An unexpected pregnancy can feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. You may know you don’t wish to parent a child, so what are your other options? You technically have two: abortion and adoption. 

Abortion is a major medical decision and the only option that terminates the pregnancy. Adoption can be emotionally challenging, but many women find peace knowing the child is in a loving, supportive home. Informing yourself about these options will help you to make the best possible decision.

Is Abortion a Big Decision?

Abortion is the termination of a viable pregnancy. Like any medical procedure, it has side effects and risks of physical complications. Abortion can also pose an emotional challenge, as some women report feeling depressed, anxious, or distressed over their decision. 

There are two types of abortion: medical abortion and surgical abortion. Medical abortion is performed during the first 70 days of pregnancy and uses mifepristone and misoprostol. Common side effects include vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping, but you risk developing more serious complications like infection, severe hemorrhaging, or incomplete abortion. 

Surgical abortion is performed later in pregnancy. It uses medication, surgical instruments, and/or a gentle suctioning technique to remove the pregnancy tissue. While this procedure has the same side effects as medical abortion, significant complications such as damage to the cervix, uterine perforation, or infection can result. 

Ensure you’re adequately informed about this decision before making one. Do your research and protect your health by having an obstetric ultrasound. This scan will confirm key pregnancy details that may tell you which abortion procedure you are eligible for. They can also alert you to certain pregnancy complications like ectopic pregnancy, which would require medical treatment. 

Could Adoption Be the Right Choice for Me?

You may wonder how anyone could place their child with another family. Women do so for various reasons, but the underlying cause is that they want the child to have a chance at a successful, happy life. Though adoption can be challenging emotionally, many women report they are grateful their child is in a loving, compassionate environment. 

There are multiple adoption plans; you can even form a relationship with the child and their adoptive family. The three most common plans are the following:

• Open adoption: With this option, you play an active role. You can choose the adoptive family and remain in communication with them. An open adoption plan allows for the most flexibility and level of contact for you.
• Semi-open adoption: Semi-open adoption allows for contact with the adoptive family, but all communication occurs through a third party, like an adoption agency or attorney.
• Closed adoption: The most private option, a closed adoption, means that all identifying records are sealed, and you remain anonymous.

Though adoption may seem overwhelming, resources are available to support you before, during, and after the process. What’s more, you will never pay for any adoption services. They are offered at no cost to you. 

Unexpected Pregnancy?

If you’re experiencing an unexpected pregnancy and want free, confidential support, Sound Choices Pregnancy Clinic is here for you. We’ll provide you with pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds when deemed necessary, and options consultations you need. Our non-judgmental peer advocates are here for you. 

Contact us today to request an appointment.