crisis pregnancy

It's Up to You

It is important to remember that there are now two lives to consider. The decision you make in the next few months will affect both of you for the rest of your lives. Sound scary? If your choice is based solely on emotions, it can be.

Look at some of the decisions you've made in the past. Did you avoid the issue? Procrastinate? This is definitely one time that won't be possible. You can put it off for a few months, but not forever. Maybe you're the kind of person who sifts through all the possibilities, then stands firm. Or perhaps you're the type who impulsively changes her mind from day to day.

It is dangerous to form your conclusion right away and then spend a lot of time trying to justify it. Unfortunately, some girls have tunnel vision. Their decisions are already made, and they refuse to look at other alternatives. Frequently, they end up changing their decisions at the last minute. The best choice will be one that solves more problems than it creates and the one most agreeable with your lifestyle.

It is possible to make wise decisions if you know the steps to follow:

  1. Identify the problem.
  2. List alternative courses of action.
  3. Gather information helpful in reaching a decision.
  4. Consider the consequences of each alternative.
  5. Consider the risks in making this decision.
  6. Study your values in relation to how you make a decision and carry it out.
  7. 7.Reach a conclusion you believe is best.

As you follow these steps, it will become highly important to identify exactly what you want to do with your life.

Identify your goals

What are your goals in regard to education or career training? Have you thought about a vocational or technical school? Or is it more realistic to study for your Graduation Equivalency Diploma? Perhaps even think about completing 9th grade? Do you plan to attend college?

How about employment? What are your aspirations: lawyer, secretary, beautician, social worker, mother? And what about a family? Do you want marriage? Children? Or have you decided to remain single? Have you thought about goals concerning your personal growth?

Your financial picture needs to be addressed as well. Will you stay above the poverty level? Be able to afford your own apartment or buy new furniture? What about a down payment for a home or a 10-acre farm?

How would the responsibilities of parenthood affect your pursuit of these objectives?

Background Information

Behind the Scenes of a Teen Pregnancy
A look at the thoughts and feelings she — and you — are going through.

Abortion Risks
While abortion seems like a "quick fix" for a long-term problem, it is a permanent decision that carries physical, emotional and spiritual risks.

Deciding About Adoption
When considering adoption as an alterative to raising your baby, these answers may dispel adoption myths.

Questions and Answers

Why do I feel like this pregnancy has pulled me in so many different directions? I feel so overwhelmed with all the ramifications of this decision I must make. How can I sort it all out?
Answer

My pregnant daughter has her whole life still ahead of her. Would it be better for her to place her baby with a family through adoption, parent her baby or have an abortion?
Answer

Review Frequently Asked Questions

Stories

Things Seen and Unseen
A woman in a white coat walked into the room and flipped on the fluorescent lights, jarring my wife awake. The jarring was just beginning.

Left to Suffer
Abortion can leave a woman feeling more empty and alone than she ever dreamed possible.

Life is Sacred
Sometimes the choices we make bring pain. Thankfully, one woman turned to God for healing.

Taboo Grief: Men and Abortion
It's not something most men talk about, but the ones who've lost a child to abortion bear many scars.

If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.
Share Your Story

Other Things to Consider

Faith Helps
God may be the only person who understands what you're going through.

What the Choice is All About
For a long time it baffled me. I could never understand why anyone would want to be pro-choice. But this past week I finally got it.

RelationshipsBlended Families, Parents and Adult Children

TransitionsPreparing for Adolescence, Empty Nest