We understand those conflicting feelings if you’re pregnant and did not intend to be at this time. You’re thinking about your future, your education or your career. How to handle your pregnancy is one of the most challenging decisions you will make in your life. Take your time, counsel with others, get as much information as possible about your options, and make the choice that is right for you.
Who Can I Counsel With?
At A Choice for Women, we offer free, private counseling. Talk one-on-one with a trained professional in a safe, non-judgmental space. Sometimes you need a neutral third party to help you look ahead.
We’re ready to listen and honestly and objectively examine your situation to help you make the best choice for your future. To learn more, read How Can Counseling Help Me Make an Informed Pregnancy Decision?
What Are My Options?
At a time when life feels out of control, it’s nice to know you do have options. You are in complete control of your future. No one can force you to make a decision you do not want to make.
You have three options: have an abortion, make an adoption plan, or choose to parent. Each one of these choices impacts your future. Get the facts before you decide.
Have an Abortion
An abortion is a major medical decision with potential physical and emotional consequences. If you are considering abortion as one of your options, learn as much as possible about the procedures and requirements for each.
How far along you are in your pregnancy usually determines the type of abortion procedure you qualify for. An ultrasound determines the exact number of weeks you have been pregnant. A Choice for Women offers free and confidential limited obstetrical ultrasounds.
Although every woman’s abortion experience is unique, be aware that there are potential physical side effects. You should also discuss your current mental health with your healthcare provider. Abortion heightens mental health problems in at least some women.
Make an Adoption Plan
If you feel unprepared to raise your child, placing them for adoption is one parenting option. Choosing adoption can be emotionally difficult. It’s critical that you receive thorough adoption counseling from a reputable, licensed adoption professional.
Today, the expectant mother or birth mother makes all of the decisions. She selects the couple who will raise her child and the future she hopes her child will have. She also determines the amount of contact she wishes to have once the adoption is finalized.
Expectant mothers pay nothing for adoption services. Your adoption coordinator covers all your medical and legal expenses. In some cases, other pregnancy-related expenses are also covered.
Choosing to Parent
Your third option is parenting your child. Although it may seem impossible to consider parenting, unplanned doesn’t mean impossible. Many community services are available, and we can provide financial assistance in certain situations.
Talking with one of our counselors helps you determine what resources you have available and what you need. You can discuss housing options, medical care, food assistance, etc.
Parenting takes determination and a lot of love, but it can be extremely rewarding. Don’t count this option out until you’ve talked with our caring counselors.
Schedule an Appointment
Only you can determine what’s best for your pregnancy and future. We’re here to help you determine your next steps. Schedule a free and confidential appointment to talk with us. We’re here for you.