If you shared with your friends that you’re unexpectedly pregnant and they are now telling you what to do, it’s time to set boundaries.
You are the only one who can decide how to handle your pregnancy because you are the only one who will face the effects of your choice. Friends may mean well, but they may not be around to help when it gets real.
Trust the women at HopePlace to provide information in a non-judgmental, safe space. Schedule a free and confidential appointment today.
Have You Looked at All of Your Options?
Although your friends may think abortion is your only option, it isn’t. You have three choices: have an abortion, make an adoption plan, or choose to parent. Take a closer look at all three:
Have an Abortion
An abortion ends your pregnancy through either drugs or surgical means. Make sure you understand the potential physical and emotional consequences of abortion.
There are two main types: medical and surgical. A medical abortion is also known as the abortion pill. You take two powerful drugs to end your pregnancy. A surgical abortion uses suction or a vacuum when you are in your first trimester (13 weeks and under).
*This option is currently banned in Arkansas, except to save the life of the woman.
Make an Adoption Plan
If you’re not ready to choose abortion, perhaps you could consider placing your child for adoption. It is a difficult decision, but as the expectant mother, you are in control.
Here are some of your rights:
- You can select the potential adoptive couple.
- By choosing the family, you set your child on the future you want them to have.
- You decide how much and what type of communication you wish to have with the adoptive family and your child.
- You do not pay for adoption services.
- Your medical and legal expenses are covered.
- You can change your mind at any time until you sign legal papers.
Carrying your child to full term and releasing them into the hands of other parents is difficult, but not impossible. We offer referrals to trusted adoption professionals in our area.
Choosing to Parent
You may question whether you’re capable of parenting. If you would like to consider it, but don’t know where to begin, we can help you.
Being a parent is one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences. It requires the emotional and physical support of others. HopePlace is here to help.
We provide free parenting classes, material and emotional support, and referrals for many community resources. We can talk about your situation and put together a personalized parenting plan.
Schedule a Free and Confidential Appointment With Us
Get the facts about all of your options. Although we don’t perform or refer for abortion, we can give you factual, medically based information about abortion procedures, the side effects to expect, and the potential risks.
We can be that neutral third party to help you navigate your pregnancy situation with your friends. Schedule a free and confidential appointment to learn more. We’re here to support you, not tell you what to do.
Remember, this is your decision. Make the best one for you and your future.
All information sourced in this blog is accurate at the time of writing.