So you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy. While you may feel afraid and alone at this moment, you are not the first person to be in this position, and there are a number of options with which you can proceed. Let’s take a look at 2 ways to handle an unexpected pregnancy.

1. Adoption

If you decide to proceed with your pregnancy but do not feel that you would be able to parent a child, you may want to consider adoption. There is a world of resources online to help you learn about what placing a child for adoption means and how that will impact your life. There are adoption agencies, counselors, attorneys, support groups, etc. that can guide you on your decision-making process and give you a real-life example of how a pregnancy that results in an adoption plan can be.

In my own unexpected pregnancy, I chose adoption for my child. I placed my son at birth almost three years ago in an open adoption. It is a very hard decision to make and shouldn’t be done lightly. There are a lot of negative feelings that can result, such as grief and sadness. But, for me personally, I have also experienced positive feelings of loving my son and his adoptive family, being proud of how well he’s bonded with them and grown, and a whole host of other things.

2. Parenting

While you may not have planned to get pregnant, you always have the option of parenting your child if you feel you can give them a stable, loving, safe home. Some things to take into consideration with this option is whether or not you have a support system in place to help with a child: will you be able to work after having this child and if you do, will you need childcare and lots of other things. Just because a pregnancy is unexpected does not mean it can’t be a blessing in your life, even if that means making huge decisions in a short amount of time.  

Every unexpected pregnancy is different, but the three ways you can “handle” it have remained the same for a long time. Take the time to consider your options and make the best one for you, your lifestyle, and most importantly, your unborn child. Don’t be afraid to seek out support in helping make this decision. No matter what decision you feel you need to make, there are people who will understand your reasoning. I don’t need to remind you how large of a decision it is, but good luck and I wish you well.

If you are unexpectedly pregnant, please consider adoption. Visit Adoption.com to view adoption profiles from hopeful adoptive parents. Visit Adoption.com/unplanned-pregnancy to find guidance with your unplanned pregnancy.