Teen Pregnancy Help

Teen Pregnancy: What you need to know

Being a pregnant teenager can be scary and unfamiliar. You may see signs that you are pregnant but how can you be sure? What will you do if you are pregnant? What do you do if you do not want to have an abortion but do not feel you can parent at this point in your life either? Pregnancy in the United States, teen pregnancy and birth rates for those between the ages of 15 to 19 remain among the highest of industrialized nations. Teen pregnancy isn’t uncommon but it’s not something most teenagers plan. Having an unplanned pregnancy means that you will have to consider whether to parent, plan an adoption for your newborn, or you may even be considering an abortion. This may be the hardest decision you have ever had to make. Adoption Network Law Center is a full-service entity that helps pregnant teens like you who are considering adoption, and by “help,” we don’t mean just with an adoption plan. Adoption Network Law Center prides itself on being a neutral advocate for women, helping you make the best decision for your individual situation and answering any questions you may have about parenting, adoption or abortion. If you have questions you can always call us at 1-800-367-2367.

Teenage Pregnancy – Adoption

Adoption is a great option for you and your baby and can be very rewarding. Placing your child for adoption may seem overwhelming at first, but if you contact an adoption professional they can guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. Different parts of the process vary among states, so make sure to research your state’s laws. You have the right to be involved in every aspect of the adoption. Adoption entities will have adoptive family profiles to help you find the perfect family for your baby. If you choose, you will be able to ask the Adopting Parents questions and get to know them throughout your pregnancy. If allowed by state law, some Adopting Parents can also provide financial support for a Birth Mother’s medical and pregnancy related expenses.

Choosing to place your child with a loving family is a courageous decision and will give your child the life that you cannot offer at this time. Feelings of grief are to be expected, especially after the placement. These feelings are normal and not a sign that you have made the wrong decision. For many Birth Mothers, being able to have an open adoption has helped them heal. The amount of contact you have with your baby and baby’s chosen family is just as unique as any of your other relationships. Some Adoptive Parents and Birth Mothers decide that occasional photos and letter updates work best, and some may decide visits on special occasions are appropriate. Whatever the level of contact is, most Birth Mothers agree that seeing their child growing and thriving has helped to reaffirm that they made the right decision. All families at Adoption Network have agreed to some level of openness, but will respect your decision if you feel a closed adoption works best for you.

Teenage Pregnancy – Parenting

Being a parent will have its challenges, but as a teen mom, you may find the disruptions to your life to be overwhelming. The leading reason teen girls drop out of school is to take on the responsibility of parenting. More than 50% of teen mothers never graduate from high school, and less than 2% of teen moms earn a college degree by age 30. According to the latest annual report from the US Department of Agriculture, the average cost of raising a child until age 18 is approximately $245,340. Nearly 80% of fathers do not marry the teen mother of their child and pay less than $800 annually in child support. Becoming a parent comes with many sacrifices, and it’s an enormous responsibility. Of course, you will want to ensure that your child is raised in a safe and positive environment. While making this decision, think of your needs and the best interests of your child. Listed below are questions to go over before making the choice to parent.

• Is the baby’s father willing and available to help provide care?
• How will you afford to take care of your baby?
• How will you provide for your baby’s medical care?
• Will you be able to continue your schooling or maintain a job?
• Who will provide child care when you’re away?
• Have you considered the impact to your social life or personal goals?
• Do you have a strong support system that you can rely on?

Teenage Pregnancy – Abortion

If you know you are not ready to parent and you are not very far along in your pregnancy, another option to an unexpected pregnancy would be to end that pregnancy and, therefore, the child’s life. The immediate reaction is often relief, but it does come with higher risk; the unplanned pregnancy is over and you can return to your life and routines. However, many women report feelings of anger, regret, guilt or sadness after an abortion. The emotional toll of an abortion can, and often does, linger throughout your life. The emotional side effects of abortion are usually more serious than physical ones. Laws regarding abortion vary from state to state. Depending on the age of the teenager and the state they live in, it may be necessary for a parent or guardian to sign for the legal decision to end the life of the unborn baby. There are two different types of abortion, medical and surgical. Both must be done early in a pregnancy, up to 22-24 weeks from the first day of your last period. (Laws are under review and subject to change.) For both types of abortion, the exact cost depends on location, the facility, and timing. Planned Parenthood estimates that in the United States a medication abortion costs between $300 to $800 and a surgical abortion (in the first 12 weeks) costs between $300–$950. While getting an abortion is generally safe, there are some medical risks. There are some common side effects as well as some rare and more severe ones. Listed below are questions to go over before making the choice to get an abortion.

• How much does it cost?
• Is abortion illegal for my situation?
• Do I need parental consent?
• What are the laws about abortion in my state?
• What type of procedure do I want?
• How far along am I and how does that affect the procedure options?
• What are the risks associated with each type of procedure?
• How might I feel after the procedure physically? Emotionally?
• How might this affect me in the future?
• Is abortion the only way I can continue my schooling or other goals?
• Do I have any moral or religious objections to abortion?

If you are facing an unplanned teenage pregnancy it is important to know that you have options and to know that you are not alone. You need to take the time to carefully consider all of your options to make sure you are making the decision that is right for you and your baby. Let Adoption Network know how we can help you make an adoption plan for your baby.

DOWNLOAD the full “Pregnancy & Adoption Planning Guide” here