Are There More Options Than Abortion?

When facing an unplanned pregnancy, exploring your options might feel daunting or overwhelming. Abortion may be the only option you’ve considered so far, but you have two other pregnancy options: adoption and parenting. It is important to give yourself time to explore your options and make an informed decision. The good news is that you don’t have to navigate this alone.

First Care offers confidential support and early pregnancy services in a safe space that prioritizes your needs. We’re here to help you during this time.

Your Other Options

The more information you get about adoption and parenting, the less intimidating they may seem to you. Here’s a better look at both of your other options:

Adoption

Many women have a preconceived idea of what adoption looks like. The adoption process has improved over the years, allowing the birth mother to choose what the future may look like for her and her child.

First Care is home to an adoption agency called New Life Adoptions. With New Life Adoptions, you have three main types of adoption plans that you can choose from, including:

1. Open Adoption

You can choose the adoptive family and have direct contact with them and your child. You can decide how involved you want to be in your child’s life and even write up an openness agreement that you and the adoptive family want to adhere to.

2. Semi-Open Adoption

You can still contact the adoptive family and your child, but it will be through a professional adoption agency or intermediary, including New Life Adoptions. The agency will keep your identifying information confidential.

3. Closed Adoption

If you select this type of adoption plan, you will not have contact with your child or the adoptive family, and all parties’ identities are kept confidential. The court keeps adoption records sealed. In Minnesota, original birth certificates can be released to adoptees at the age of 18.

Adoption Considerations

Please note that adoption can be an emotionally challenging choice. While many expenses are taken care of, such as adoption legal fees and medical expenses not covered by insurance, it’s best only to choose this option if you are sure it’s right for you and your child.

Ask First Care about adoption. You will be connected with a social worker that will be with you every step of the way. Learning more about the option of adoption does not mean you are committing to it; the ball is in your court, and you have control.

2. Parenting

Do you desire to parent but aren’t sure if you’re ready? Becoming a parent is a major step in your life that comes with both responsibilities and rewards. If you are considering this option, you may have parenting questions and concerns like:

• What if I’m a single mom?
• How will I support myself financially?
• How will I be supported emotionally?
• What will my parents think?
• Can I continue school/college and parent?
• How do I take care of a newborn?
• What about childcare? Can I afford it?

It’s important to work through these questions and concerns. At First Care, we can help you explore parenting and provide free resources.

Free Options Counseling

To learn more about adoption and parenting, visit First Care. We provide the information you need to explore each of your pregnancy choices in a safe and confidential environment.

Schedule a free appointment to talk through your pregnancy options. Same-day appointments are available.