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Michael & Laura
Thank you Parent Profiles! 3 months after we activated our profile, we have a baby boy in our arms. We will definately use your site again in hopes of adding to our family. I can't sing your praises enough and tell every adoptive couple I know that they need to use your site. Thanks again! more ...
Unplanned Pregnancy, Pregnancy Options, Teenage Pregnancy
Experiencing an unplanned pregnancy can be stressful, confusing, and terrifying. Pregnancy may be a new experience, and the fact that it was a surprise can leave you feeling paralyzed. However, one of the first steps to dealing with your unplanned pregnancy is to take responsibility. Because you're now in an adult situation, it's time to make some adult decisions. Progressing into adulthood isn't easy, but it's necessary and worth it in the end.
Although we have never been in your position, and I am sure that we cannot fully understand the difficulty of the situation that you now face, we would be so honored to have the chance to get to know you better, and to tell you that we think that you are
The first step to taking responsibility for your unplanned pregnancy is to inform those closest to you. Start with the father of the child and then consider telling dependable and trustworthy family members and friends. If you're a teenager, informing your parents is imperative to your progression, especially if they financially support you in any way. Informing your loved ones of your situation is a way to show you want support and love. It also shows respect. Some people may be easier to tell than others. It may be easier to get your thoughts in order or on paper before you begin. It can calm your nerves and help you stay on topic throughout your discussions. If it does get heated or emotional, try your best to remain calm, and that should help the others to stay calm, also. If you have the need, consider having a mediator help the discussion move along respectfully and kindly.
Another aspect of taking responsibility is to consider your many options. Experiencing an unplanned pregnancy doesn't mean that you're stuck. It may not be the situation in which you wanted to find yourself, but you do have options. Remember that you and the father of the child have the ability and responsibility to make the best decision for yourselves and your child. The best decision for someone else will be different than the best decision for you. However, the best decision in general is an informed decision. And the only way to make an informed decision is to thoroughly study your options, completely understand what each option means and how it will affect your and your child's lives, and how to proceed down the path you've chosen--the steps that will get you to your end goal.
Because an unplanned pregnancy and the decision-making process can be so tedious, overwhelming, and stressful, it may be beneficial to consider joining a support group or regularly visiting with a professional counselor. Remember that taking responsibility can also mean seeking and accepting the help you need. You may need emotional, physical, or even financial support. If you need financial support in order to get on your feet, there are local and government assistance programs that are geared toward single parents, low-income, or those with general needs. Whichever type of support you need, there will be something available to you; you just have to know where to look.
Throughout this journey you'll find many ways to take responsibility. The last part of that journey is accepting your situation, your decisions, and yourself. Without self-acceptance and self-awareness, you can't truly progress and grow. While this journey may be difficult, it can strengthen you, but only if you take responsibility first.
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