We’re glad you’re asking this question. Often, when women are faced with an unexpected pregnancy, they think their only option is abortion. The good news is you have two other options: make an adoption plan or choose to parent.
There are many resources to help you if you choose either option. Let’s take a closer look.
Placing Your Child for Adoption
You may be thinking, “There is no way I could give my child up for adoption.” The truth is, you aren’t “giving up your child.” You’re giving your child the gift of a future that you’re unable to provide them at this time.
You love your child and want what’s best for them, but it’s because of that love that choosing adoption can be difficult. However, today’s adoption process gives the expectant mother the ability to make all the decisions.
What Is Adoption?
Adoption is the legal transfer of all parenting rights and responsibilities from the biological parents to the adoptive parents. It is not co-parenting.
What Are My Rights As the Expectant Mother?
Today’s adoption process is significantly different from what it was even a few decades ago. Here are your rights as the expectant mother or as a birth mother. You have the right to:
- Receive a thorough explanation of the adoption process to ensure you understand every step.
- Pay nothing for adoption agency services.
- Select the potential adoptive couple who will raise your child.
- Have all counseling, medical, and legal fees covered.
- Receive transportation to and from doctors, meals, and lodging related to your pregnancy (under Minnesota law).
- Necessary living expenses to maintain an adequate standard of living (under Minnesota law).
- Select the adoption plan that offers the amount of contact you wish to have with your child and their adoptive family.
- Have the freedom to change your mind at any time until legal papers are signed.
Choosing to Parent Your Child
You might be thinking, “There is no way I could afford to parent a child.” Parenting today can be expensive, but you may be surprised at the numerous services available to support you.
SouthWest Options for Women offers assistance, as does the Eden Prairie community. Here is a list of some services to help you successfully parent.
Services from SouthWest Options:
- Free prenatal and childbirth education.
- Free parenting classes.
- One-on-one mentoring to provide individual attention to your parenting needs.
- Free fatherhood program.
- Free job skills training.
- Material assistance program, which includes help paying rent, finding a home, baby necessities like diapers, and much more.
Services Available in Our Community:
- Minnesota Food Helpline.
- Womankind, Inc.
- Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP)
- Metro Women’s Center.
- Women Advocates.
How Do I Decide?
Choosing how to handle your unexpected pregnancy is one of the most significant decisions you will make in life. It’s not a one-time choice. It’s a lifetime decision.
The caring client advocates at SouthWest Options for Women can help you. We are happy to talk with you and help you formulate a plan. You are not alone in your pregnancy journey.
We are not a licensed child-placing agency, but we can provide referrals to reputable adoption coordinators who can answer your questions and offer guidance.
If you would like to discuss the option of parenting, we can review your situation and find the resources you need to be a successful parent.
Schedule your free and confidential appointment at SouthWest Options today. We’re here for you.
SouthWest Options for Women does not perform or refer for abortion.