If your home pregnancy test was positive, and you feel you’re not ready to be a mom, it can be scary. You might ask, “Is abortion my only option?” You could be unsure of how an unplanned pregnancy may affect your future. You may wonder what are your options.
If you are unexpectedly pregnant, abortion is not your only option. Your other option is to carry the pregnancy to term. Let’s take a closer look at what this means.
Not ready to be a mom – what about parenting?
Parenting likely crossed your mind when you learned of your unplanned pregnancy. The idea of having a child is a big change, and you probably have many questions. But it’s important to know you are not alone. A study found 91% of young women found parenting more rewarding than they expected and felt portrayals of parenting in media were not accurate. You deserve to know more than just myths about having a child.
When considering parenting, you may have questions like:
- What resources are available to help me care for my child’s needs?
- What emotional or other benefits does parenting bring?
- What benefits can I bring to a child?
- Can I get financial support?
- Who is my support system? Friends/Family?
- How would this affect my short and long-term life goals?
- Is my partner someone I could co-parent with?
- What would childcare look like?
You do not have to answer all of these today.
Not ready to be a mom – what about adoption?
You may feel you do not have the capacity to parent, but still want what’s best for your child. Adoption involves carrying your pregnancy to term and then transferring parental responsibilities. An adoption plan can provide you the confidence that you want for the future of your child.
Adoption plans can be customized to your needs. You decide whether you want a relationship with the adoptive family and if you want to stay in touch with your child.
The information below summarizes the three adoption plans:
- Open Adoption – You have contact with the child and adoptive family. This type of plan makes up most adoptions. 9 out of 10 adoptions are open to some extent.
- Semi-Open Adoption – You communicate through the adoption agency or third party of your choice and exchange non-identifying information with the adoptive parents.
- Closed Adoption – You do not have contact with the child or adoptive family, and no one can disclose details about you. Your identity stays completely anonymous.
Many adoptions are open because many women desire to have a relationship with their child. But you can choose the plan that fits you best. Adoptions and adoption consultations in Illinois can be obtained at no cost.
Your next step? Schedule an Appointment
Waterleaf Women’s Center has served thousands of young women like you who were not sure what to do next after finding out they were unexpectedly pregnant. You deserve professional medical care and information to empower you to make the best decision for you. We can help you sort through your situation and listen to you with compassion and without judgement.
Our professionals can walk you through the facts about parenting, adoption, and what’s involved with abortion, including various risks. We are here for you!
We invite you to schedule a no-cost Medical & Pregnancy Consultation with us so that you can learn about all your options and resources in a confidential setting. No insurance is required for any of our services.
Contact us confidentially online or call/text 630-360-2256 to schedule a no-cost appointment!
