Call: 800-722-7731
Text: 617-777-0072
At 15, your life is just getting started. You may be starting to think about college or the next chapters beyond high school. Facing an unplanned pregnancy now can be stressful and overwhelming. It may be comforting to know that you do not have to face this situation alone. You can also know that you have options, and you can get the support you need for whatever choice you make. You can call 800-722-7731 for confidential, obligation-free information.
As scary as this situation may be, it is important to take some deep breaths and learn about your options and the resources available to you. Taking the step of reading this guide can be considered the start of making a thoughtful, responsible decision.
An unplanned pregnancy can also feel incredibly isolating. You can take comfort in the fact that teen pregnancy is common. Read on to learn about your options as you navigate this unexpected plot twist.
Having a Baby at 15
One of the first options that many expectant parents consider, even when facing an unplanned pregnancy, is parenthood. Although you are young, it is not out of the ordinary to consider parenting your child. But you need to assess your support system. Raising a baby is for at least 18 years. Babies are sweet and fun; raising your child may seem like a cool adventure. Parenthood is considered one of life’s most rewarding experiences.
While the idealized image of raising children may be true, parenting is much more than the precious moments. It is important to remember the realities of raising a child from birth to adulthood. Consider the messier, less fun aspects of parenthood, such as ‘round-the-clock feedings and care. Some children take years to sleep through the night. Real life as a new parent also involves dirty diapers, spit-up and stomach bugs, and temper tantrums. As children grow, so do their needs. It starts with the simpler challenges such as teething and melting down in public but eventually evolves into social/emotional struggles and puberty – something you are still experiencing as a teenager.
Taking care of the above situations is up to the parent. While a sweet little baby may sound wonderful – particularly in pregnancy, the realities are often much less appealing. A parent is expected to handle diaper blowouts and spaghetti-thrown-across-the-room with patience and grace.
It is also a lifetime commitment that will change your life completely. How will you support your child? Will your parents regularly watch the child so that you can continue school? Will you be able to work? These are just a few of the questions to ask yourself when considering this decision.
Having an Abortion at 15
Being pregnant at 15 is not something many teens imagine for themselves during their high school years. Your body is still developing, and it can be hard enough to experience the changes, never mind the changes that happen during pregnancy. You may be considering termination. It is important to speak with a healthcare professional before making this decision. A doctor can give you the risks and side-effects associated with abortion so that you can weigh this decision for yourself. No one should pressure you into any decision regarding your pregnancy. Only you can determine what is best for you and your body.
Abortion may be right for you if you do not wish to – or cannot – carry the pregnancy to term. Access to abortion care has changed dramatically since Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022. Depending on your state, there may be restrictions or bans regarding abortion care. If you live in a state that has banned abortion, you may still be able to obtain an abortion – safely and legally – by traveling to another state. There are many resources available that can help with transportation and costs associated with this endeavor.
Placing a Baby for Adoption at 15
Another good option for unplanned pregnancy is adoption. Adoption is a positive choice for anyone who is not yet ready – or able – to raise a child. If you want to ensure that your child is healthy and well-cared for, you may want to consider adoption.
Adoption offers many benefits for teen expectant/birth mothers. It offers the freedom to pursue your own goals in life, while knowing your child is safe and loved. With open adoption, this choice does not have to mean “goodbye forever.” You can make an adoption plan that allows you to stay connected with your baby’s adoptive family over the years, building a relationship with both the adoptive parents and – eventually – your child.
It is important to note that open adoption is not co-parenting. Birth mothers who make an adoption plan do not have any parental rights or responsibilities for their child, but they can build a meaningful relationship with the child’s family and see them grow over the years.
The first step to take when considering this option is to contact a full-service private adoption agency. This professional can guide you through the adoption process and offer you supportive services – at no cost to you. These services include professional counseling, legal services, adoption planning assistance, medical care, financial assistance as needed, and ongoing support. Making an adoption plan is a loving decision, but it is a commitment. You must carry the child to term, experience labor and delivery, and recover from the experience – physically and emotionally.
Anyone who is pregnant – at any age – may choose adoption. You do not need permission from a parent or guardian to place your child for adoption. The choice is yours and yours alone, but you can get support every step of the way. That support is offered by a reputable and experienced adoption agency – all at no cost to you.
Learn More About Adoption
If you are 15 and pregnant and trying to figure out what to do, contact Adoptions With Love. We can offer you information and guidance – commitment-free. Call 800-722-7731, text (confidentially) 617-777-0072, or contact us online. If you choose adoption, we can support you every step of the way throughout the adoption journey.
