Getting pregnant while in high school or college likely wasn’t part of your plan. Maybe you feel like your life is over, you need to drop out of school, or choose a different career.

Before you make any big decisions, take a deep breath. We’re here for you and can provide the information you need to make the best decision for your life – both now and in the future.

Questions For You to Consider

A pregnancy while in school definitely poses more challenges. You have much to consider, such as:

  • Are you ready to be a parent?
  • How does your boyfriend feel? Will he be in the picture long term?
  • If you choose to parent, what kind of support system will you have?
  • Are your parents supportive of you?
  • Have you carefully researched each of your options?
  • Will you be able to afford childcare or do you have family who can help?

While a pregnancy in this stage of your life may feel overwhelming, it’s also not impossible! The most important thing you can do right now is explore all of your options so you can make a fully-informed decision. It’s important to make a decision with your future in mind, even though what’s happening to you right now feels more pressing and urgent.

Pregnancy Options While in School

For any unplanned pregnancy, there are three options you can choose from: Abortion, adoption, or parenting. Each carries it’s own set of challenges and we can help you understand each one.

Abortion

An abortion is a medical procedure that carries the potential of mild to serious side effects and risks. Most women experience at least mild cramping, bleeding, nausea, and vomiting after their abortion. Sometimes more serious damage can be caused, resulting in a perforated uterus or damage to your cervix, making it harder to have children in the future.

Many women choose abortion because they feel pressure to do so or because they don’t think they have other options. This decision is yours to make, and you owe it to yourself to explore every option.

Adoption

Most women who choose adoption do so because they don’t feel ready to parent but don’t like the idea of an abortion. There are many different kinds of adoptions, and we can connect you to the right people to help you craft the adoption plan that’s right for you if you choose this route. You can choose to be as connected or disconnected from your child and adoptive family as you like.

Parenting

Parenting is always challenging, whether you’re a teen, college student, or someone who was trying and planning to become pregnant. The reality is, none of us ever really feel ready to become a parent, but for all of history, we’ve learned how. While challenging, parenting is also incredibly rewarding.

We offer resources like educational classes and life coaching to help you feel empowered to parent if that’s the right choice for you.

Please contact us today to get answers to your questions about an unplanned pregnancy while in school. We’re here for you, and offer compassionate care in a nonjudgmental, confidential environment.