When a women finds out she is pregnant, her life will never be the same again no matter what choice she makes. Take some time to let the initial shock settle. Start by confirming your pregnancy, perhaps having an ultrasound and meeting with a counselor to discuss your situation.  You may want to consider writing down your thoughts, feelings, and fears about each option. Try to get in touch with your values, beliefs, and circumstances. Because you will never forget this pivotal, life-changing experience, you will want to explore every possibility.

Your Choice to Parent:

Being a parent is often described as one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of life. It is a miracle but also a big commitment!  Besides love, the most essential need in parenting is support.

Ask yourself the following questions:

• Is marrying the father a possibility? Why or why not?
• Would he consider pre-marital counseling?
• What type of support could he provide? (i.e.: financial, role model, childcare)
• How would my family help? (i.e.: financially, childcare, living arrangements)
• Could I live with family or another single mom?
• How could I share responsibilities with those I live with?
• What would it take to live on my own with my baby?
• How can I continue to reach my goals to make a better life for me and my child?
• Would I consider applying for WIC, Medicaid and other government programs?
• Have I called the Helpline to find resources in my area that can provide parenting support and supplies?

Your Choice to Place for Adoption:

There are a wide range of adoption plans to choose from, everything from closed to very open adoptions. If you are a Native American, the tribe (through Social Services) has options for you to consider which will insure your child is places within its tribal heritage.  Here are some things that adoption can include:

• You can choose the adoptive family and many details of your child's future.
• You can determine what you would like your relationship to be with your child and the adoptive family.
• Adoptive children placed in loving homes go on to become well-adjusted, successful individuals.
• At any point in the placement process you may decide to keep your baby. Every state is different, though most adoptions are final when the child is 6 months old.
• Counseling, support groups and other services enable each person involved to work through the grieving process, issues of loss and challenges along the way.

Your Choice to Have an Abortion:

Though no decision will be easy and each comes with different challenges, gathering as much information on the types of abortion procedures and their risks will help you make an informed decision. Remember that this is your decision, even though other's opinions may matter.

Ask yourself the following questions:

• Am I informed of each procedure and its risks?  See our abortion information page.
• What are my state's laws regarding the time I may have an abortion preformed?
• Is there anyone pressuring me to have an abortion or not to have an abortion?
• Have I talked with someone who has been through an abortion to discuss their experience?