Navigating your pregnancy options can be emotionally and physically draining, especially if you’re doing this for the first time. You may be unsure of the options you have and the support available to you.
We’re here to clear up any confusion and help you better understand whether abortion or adoption may be right for you. They’re both significant decisions, so you deserve to have the facts. Continue reading to learn more.
Is Abortion the Best Choice?
You may have heard about abortion, and perhaps you even know someone who’s had one. Abortion is a big decision with emotional and physical consequences.
There are two main types of abortion procedures: medical abortion and surgical abortion. Medical abortion is performed during the first 70 days of pregnancy and uses mifepristone and misoprostol to end a pregnancy. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a hormone that sustains a pregnancy. Misoprostol causes uterine contractions and expels the pregnancy tissue from the uterus.
Side effects are associated with medical abortion, including abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding.
Surgical abortion occurs later in pregnancy and can refer to one of several procedures, the most common being dilation and curettage (D & C). This method uses a combination of medication, surgical instruments, and a suctioning technique to end and remove the pregnancy. This abortion procedure can also cause cramping and bleeding, though risks such as infection or perforation of the uterus can occur. These risks, however, are rare.
Before you decide to have an abortion, educate yourself on the possible risks and complications. Some women struggle emotionally after having an abortion, so you’ll need to consider how your mental health may be impacted.
What Should I Know About Adoption?
Adoption allows women to choose an adoptive family for their child, play an active role in the adoption process, and know that their child is loved. It can be a difficult decision, and some women find it very challenging. But support exists to help birthmothers and adoptive families through the process.
There are three main types of adoption plans:
- Open adoption: A popular plan, the woman can form a relationship with the child and adoptive family.
- Semi-open adoption: Communication between the woman and adoptive family is conducted through a third party, such as an adoption agency or attorney.
- Closed adoption: This plan allows for anonymity. No communication occurs, and all identifying records are sealed.
Many reputable adoption agencies offer emotional and material support should you choose this option. Moreover, the birth mother never pays for any part of the adoption process. Though adoption can be challenging and emotional, community resources exist to help you along this journey and provide the assistance you deserve.
No-Cost, Confidential Help
Informed Choices Women’s Center is here to help you during the pregnancy decision process. Your first appointment, conducted by a registered nurse, allows us to identify your needs. We are committed to offering you compassionate services amid your unexpected pregnancy.
Contact us today to learn more. You can also reach us at 870-424-4673 (Mountain Home) or 870-280-3169 (Harrison).