unplanned pregnancy
Accident, Surprise or Gift?
Even the most careful family planning or diligent birth control methods can't always prevent pregnancy from taking a couple by surprise. Some couples may feel ready to prepare for a new baby; others may feel overwhelmed and unsure. Or a woman may find herself pregnant—and suddenly without a partner to offer support. If these descriptions fit you, know that you have several paths to consider for this journey.
Parenting
Within the choice of parenting, a couple can choose several options. First, you can decide to raise your child together. Second, the single mother can decide to raise her baby on her own. Third, a family member can care for the child until the mother is able to get back on her feet financially and emotionally. In any of these cases, help and guidance are available in the form of parenting classes, job placement, financial training and more.
Adoption
Adoption is a viable option for both couples and single moms. Two types of adoption are available today: closed adoption, where the birth parents and adoptive parents do not communicate; and open adoption, where various levels of communication are maintained over the years. In open adoption, the birth parents may select the adoptive parents, receive updated photos of their child and share personal information with the adoptive parents.
Abortion
By the numbers, abortion is a popular, though dangerous, approach to dealing with an unplanned pregnancy. If you are considering abortion, it's crucial that you gather as much information as possible about pregnancy, the abortion procedure, the risks and the procedure's physical and emotional effects on women. An effective way to inform yourself is to talk with a counselor at a pregnancy resource center.
Background Information
Abortion Risks
While abortion seems like a "quick fix" for a long-term problem, it is a permanent decision that carries physical, emotional and spiritual risks.
Choosing the Best for Your Baby
How do you decide between adoption and single motherhood?
Questions and Answers
Should I give up alcohol during pregnancy?
Answer
My teenage daughter is unmarried and pregnant. Do you have any resources to help us?
Answer
Review Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
Left to Suffer
Abortion can leave a woman feeling more empty and alone than she ever dreamed possible.
Life is Sacred
Sometimes the choices we make bring pain. Thankfully, one woman turned to God for healing.
Taboo Grief: Men and Abortion
It's not something most men talk about, but the ones who've lost a child to abortion bear many scars.
If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
What the Choice is All About
For a long time it baffled me. I could never understand why anyone would want to be pro-choice. But this past week I finally got it.
Related Topics
Abuse & Addiction: Pornography and Cybersex, Sexual Abuse
Parenting Children: Talking About Sex
Parenting Teens: Sexual Activity, Crisis Pregnancy, Homosexuality
Transitions: Getting Married, Adoption, Having a Baby
