How to Handle an Unplanned Pregnancy [Get Support and Answers]
Each year, women all over the world find themselves unexpectedly pregnant. Nearly half of all pregnancies in the United States are unintended. You may have taken a pregnancy test at home or you may have gone to the doctor and left with a positive pregnancy result.
I can’t believe I’m pregnant, what am I going to do? Now what?
You are not alone. If you feel confused, afraid or embarrassed that’s ok. The feelings and emotions surrounding an unexpected pregnancy can be overwhelming, but you can get help.
There are three options for you when you experience an unexpected pregnancy:
There are many reasons that women experiencing an unplanned pregnancy choose to parent, place their child for adoption or terminate a pregnancy. Each decision has its own set of pros and cons. Your personal beliefs and needs are important and the decision that you make for your unborn child is always your decision.
In the meantime, if you would like to speak with someone about your unplanned pregnancy options, you can call American Adoptions at 1-800-ADOPTION. We want you to make the best choice for you and your family. Our specialists are available 24/7 to provide support for you in your decision. We offer free information on our website that you can view at any time.
What is an Unplanned Pregnancy in Missouri?
“I was afraid and worried the plan B pill I took two weeks before didn’t work. So I picked up a pregnancy test while I was there [at Walgreens]. I went home and took the test….Positive.” — Tiffany, a birth mother who worked with American Adoptions.
The definition of an unplanned pregnancy is the accidental conception of a child. People view unexpected pregnancy in many ways, but you may be able to understand that no one is at fault. Yes, your unplanned pregnancy in Missouri is surprising and emotional, but some have found a bright side of unexpected pregnancy. Whether you are considering parenting, placing the child for adoption or pregnancy termination, your experience is unique and your choice is yours to make.
Once you get through the stress and emotions of making a decision for your unplanned pregnancy, you will be OK. The path that follows your decision can be fulfilling and provide a sense of growth and understanding. No matter which option you choose, you can get the support and advice that you need to move forward with confidence.
American Adoptions is more than just an adoption agency. Our adoption specialists understand that you are considering your options for your unplanned pregnancy in Missouri, and we will help you understand the potential benefits of adoption for yourself and your child. You can call us at 1-800-ADOPTION at any time. You can also get free information online today.
How Can Unplanned Pregnancy in Missouri Affect You?
You may know your options for your unplanned pregnancy in Missouri and you may want to know more about each option. Each of your three options can bring you the happiness and satisfaction that you deserve. American Adoptions has created a list of questions that women ask when faced with an unplanned pregnancy. We also provide the answers that you need.
Parenting in Missouri
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What if I want to keep my baby? You always have the option of raising your baby, even for an accidental pregnancy. If you have answered ‘yes’ to the question of wanting to become a parent then you can find helpful parenting tips.
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How much does it cost to raise a child? Raising a child does have associated costs, and it may be helpful to see that cost in numbers. A middle-income, married couple can expect to spend around $284,570 to raise a child from birth to age 17. If you want to raise your child but you need assistance, you can contact your state’s child welfare department and learn about financial assistance programs.
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How do I prepare to raise a second child? If you are raising or have already raised a child, then you may have many of the resources, knowledge and information that you need. It will be important to review your financial situation. Once you prepare your financial budget, then you can purchase the resources you need for your baby and prepare to share your time with both of your children.
When you choose to parent, you are in for many positive and rewarding experiences. You will give love to your child and you will receive love in return. If you are excited about the preparation for becoming a parent because of an unexpected pregnancy, then parenting could be the best option for you.
Adoption in Missouri
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What if I don’t want my baby but I don’t want abortion either? “Giving a baby up” for adoption is not giving up on your baby. Adoption is a gift of love for birth mom, hopeful families and adoptees. You want the best for your baby, and that’s why you’re considering adoption. Before you begin the adoption process, you should know if adoption is right for you and your family. You can contact an adoption agency, like American Adoptions, to speak with an adoption specialist and to create an adoption plan. You can learn about many hopeful parents and their families through family profiles. American Adoptions creates a family video profile for all of our prospective adoptive parents.
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Why do birth parents “give their child up” for adoption? There are many reasons that birth parents choose to place their child for adoption after an unplanned pregnancy. The most common reasons are not being ready for parenting, not being financially stable and not wanting children. It is ok to not want to keep your baby. You can choose to place your child for adoption at any stage in your pregnancy and even after the baby is born.
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If I already have children, can I “give my baby up” for adoption? Yes, you can place your child for adoption even if you are already raising a child. The reasons for placing a second or third child for adoption are usually due to personal circumstances like special needs and financial instability. If you experience an unplanned pregnancy and you believe your family is already complete, then adoption is always an option for your baby.
Abortion in Missouri
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What if I don’t want to be pregnant? It is okay to not want to be pregnant. Just because you have discovered an unplanned pregnancy doesn’t mean you have to stay pregnant. Pregnancy is physically and emotionally demanding. In instances of severe risk to the mother’s health, abortion may be required.
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Is abortion legal in Missouri? Yes, abortion is legal in Missouri and all over the United States. However, each state has its own rules and restrictions. When you choose abortion in Missouri, you will likely receive state-directed counseling, wait for 72 hours before the abortion can begin and have your legal guardians consent if you are a minor.
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How much does abortion cost in Missouri? An abortion in the United States can cost from $0 to $1,000 or more. This range depends on where you live, the type of abortion and at what stage you are in your pregnancy. In St. Louis, MO you may typically pay anywhere from $350 to $2100. Again, this cost range is dependent on your situation.
If you decide that you do not want to be pregnant then you can choose abortion. Most women who choose abortion do not regret their decision. If you need support after an abortion, there are resources and help for you.
I Live in Missouri, I’m Pregnant and I Don’t Know What to Do
“I contacted American Adoptions and they were kind, caring and showed me a great deal of understanding.” — Heather, a birth mother who worked with American Adoptions.
If you don’t have a support system, you can find the help you need for your unplanned pregnancy in Missouri. If you have the support of your family during an unplanned pregnancy, that’s great. Having a support system to lean on during this time in your life can make your decision easier and more fulfilling.
Your safety and health are the most important priorities when dealing with an unplanned pregnancy. You may want to reach out to us at American Adoptions because we can provide unplanned pregnancy counseling and information. You can make the best choice for your unplanned pregnancy with our help. There are also additional resources for you in Missouri to help you sort through your emotions and options for an unplanned pregnancy.
You can call American Adoptions today to speak with a specialist at 1-800-ADOPTION. We also provide free information when you contact us online at any time.
Disclaimer
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