parents can maintain a connection with the child. The exact terms of each open adoption can differ for each situation. Because everyone’s situation is unique, there are many different options and arrangements. In open adoptions, birth parents and adoptive families communicate directly with each other. With a semi-open adoption, the agency facilitates communication. 

In fact, open adoption is the most common type of adoption in the United States. Many studies and experts agree it’s the most beneficial. St. Elizabeth Foundation can help birth mothers through every step of an open adoption. We can even offer a place for adopting families and birth parents to meet. 

Closed Adoptions

In closed adoptions, the identities of a baby’s birth parents are sealed in agency and court records. Therefore, the adopting family and the birth parents do not interact or communicate. Physical characteristics and medical history of the parents may be provided, however. St. Elizabeth Foundation specializes in open adoptions. But we understand a closed adoption is sometimes the best situation. 

Adoption Is NOT Foster Care

Some birth mothers are concerned that choosing adoption means their baby will be in foster care. This is not the case. Making an adoption plan means a loving family will parent your baby and provide them with the best possible care. In fact, adoption can be the best way to help children avoid the foster care system. Foster care children often come from birth parents who weren’t ready or able to parent them. However, St. Elizabeth’s adopting families all go through an extensive process. Each couple has to demonstrate they can provide a safe and loving home. 

Why Choose St. Elizabeth Foundation?

Over the past 32 years, we’ve placed more than 600 babies with caring and supportive families. We not only can help birth mothers through their medical and legal needs, but also their emotional ones. What’s more, we can offer support to the birth fathers as well. To get more information and ask us questions, contact us online or call 225-769-8888. You can also follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to see more of our stories. We’re here for you, how ever you need us.

Should I Use An Adoption Attorney Or An Adoption Agency?

For both birth parents and adopting families, the adoption process can seem overwhelming. Not only is it emotional, but the legal and medical needs can be confusing.  There are so many necessary steps to take, and big decisions to make. They need supportive, understanding, and knowledgeable people to help guide them. After making the loving choice of adoption, they need to decide whether to use an adoption attorney or an adoption agency in Louisiana. 

Why Choose Adoption? 

Families choose to adopt a baby for many different reasons, but infertility is a very common one. These couples are looking for a baby to love and parent. Therefore, a birth mother choosing adoption is an incredibly loving choice. It can be a difficult decision, but birth moms who choose adoption do love their children. These mothers want to give their baby the best possible care to have the best possible life. Every woman has her own reasons to consider adoption. But here are some of the most common situations birth mothers are in: 

  • She isn’t ready to be a mom.
  • She can’t afford to take care of a child.
  • She doesn’t have the support of her family.
  • She doesn’t have a good relationship with her baby’s father.
  • She wants to finish her education. 
  • She wants to go further in her job. 

Choosing adoption is a decision only a birth mother can make for herself and her baby. Similarly, she gets to make every following decision—including which loving family will get to parent their baby. Another one of these decisions is whether to use an adoption agency or an adoption attorney. 

Adoption Attorney Vs. Adoption Agencies 

In Louisiana, adoption is defined as “a legal arrangement in which a new set of parents raise the child.” State law allows adoptive parents to pay the medical costs of prenatal care and childbirth. Adoption attorneys can match adopting families with birth mothers. They also help oversee the required paperwork and finances and define the terms of the adoption, such as whether it’s open or closed. 

An adoption agency such as St. Elizabeth Foundation provides all this necessary legal assistance. But it also offers many more resources and much more support.  In addition to the legal and medical needs, an agency can help birth mothers with living and counseling expenses. Caring counselors give birth mothers emotional support before and after the birth. What’s more, all this help is confidential and free of charge.

Contact An Adoption Agency With Absolutely No Pressure 

If you’re pregnant, we understand how hard and scary it can be. But remember—you have options, you’re in control, and you’re stronger than you think. 
We know you probably have a lot more questions. That’s why St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to help. We’ve placed more than 600 babies in loving homes. We’re here to hold your hand and help you make the best choice for you and your baby. You can get in touch with us to get more information and answers. And remember—just because you call us doesn’t mean you have to choose adoption. All our conversations are private. You can call us at 225-769-8888 or contact us online