Considering Adoption

Theresa, The shock of finding out that you are pregnant can bring on a whole slew of emotion, most of which are hard to handle on your own. This place does offer support for those emotions. But let me encourage you to go out and do your research on all options available to you at this time. Adoption is not always the answer for all women who experience an unplanned pregnancy. It is not the easy answer. Of course, one could argue that parenting is not easy as well. There are resources available to Mothers who need help getting on their feet in order to raise their child. I would encourage you to find out what is available to you in your state, in your area before you even begin researching adoption. There's so much available. Best of luck to you. If you feel like discussing your emotions, go for it. Many a woman on these forums has experienced that same wide range of emotion. We can be a support for you. What state are you in? And county? We can begin looking for resources for you and point you in some directions. My thoughts are with you during this confusing time... coupled with the hectic-ness that is the holiday season. *hugs*

Welcome, Theresa, I'm sorry to hear of this situation that you find yourself in and especially at Christmas time. If there's anything I can do to help you or you'd like to talk, then feel free to send me a PM (private message) and I'll be glad to listen and give any support or help to you that I can. Also, I am a Community Moderator here and want you to be aware that it is not allowed for anyone to solicit you to adopt your baby or try to pressure you into letting them adopt your baby. If anyone should try to solicit you in this matter, then please make sure to let me or one of the other moderators know so that we can take care of it. The other Community Moderators here are MrsSmith, echaos, leaabc123 and Crick. Feel free to contact any of us moderators if you have any questions or need help with anything. God Bless. Anne :)

Theresa ... I can imagine the shock of an unplanned pregnancy, but you have time to consider your options. As Jenna said - there are alot of options to consider. The resources are out there - and these boards will offer you alot of support. You have time to figure things out and let the "shock" wear off , whatever you do - please don't rush into a decision ...... weigh all of your options :) Good luck Theresa - and - Wishes for a Very Merry Christmas! Keep us posted! Jackie

Dear Theresa, It was one year ago at Christmas that I realized that my 22-year old daughter was pregnant (unplanned, broken relationship). She had considered abortion, adoption, and parenting but was getting pathetic advice from clinics and agencies (I refuse to call it counseling because it did not qualify as counseling by any standards. Clinic - "Where's the money? You are not sure? Get out. Next!" Agency - "What could YOU offer a child? You are worthless unless you become a birthmother." :eek: ) We found counseling through her school which helped her weigh the consequences of her decision and explore her feelings about being a mother. So .. There is no rush - take your time and get REAL independent counseling so you can make an informed choice. We also found that working on some of the practical issues (finishing school, where to live, how to support her son, health care, etc.) helped her to come to grips with the reality (good and bad) of her pregnancy. I am not sure why but maybe it gave her space to figure out whether she was really ready to be a mother. It is your decision so don't let anyone pressure you in any direction. Good Luck, Happy G'Ma

Thank you ! Thank you for your advice. It has helped me a great deal! Theresa

Theresa, I don't have any other advice for you. The other ladies gave you lots of things to think about. Just wanted to offer you my support and thoughts. (((HUGS)))

Hi! I wanted to say that I decided to keep the baby. Don't worry, the father of the baby is still in my life and he is very supportive. It was a hard decision to come to because of finances, but we can make it. thanks for your advice!

Irish Eyes, I just saw your posts - you CAN do it! Your finances may not be the best at the moment, but, there are many resources available if you need them. And your financial state can change. If you have read these much on these forums, you know that many of us moms who relinquished our children lived to regret it. I am glad that you won't be walking down the path to becoming a birth mom! It is a difficult, painful path to travel (for most of us.) As challenging as parenting can be, living with the loss of a child is a million times harder IMHO So, congrats, I am glad to know that you have decided to parent!

I am glad that you have come to a decision ---- and congratulations on becoming a mommy!There is alot of assitance out there for people who need help .... use it if you need it!Have a wonderful pregnancy and Happy New Year! Jackie

Wow. You must be really in a spin! I wish you a safe, healthy pregnancy. And I hope that whatever you decide, you and your future child find the most happy, peaceful situation for both of you.

Best of luck, Irish Eyes. You CAN do this.

Ah, news I love to hear!! You CAN do it..and you will never regret it...

I'm really happy for you. My bdaughter's 1st birthday was January 12th, and I can't tell you how empty I feel inside, even though I already have two other beautiful children at home, ages 2 and 5. Please feel free to email me anytime at naomirosekay@yahoo.com My aunt is a counselor at a crisis pregnancy center in CA, and I'm sure she'd be happy to talk to you for free anytime if you need to (over the phone). She's a wonderful lady, very nonjudgemental and sweet. Again, I'm so happy for you. When is your baby due? Do you know the sex yet?-Naomi

Congrats! WIshing you a safe and healthy baby! I know it's tough with finances but you WILL find a way!