Facing a crisis pregnancy is probably one of the most stressful things you can experience in life, so don’t go it alone. Read through this list to see the many options you have when facing a crisis pregnancy.
- Your parents: The next closest human who loves you more than you love yourself is your mother. A mother has a very special bond with her children. This woman most likely changed the majority of your diapers and rocked you through every fever you had until you outgrew her lap. She may be able to offer you some sound advice. Your father also experienced the “fears” and “anxieties” surrounding a first pregnancy. And, quite likely, he has a certain affinity for you and a desire for you to have the best life possible.
- Your pastor: Okay so you are convinced that your mother and father will freak out. That could be. Do you have a pastor or other religious leader to talk to? You may not be aware, but most pastors complete a certain amount of psychological counseling training. Therefore, your pastor should have some tools to walk you through your next steps. Also, since your pastor is not a part of your family he/she may be able to look at your situation without judgement, and he/she will probably be a wealth of helpful information. If you aren’t comfortable with the gender of your pastor, perhaps try his or her spouse. The spouse of a pastor often can lend a caring ear and may be able to point you in a good direction from there.
- Your family doctor: You will definitely need a doctor if you are truly facing a crisis pregnancy. If possible, wouldn’t it be best to consult the doctor who has known you/your family for years? Getting some bonafide medical advice should be a top priority. Your doctor who knows you already is a great place to start. And don’t worry, they won’t tell anyone. They are sworn to secrecy.
- Crisis Pregnancy Center: A Crisis Pregnancy Center (CPC) can offer you a free pregnancy test along with access to resources like counseling, financial assistance, child-rearing resources, and adoption referrals. You should know that CPCs are typically ran by those that are pro-life. If you are looking for a way to carry your baby full term, a CPC can help you choose the best route taking into consideration your individual resources and concerns.
- Another trusted adult: This person doesn’t necessarily have to be someone with whom you are close. But this person should be someone who can be fully trusted in a situation where you are vulnerable. This person could be someone who knows your family and perhaps has known you since you were born. (God parent, Aunt, a family friend).
- Someone who’s been through it: Do you know any single moms or someone who has gone through an unexpected pregnancy? It might benefit you to have a private conversation with this person. Please do remember, it may be painful for this person to discuss something so personal, but if she is willing, you may benefit from hearing how someone went through a similar situation.
Are you considering placing a child for adoption? Not sure what to do next? First, know that you are not alone. Visit Adoption.org or call 1-800-ADOPT-98 to speak to one of our Options Counselors to get compassionate, nonjudgmental support. We are here to assist you in any way we can.
For more help with your unplanned pregnancy and wading through alternatives to abortion, visit Adoption.com.
