Question and Answer

Why do I feel pulled in so many directions as I try to decide what to do about this pregnancy? I feel so overwhelmed with all the ramifications of this decision I must make. How can I sort it all out?

Everyone in your life has an opinion, but you are the one who will have to live with the decision you make — for the rest of your life. You need to make sure it's right for you. That's why the people at your local pregnancy resource center can be such a help: They have no emotional investment in the decision and so can be more objective, getting good information and wise counsel to you.

The hormonal changes which accompany pregnancy add to your emotional "ups and downs," perhaps making it even harder for you to logically analyze all the input you're receiving. It's important for you to know that the "overwhelmed" feeling you described is completely normal. The folks at your local pregnancy resource center can help you sort through all the feelings you're having and all the advice you're getting from various sources. You have to take things one step at a time, and they'll help you prioritize for and toward that purpose.

• 
• Print Friendly Version
• e-Newsletter Sign Up

Background Information

Behind the Scenes of a Teen Pregnancy
A look at the thoughts and feelings she — and you — are going through.

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.

Deciding About Adoption
When considering adoption as an alterative to raising your baby, these answers may dispel adoption myths.

Questions and Answers

My pregnant daughter has her whole life still ahead of her. Would it be better for her to place her baby with a family through adoption, parent her baby or have an abortion?
Answer

Review Frequently Asked Questions

Stories

Things Seen and Unseen
A woman in a white coat walked into the room and flipped on the fluorescent lights, jarring my wife awake. The jarring was just beginning.

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

Faith Helps
God may be the only person who understands what you're going through.

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

Relationships: Blended Families, Parents and Adult Children

Transitions: Preparing for Adolescence, Empty Nest

Life Applications

First Things First
If you are pregnant and unmarried, a teenager living at home or perhaps away at school, right now you are probably afraid. Don’t despair. Your future is changed, but not finished.

It's Up to You
Now there are two lives to consider. Sound scary? If you know the steps, you can make wise decisions.

The Benefits of Counseling for a Pregnant Teen
If your teen is unexpectedly expecting, this article might be just what she needs to make a good decision about raising a child.

When She's Expecting
Your pregnant daughter needs you more than ever. Show her your love and support through this time of confusion and heartache.

When Your Son is the Father
Guidance and encouragement can help when your son is involved in a teen pregnancy.