I’ve Already Had an Abortion and Don’t Want Another One. What Are My Options?

If you’ve already had an abortion and don’t want another one, this is understandable. Every woman’s reaction to abortion is unique, but some women experience mental health complications afterward that can have long-lasting implications.

No matter your reasoning for not wanting another abortion, if you’re unexpectedly pregnant, it’s important to know that you have options. This article will highlight your other pregnancy options, which include parenting and adoption. But if you want to talk to someone and learn more about free, supportive resources, contact ALC to schedule a confidential appointment.

Is Parenting Right for Me?

Parenting might feel impossible right now. Maybe you don’t feel financially or emotionally prepared, or maybe you don’t have the support of your friends and family. While these are all valid concerns, the most essential question to ask yourself is: Do I have the desire to parent?

If your answer is yes, then no matter your current circumstances, parenting might be the best decision. Having the heart to parent is the most important factor to consider when it comes to determining whether parenting is right for you.

Your current circumstances will change. If you take small steps in the right direction (for example, finishing school, landing a higher-paying job, or making connections with other moms), the details that make parenting seem impossible right now will one day be a distant memory. However, if you want to parent and choose not to because of temporary circumstances, you may one day be filled with regret.

While only you can decide if parenting is right for you, asking yourself the following questions can help:

  • Do I want to parent? Or am I at least curious about parenting?
  • What might my life look like if I choose to parent?
  • How might I feel if I choose to parent? If I choose not to parent?

Is Adoption Right for Me?

Adoption is a selfless and loving choice, but it can also stir difficult emotions. When considering adoption, you might be worried about how your child will feel knowing you placed them for adoption. Or maybe you’re stressed about how your family might react. These are all real, valid concerns, which is why it’s critical to speak with an adoption counselor if you’re at all thinking that adoption might be right for you.

An adoption counselor (who works with a reputable adoption agency) will walk you through what adoption looks like and answer any questions you might have. If you decide that adoption is how you want to move forward, the adoption agency will keep your goals and desires center stage throughout the entire process.

When thinking about adoption, it’s important to know that you are in control of the life you want for your child. For example, you get to choose the adoptive family as well as how much contact you want to have with them and the child (and in what ways).

Asking yourself the following questions can help you start thinking about whether adoption might be right for you:

  • What are my biggest concerns and/or questions when it comes to adoption?
  • What kind of future do I want for my child? How can adoption make this vision a reality?
  • How might I feel if I choose adoption? If I don’t choose adoption?

You’re Not Alone in This

Navigating your pregnancy options can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone in this. At ALC, we’re here for you.

Whether you want to learn more about parenting, adoption, or learn about the free resources and services that are available to help, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential appointment with our trained professionals. Same-day appointments may be available.

We have two locations for your convenience:

  • 711 Henry Clay Street, Shelbyville, KY; (502) 647-0300
  • 368 N. Buckman Street, Shepherdsville, KY; (502) 212-2535