If you are an expectant mother in an unplanned pregnancy, you might feel like you’re drowning–grasping for air as the responsibilities and pressures you’re already under suffocate you. But we’re here to tell you that you actually do have options. There is hope, and good things will come of this. Let’s get you started considering your options:
Unplanned Pregnancy Options
Marriage
If you know your child’s father, this is truly a potential option for you, but there are some important things you need to consider. Take a moment to consider these questions…
How long have you known this man, and what kind of parent and husband do you believe he’ll make?
Have you two discussed marriage before? Would you marry each other even if you were not pregnant?
Do you trust him? Can you always count on him? Will he support you during your pregnancy?
Is he kind and loving towards you? What about to others?
Consider journaling your own thoughts on benefits or marriage as well as your concerns. Writing these things down will help you get a better picture of what you want and what this marriage might look like.
Single-Parenting
Parenting a child is a wonderful adventure, but the amount of work and sacrifice involved should not be underestimated. Without a partner, you will need lots of help and support from others. Seriously and realistically ponder these questions…
What kind of life do you want for your child? How will you provide that for your child?
Can the job you have support you and your child? If you are planning on advancing your career at some point, what will you have to do in order to accomplish that goal? Can you do it while raising a child?
Who will take care of your child while you are at work or school?
How will single-parenting affect your own life on a daily basis? What dreams do you have for yourself? Will you be able to achieve those while raising a child?
Is there anyone in your life who you know will provide help consistently with your living expenses and with caring for your baby?
Take some time to journal your thoughts. Be as detailed as possible. Consider every skill you have, every person in your life, and every dream in your heart. Don’t be afraid to ponder. This is your life, and you deserve the best opportunity to live it to its fullest. What will that look like for you?
Adoption
Adoption is a beautiful, courageous decision made by an expectant mother. It is a choice to lovingly place your child with a family who are presently in a better position, whether it be emotionally or financially, to parent your child. It is a caring display of responsibility, sacrifice, and bravery. Here are some questions to help you decide if adoption is right for you:
Envision the type of life you desire for your baby. What does it look like? Is it something you can give them right now?
Is it important to you that your baby’s parents are married? Why?
Do you still have dreams that you haven’t yet accomplished? Would adoption help you in pursuing these goals?
Think about any experience you’ve ever had with adoption. Have you ever known anybody who was adopted? Have you ever known anybody who adopted a child? Do you know anyone who placed a child for adoption? Think about their stories and download our free adoption stories e-book.
If you’re struggling with this decision, we encourage you to reach out. There are people who are happy to listen to your story while you sort out what’s best for you and your baby. You can contact our Options Counselors at 800-452-3639.