Life is full of challenges. We imagine an unplanned pregnancy was not one you thought you’d have to deal with. But here you are, and you have a big decision to make. Only you can choose whether abortion or adoption is right for you, but you don’t have to decide alone. We’re here to help you.
How Do I Decide?
These two options’ outcomes are very different, but that doesn’t make one easier. The best way to decide is to learn as much as possible about both outcomes. When you have the facts, you can make a confident choice.
Is Abortion the Right Choice?
Abortion is the termination of a growing pregnancy. An abortion provider prescribes drugs for medical abortion (the abortion pill) or performs a surgical procedure. How far along you are in your pregnancy determines which type of abortion you qualify for.
The FDA has approved the drugs for medical abortion only through the 10th week of pregnancy. According to Georgia law, abortion is legal until a fetal heartbeat is detected, usually around the 5th or 6th week.
What If I Don’t Know When I Got Pregnant?
Ultrasound is the most accurate way to determine how long you have been pregnant. An ultrasound shows how long you have been pregnant if your pregnancy is growing with a detectable heartbeat, and where it is located.
At First Choice Georgia Pregnancy Clinic, we provide free ultrasounds once you receive a positive result with one of our lab-quality pregnancy tests.
Is Adoption the Right Choice?
Adoption is the legal termination of your parental rights and responsibilities, which are given to the adoptive parents. There are three adoption plans you can choose from. With open adoption, the birth mother (and birth father, if he’s available) make a plan for their child’s future.
The birth mother selects the couple who will raise her child, the environment she wants for them, and the amount of openness she wants in the relationship. Together, she and the couple determine how to contact one another and how often.
If the birth mother prefers to remain anonymous, the adoption agency can choose the couple for her. Another plan, a semi-open adoption, provides privacy while allowing her to stay in touch with her child. There is no fee to place your child for adoption.
I’ve Confirmed My Pregnancy. Now What?
Before you decide, understand the potential physical consequences of abortion. According to the Mayo Clinic, the following are possible physical risks of medical abortion:
- Incomplete abortion (which may need to be followed by surgical abortion)
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
It’s also important to realize there are emotional risks with abortion and adoption. Some women struggle with their choice. They list the following as possible mental health issues:
- Grief
- Sadness
- Feelings of loss
- Depression
Is There Help Available?
Yes, we assure you that no matter your decision, help is available. If you choose abortion and deal with mental health issues, First Choice Georgia Pregnancy Clinic provides a post-abortion healing program.
If you want to take a closer look at placing your child for adoption, we can provide referrals to reputable agencies offering complete adoption support. They will ensure you understand the entire process, including Georgia adoption laws, so there will be no surprises. They will also provide the counseling you need before, during, and after.
Who Can I Talk To?
Schedule an appointment with a trained and compassionate peer advocate at First Choice. By filling out our convenient and confidential online form, we can arrange to chat with you.
The right decision is a phone call away. Let us help you during this challenging season.
