Pregnancy isn’t always planned. Sometimes, you may know exactly how you want to move forward. For others, the decision is much more difficult. This is why it’s important to understand the choices in front of you. So, what are your options for an unplanned pregnancy? At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we make sure you know every option available so that you make the right choice for yourself and your baby.
Here Are Your Options For Unplanned Pregnancy
If you learn that you are pregnant and are not sure what to do—don’t panic! Here are the three possible options for unplanned pregnancy. Each comes with its own set of emotions and considerations. Take time to determine the best option for you.
1. Parent Your Child
Even though your pregnancy is unintended, you may consider parenting your child. Counselors, family, friends, or healthcare professionals can offer guidance on carrying and parenting your child. Many factors can influence this option, like your health and financial stability. Consider who can help you raise or care for your baby, where they will live, and what expenses you should prepare for, both pre and post-delivery. If you decide that parenting your child is not the right decision for you, don’t worry. There are other options.
2. Adoption
You may parent your child and find that parenthood is not the best decision for you or your new baby. Or, you may know from the onset that you do not want to parent your child. Adoption is a solution for multiple parties involved. Everyone brings a different story to the table. For some families, having children of their own is not possible. For others, they are simply passionate about adoption itself. Adoption allows you to give your child a safe, healthy home with a loving family. With St. Elizabeth Foundation, you can connect with potential adoptive parents in a closed, semi-open, or open adoption. The choice is yours, and we give you full control from start to finish.
3. Abortion
Abortion is the most permanent decision available. An unintended pregnancy can be terminated within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, or the first trimester. Surgical abortions can be performed up to the early stages of your second trimester. Depending on your state’s laws or how far along you are in your pregnancy, abortion may not be a considerable option. Following your abortion, you should follow up with your provider regarding side effects or confirming a completed abortion. Termination can also lead to a range of emotions. Consider speaking with a counselor if you experience any symptoms of depression or anxiety.
So, What Is The Right Choice For You?
We hope that you feel some relief knowing that there are several options ahead of you. You are not cornered into one option for your unplanned pregnancy. However, this does not make your decision any easier. It is up to you to determine the right choice for your needs, but know that you don’t have to figure it out alone. St. Elizabeth Foundation is your friend in a season of confusion. Our adoption agency was founded to help young women find support during unintended pregnancies—before, during, and after delivery.
From counseling services to financial aid, St. Elizabeth helps you to take care of yourself and your baby, no matter what decision you come to. Find free counseling services to help you understand each of your options. Determine your action plan. If you choose adoption or find that parenting your child is not a viable option, St. Elizabeth can connect you to loving parents to nurture your baby. We can step you through closed, semi-open, and open adoptions while providing you with emotional support from start to finish.
Find Your Answers At St. Elizabeth
Are you working through your options for an unplanned pregnancy? Contact St. Elizabeth Foundation today at 225-769-8888 or here on our website. Our staff is ready to provide you with the kindness and support you need as you find your answers. Reach out to us today to set up free counseling or to begin your adoption journey.