Often, when discovering an unplanned pregnancy, women panic and think abortion is the only option. However, having an abortion can cause physical and emotional consequences. You should consider your other options: making an adoption plan or choosing to parent.

Right about now, you may be saying, “No way. I couldn’t give my child up for adoption or try to parent!” But have you really looked at either of those options? You might be surprised at the possibilities. Take a closer look.

Why Would I Choose Adoption?

Women from all walks of life choose adoption. Here are a few reasons why:

• I don’t have the financial or emotional support of my partner or parents.
• I am in an unsafe relationship that would not be good for a child.
• I’m already raising other children and don’t have the time or finances to care for one more.
• I don’t want to parent, or this is not the right time.
• I want my child to have a stable, two-parent home.
• I don’t want my child to wind up in foster care.
• My health isn’t good (or I live an unhealthy lifestyle), so I can’t properly care for a child.

How Do Women Emotionally Handle Adoption?

We won’t lie. Placing your child for adoption is one of the biggest and hardest decisions you may make in your life, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t the best choice. Sometimes, the most challenging decisions we have to make are for the best reasons.

Today’s adoptions are very different from a few decades ago. Notice, we don’t say you’re “giving up” your child for adoption. Why? Because today, you are in charge of the entire process.

“Giving up my child” was a term used long ago when birth mothers had no idea who adopted their child. Those days are long gone. Now, the expectant mother or birth mother can choose the adoptive family.

She determines what’s most important to her, and the adoption coordinator finds families who share the same values. The expectant mother can even meet the family she chooses before giving birth. Take a look at some of our waiting families.

If you work with a reputable, licensed adoption agency like A Gift of Hope Adoptions, you will receive all the emotional support and care you need. Our counselors ensure you thoroughly understand the process, your rights, and your choice. Read What Are the Benefits of Adoption.

Could I Really Parent?

Only you know whether you can parent. Parenting requires a great deal of energy and finances, but many organizations can help. If you decide to parent, we can provide you with referrals.

Missouri provides resources for housing, food, medical assistance, and more. We can give you the information you need to get started.

Schedule a Free and Confidential Meeting With Us

Before deciding about your pregnancy, talk with A Gift of Hope Adoptions. You can conveniently schedule an appointment online or call us at (888) 564-HOPE (4672). By talking to us, you aren’t committing to an adoption, and we won’t pressure you. Don’t worry, you have options, and we’ll help you find the best one for you.

This blog is for informational purposes only. This is not legal or medical advice. While we try our best to reflect current laws with accuracy at the time of writing, please note the laws can change over time.