When a woman faces an unplanned pregnancy, she often has one thought on her mind: “I’m pregnant and I don’t want to be. What can I do?”

She knows she has three unplanned pregnancy options: to terminate her pregnancy, raise her child or place her baby for adoption in Pennsylvania. But, if she’s like some women, she knows that the first option is not right for her. Whether it’s because of religious beliefs or another reason, some women are just not comfortable with abortion, leaving the last two options: parenting vs. adoption.

Each of these paths is an admirable one to take, and the decision of what to do will always be up to the woman facing the unplanned pregnancy. Whether you are pregnant and don’t want the baby in Pennsylvania, or you’re still deciding which unplanned pregnancy option is right for you, there are always resources and information out there to help. The Law Offices of Denise M. Bierly is one of them; our professionals are always available to answer any questions you have about adoption in Pennsylvania to help you decide which path is best for you.

Below, you will find more information to help you decide how to choose adoption or to keep your baby in Pennsylvania. Only by thoroughly educating yourself can you make the best decision for yourself and for your baby.

“Should I Keep My Baby?”: What to Know About Parenting

It’s more common than you may think for women to say, “I’m pregnant but don’t want the baby” and still choose to parent. Why is this?

For many women, raising their child from an unplanned pregnancy is their first option. They may feel like it’s a responsibility they have to take on, or they may be unaware of their options for adoption. Some of them may even be prepared to raise a child, even though it was something they originally didn’t plan for or want during this time of their life.

If you are thinking, “I don’t want this baby,” know that you should never be forced into parenting a child against your will. You always have options. But, take the time to evaluate your thoughts before making any decision: Are you simply overwhelmed with the shock of your unplanned pregnancy, or do you really not want to become a parent at this time?

You may be wondering how to decide whether to keep a baby in Pennsylvania. This is an extremely personal decision to make, but here are some things to consider while you decide:

• Your financial preparedness: It costs about $233,000 to raise a child to age 18, and the most expensive years are those right after the baby is born. Can you afford to raise a child and provide the opportunities you want them to have? This is an extremely important question to ask, especially if you may become a single mother.
• Your career or education: Having a baby will force you to redirect your priorities and attention to your child. This means you may need to delay your own goals, such as finishing school or working toward a raise, to give your child the kind of life he or she deserves.
• Your personal desire to parent: Even if you are 100 percent prepared to raise a child, you may not wish to at this point in your life — and that’s okay. You should evaluate your feelings about raising a child and whether you can provide the emotional commitment your child needs should you become their parent for the next 18 years.

As you’re considering how to decide to keep a baby or not, reach out to local unplanned pregnancy counselors, family planning centers and other parents to learn more about the realities of this path and whether it is really the right one for you. Remember, even if you originally decide to parent as result of your unplanned pregnancy, you can always change your mind and place your child for adoption, even after you have given birth at the hospital.

“I Don’t Want a Baby”: What to Know About Adoption

Of the women who face unplanned pregnancies, about 58 percent of them end up giving birth — but only about 1 percent of them choose to place their child for adoption instead of keeping the baby to raise. This isn’t a result of parenting being the “better” choice; instead, it’s a result of a lack of information about the adoption process and the benefits it can bring to an expectant mother and her child.

When you place a baby for adoption, you are choosing to give your child the best life possible. They will grow up with parents who are 100 percent ready for and dedicated to providing your child with all the opportunities they deserve. You can move forward with your own life and goals knowing that your child is growing up happy and healthy with a family of your choosing.

It’s important to remember that this decision isn’t one between adoption vs. childbirth. When you place your baby for adoption, you will need to carry your pregnancy to term and give birth. But, if you’re considering parenting vs. adoption in Pennsylvania, you’ve likely come to terms with that decision already.

Before choosing adoption, make sure you’re aware of these important facts:

• Adoption is completely free: You will never be forced to pay for adoption and, depending on your situation, you may even receive financial assistance for your medical and living expenses during your pregnancy. The adoption professionals at The Law Offices of Denise M. Bierly will help ensure you receive the support you need during this time.
• You are in charge every step of the way: You are never obligated to choose adoption, no matter how far in the process you are. You can always change your mind about your decision until you sign your legal adoption consent. Along the way, you can choose important aspects like your child’s parents, your post-placement relationship and more.
• You can watch your child grow up: In an open adoption, you have the chance to see your child grow up happy and healthy with their family. The adoptive parents and you can share photos, letters, phone calls, texts and even in-person visits! This decision will always be up to you.

If you’re considering adoption instead of keeping your baby in Pennsylvania, we encourage you to reach out to our local adoption professionals. They can answer every question you have and guide you through the process ahead whenever you are ready. To learn more today, please call 814-237-7900 or contact us online.