Adoption Blog

You’re pregnant. Now what? What will you do? Who can you turn to? Discovering an unplanned pregnancy is never easy. While it may not seem like it right now, it will get better and there are people out there who want to help you. Don't panic. You don't have to make any decisions today. But you will need to start thinking about what's next. That's where we come in.

Go Where You Feel Comfortable

Scared? Nervous? Confused? All of these are common emotions when finding out you are unexpectedly pregnant. Get to a safe place as soon as you can. This might be your own home, work, school or a friend’s house. If you feel unsafe in your own home and don’t have a friend or relative to stay with, consider seeking out a local women’s shelter.

Remember, you have another life to consider now. Keeping yourself safe both physically and emotionally is more important than ever.

Seek Prenatal/Medical Care

Now that you’re pregnant it’s important for you to make your prenatal health a priority. Getting prenatal care early on is the first step to a healthy pregnancy. Prenatal care can help keep you and your baby healthy. Babies of mothers who do not get prenatal care are more likely to have a low birth weight along with other issues and defects. Make sure to seek prenatal care regularly and try not to miss any appointments. Doctors can spot health problems early when they see mothers regularly.

Put Your Baby First

Being pregnant might mean changing your priorities. Be prepared to see friends less and focus on yourself and your baby more. Keep in mind your emotional well-being has a direct impact on your baby’s health. Put your baby first by asking for help when needed, eating healthy, and exercising regularly (if approved by your doctor).

Decide for or Against Parenting

Now that you have seen a doctor and rearranged your priorities, it is time to make what very well could be the biggest decision of your life. Will you parent or will you place your baby for adoption? Both options have their fair share of ups and downs and each choice is equally rewarding. Always remember the decision to pursue adoption is entirely yours. Consider your options from a number of perspectives before making a decision. Evaluate your reasons for parenting and adoption and consider the benefits of both.

It is never too late to choose adoption - even if you’ve already given birth. We suggest speaking with a birthmother coordinator who can offer support & guidance through this difficult decision.

Make a Timeline

Whether you decide to parent or place your baby for adoption, making a timeline will help you stay on track throughout your pregnancy. Use your due date as a bench mark to map out how much time you have and the things you need to get done before the birth. This will help make things more manageable and less overwhelming. You might even want to include a budget for pregnancy expenses. If you are placing your baby for adoption, adoption agencies, adoption facilitators and adoptive families can offer financial assistance.

An unplanned pregnancy is a scary thing to go through. But you don't have to go through it alone. We are happy to guide you through your pregnancy while offering support and compassion. Give us a call for more information, or even just to talk. We're available 24/7.