Where to Get Help for a Crisis Pregnancy

Discovering an unplanned pregnancy can be completely overwhelming – especially if you are not ready to become a parent. If you have just found out you are pregnant, you may feel as though you are in complete crisis. You may feel like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders. More than anything, you need someone to talk to and trust in, without judgment or pressure, who can help you through this difficult time.

The good news is that there are many reputable – and affordable – sources to turn to for help. Here, we will explore how to find and choose a trustworthy agency or clinic to go to for support. We hope that by the end of this read, you will feel empowered and equipped with the knowledge needed to get the help you deserve.

A Note on “Crisis Pregnancy Centers”

When searching for unplanned pregnancy help, you may stumble upon “crisis pregnancy centers” (CPCs). These are also known as pregnancy resource centers. Many women turn to these types of centers because they feel they are, indeed, in crisis and need guidance with their circumstances. Many of these crisis pregnancy centers are non-profit, pro-life Christian organizations. The professionals who work there may try to dissuade you from terminating your pregnancy, but can offer you helpful information, such as how to care for yourself during pregnancy. They can also provide you with literature and referrals for adoption agencies.

Not all crisis pregnancy centers are the same. Some offer prenatal services, such as pregnancy testing, sonograms, and other health-related services. Of course, this is not the norm, as most CPCs are not qualified or equipped with the resources to offer you these services. Some will offer straight and honest information, while many others will place a lot of pressure on you to carry the baby to term, whether it be to parent or place the child for adoption. If this is the kind of crisis pregnancy center in your town, you may feel more comfortable finding an alternative resource. These centers can be helpful for some but are not the right fit for everyone. Just as every woman is unique, every woman has a different pregnancy journey, different beliefs, and different wishes for herself and her child. As an expectant mom, you know what is best for you and your baby, and you are entitled to a choice.

Other Options for Unplanned Pregnancy Support

If you are looking for a pregnancy center that can help you, but want to avoid a place with an agenda, consider looking for a reputable adoption agency or health clinic supporting women. Planned Parenthood can offer information regarding pregnancy and termination. State-funded programs, such as WIC (Women, Infants and Children) Services, can offer medical and nutritional services for women and babies at zero cost to the mother. A credible and trustworthy adoption agency can provide you with information on all  your options, guide you through the adoption process (if you make this choice), and counsel you through this journey, without judgment or pressure. Adoption agencies also offer financial assistance and help finding medical care for expectant/birth mothers considering adoption.

An adoption agency, such as Adoptions With Love, can also equip you with the knowledge you need to make the best decision for you and your baby. Should you decide to make an adoption plan for your child, you will be able to select the adoptive parents to raise him. After discussing your dreams and desires for your child’s upbringing, your social worker will offer you profiles of waiting adoptive families. These families have been carefully screened and deemed ready to raise a baby. You can meet the families in person before making your decision.

You can also decide on the level of openness you wish to have (if any) with your child’s adoptive family over the years. Most adoptions today are “open adoptions,” meaning there is some level of ongoing communication between the birth parent and adoptive family. At Adoptions With Love, all adoptive families agree to at least semi-open adoptions, in which letters and photos are exchanged through the agency. Choosing adoption does not have to mean “goodbye.” In fact, it provides the possibility for a great life for both baby and mother, with opportunity for reunion in the future.

Of course, at the end of the day, the decision is ultimately yours to make. No one can tell you what choice to make as you face this unexpected pregnancy. It may serve you well to explore  some of the reliable adoption agencies in your area for more information. Remember that Adoptions With Love works nationwide. Whether you just found out you are pregnant, are in your third trimester, or have already given birth, we are here for you.

As you begin to explore your options, remember that you do have some time. If you are considering adoption, you are not on a tight deadline. Many expectant mothers make their decision final right from the hospital bed – or even after bringing baby home! You should not feel rushed as you make up your mind. Take another deep breath, and rest assured that you can take each step at your own pace. For more information, contact Adoptions With Love at 800-722-7731, or download our free eBook on facing crisis pregnancy below: