You’ve Just Found Out You’re Pregnant
It’s important to realize you have options on how to move forward. Because these options are all life-changing and deeply personal, it’s essential to make an informed decision and be aware of all possible paths so you can choose what suits your needs best.
Your Three Main Options
The three main options available to someone who is pregnant are abortion, adoption, and parenting. Each choice comes with unique considerations and consequences, and it’s important to understand these before making a decision.
Option 1: Abortion
Abortion is a medical procedure that prematurely terminates a pregnancy. There are both physical and emotional factors to consider, and it’s important to be aware of them and address them as needed. Other blogs will go more in-depth on these aspects.
Types of Abortion
There are two main types of abortion: chemical abortion and surgical abortion.
Chemical abortion, also known as the abortion pill, involves taking two different pills that work together to end the pregnancy. The first pill stops the body from producing progesterone, a hormone needed for the baby to grow. The second pill causes cramping and bleeding to expel the pregnancy. In North Carolina, you must be under 10 weeks pregnant to qualify for a chemical abortion. An ultrasound is required beforehand to verify the gestational age and check the location of the pregnancy. This is critical because the abortion pill will not work for ectopic pregnancies.
Surgical abortion can be performed up to 12 weeks in North Carolina. This method involves a procedure to remove the fetus from the uterus. Techniques used may include vacuum aspiration, dilation and evacuation, or dilation and curettage with suction.
Emotional Considerations
If you are considering abortion, it’s important to understand the emotional impact it can have. Some individuals experience intense emotional challenges afterward, so seeking counseling or joining a support group can be helpful.
Option 2: Adoption
Adoption is a great option for women who want to give life to their child but do not feel they can raise the child themselves—whether for financial or personal reasons. In adoption, the mother delivers the baby and then places the child with a vetted, loving family. Gate PRC works closely with trusted adoption agencies to help mothers find the best-fit family for their child.
Types of Adoption
Open adoption: The birth and adoptive families share contact and stay in touch.
Closed adoption: There is no contact between the birth and adoptive families.
Semi-open adoption: Limited contact through the agency, offering some balance.
Adoption can be emotionally complex. Feelings of loss or guilt are common, but many women also find peace knowing their child will grow up in a stable and loving home. You can even choose the kind of life you want for your child—city or suburbs, pets or no pets, vacations, education—these are all decisions a birth mother gets to consider.
Option 3: Parenting
Parenting, like the other two options, comes with serious responsibility. It will change your life emotionally, financially, and physically. It can be incredibly rewarding, but also challenging, confusing, and exhausting. Parenting requires long-term preparation and commitment. Gate PRC offers support for women who choose to parent. We provide referrals and help in areas like housing, food, finances, employment, and more. We also offer education classes and material support to ease the burdens of early parenthood. Our goal is to come alongside you during your pregnancy and continue supporting you afterward.
We’re Here for You
No matter your decision, Gate Pregnancy Resource Center is here to help. We provide information, resources, and support so you can make a confident and informed choice that’s right for you.