Florida Resources for Unplanned Pregnancy

Dealing with an unexpected pregnancy can be incredibly overwhelming. When that stick turns pink, many women don’t even know what to do next. They may ask themselves: Should I keep my baby? Am I ready to be a parent? Should I get an abortion? Is adoption right for me?

Though Bryan McLachlan can’t answer these questions for you, he can provide you with the resources you need to determine your next step. You can always call (727) 398-0086 to talk to him about your options.

Going through the Emotions

Whether it’s the result of a one-night-stand or a committed relationship, an unexpected pregnancy is often times met with denial, anger, fear, confusion or even joy. You may experience all these feelings at once or your feelings may change from day to day.

This is a completely normal reaction to an unplanned pregnancy. There is no right or wrong way to feel about your pregnancy, but it is important that you acknowledge your feelings. Your gut feelings may help you determine what is best for you and your baby.

Finding Support

Support is one of the most important factors in an unplanned pregnancy. You need someone who you can talk to about the situation. Someone who will listen without judgment and who will give you unbiased advice. People you can turn to may include:

Family – Family is always a great source of support because they will always have your best interest at heart. They may be a little surprised by the news, but given time they may become your best support during this journey. Let them know how much their support means to you and let them help in any way they can.
Friends – Your best friends have been with you through thick and thin. They should be with you through this too. Friends are best at helping you see the bigger picture, providing temporary distraction and offering a shoulder to cry on.
The Father – Depending on your relationship with the child’s father, he may be a great source of support during this time. He is the only one who is truly in it with you. Together you can make the best decision for your child.
Support Groups – There are several online support groups available for women in your position, and there may even be a support group in your area.
Pregnancy Hotline – Our partner agency, American Adoptions, provides a 24-hour pregnancy support line for women dealing with an unexpected pregnancy. By calling their agency, you are in no way obligated to pursue adoption.

When it comes to building your support team it’s important to leave all the negativity behind. There will likely be those people in your life who don’t agree with your decision or who want to pass judgment. Don’t let these people in. Don’t be afraid to distance yourself from them. The only people who should be involved in your pregnancy are those who truly care about your wellbeing.

Considering Your Options

When faced with an unplanned pregnancy, you have three main options: Abortion, adoption and parenting.

Abortion

If your first reaction to your pregnancy was “How do I get rid of an unwanted pregnancy?” and you know you aren’t ready to have a baby, you may want to consider abortion.

When it comes to adoption vs abortion, the only one who can make the decision is you. Whether you simply don’t want to put your body through a pregnancy right now or you want to keep your pregnancy a secret, there are many reasons why you may choose an abortion. Whatever your reasoning, you shouldn’t be made to feel guilty about your decision. The truth of the matter is that 3 out of 10 women have had an abortion by the time they are 45 years old.

However, even if abortion was the best decision for someone else, that doesn’t mean it’s the best decision for you. Abortion is not an easy way out; there are many emotional ramifications that come along with it. Some women have feelings of sadness or guilt that they often have difficulty processing after an abortion. So, if you choose abortion, it’s important to have someone there who can offer a shoulder if you need one to cry on.

Abortion Resources

Adoption

It is estimated that 18,000 domestic infant adoptions are completed each year, meaning 18,000 children are given the chance to reach their full potential. If you know you aren’t prepared to be a parent, but can’t go through with an abortion, you may consider placing your child for adoption. Adoption is a way for you to provide your child with the best life possible while also providing a loving couple with a child to love.

One of the wonderful things about adoption is that it gives you the opportunity to stay connected with your child throughout his or her life. Today, most adoptions are at least semi-open in nature, meaning birth parents maintain some form of contact with the child and his or her adoptive parents. The openness in today’s adoptions has resulted in healthier and happier adoption relationships.

If you are considering adoption for you child, we can help you navigate this journey. For more information about the adoption process please contact Bryan today or continue browsing our website.

Adoption Resources

Parenting

Some women react to an unplanned pregnancy with elation. These women may have always wanted to be mothers, and though the timing may not be perfect, they are ecstatic about the new life they are growing.

Unfortunately, this excitement doesn’t necessarily mean you are truly ready to be a parent. Here are a few things you should ask yourself before deciding to parent:

Am I ready to be a parent?
Am I responsible enough to be a parent?
Do I have a reliable source of income?
Will my current finances get me through my pregnancy, delivery and postpartum period?
Can I afford everything a child will need? (diapers, formula, clothing, daycare, etc.)
Do I have a safe and stable home to raise a child in?
Will I have support from friends and family?

If the answer to any of these questions is no, you may want to reconsider your options. Parenting is not easy, even for those who are fully prepared. So before deciding to parent, make sure you are able and willing to provide everything a child will need.

Parenting Resources

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When it comes to an unplanned pregnancy, it’s important that you consider all aspects of your situation before deciding what your next step will be. There are many options available to you, but only you know which one is best for you and your child.

If you are considering adoption for your child, please contact Bryan McLachlan confidentially and with no obligation at (727) 398-0086. Bryan can help you through this journey.