If you are pregnant and did not plan to be, you have choices. Many women have made the difficult decision between abortion, adoption or motherhood. You may feel guilty, isolated, upset and unsure of what to do next. Remember that you are not alone. While the choice is yours to make, consider seeking the support of your partner, family, friends, clergy or a professional counselor.
The chart below can help you explore which option is best for you. The pages that follow include more detailed information about resources for each of these options.
ABORTION
May be right for me if...
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I believe that I have the right to choose an abortion.
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I am choosing an abortion out of thoughtful consideration, rather than panic or desperation.
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I can make a decision early in my pregnancy.
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I have considered the feelings of my partner and family.
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I am willing to wait for another time to raise a child.
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I can manage the finances for a legal abortion.
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I am willing to make arrangements for the abortion and necessary aftercare.
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I am prepared to handle the emotional aspects of having an abortion.
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ADOPTION
May be right for me if...
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I believe that I should continue this pregnancy but cannot raise a child at this time.
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I believe this child will have a chance for a better life with another family.
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I am willing to get good medical care, go through labor and delivery, and make adoption arrangements.
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I have considered the feelings of my partner and family.
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I am willing to wait for another time to raise a child myself.
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I can accept the probability of never seeing this child again.
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I realize that there is a possibility this child may re-enter my life at a later time.
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I am prepared to handle the emotional aspects of giving up my child for adoption.
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PARENTHOOD
May be right for me if...
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I believe I am ready to assume the responsibility of being a parent.
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I can accept the physical and emotional aspects of pregnancy, delivery and child care.
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I have considered the feelings of my partner and my family.
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I am willing to provide for my child’s needs for at least the next eighteen years.
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I will learn and practice good parenting skills.
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I have discussed my need for support with those who care about me: my partner, my family, my friends.
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I have considered the possibility that I may have to raise my child alone.
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I can arrange the necessary finances to cover this child's medical, food, clothing and housing needs.
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