Hear your own voice when deciding between adoption and abortion
Deciding between adoption and abortion with unplanned pregnancies. Get information from Legacy Adoption Services.
It’s strange. You’ll encounter many people who tell women with unplanned pregnancies what they should do – yet this also is a time when most women feel very lonely. Friends, family and strangers have opinions that are based on their experiences and beliefs or those of others. If you have already determined that you don’t want to become a parent, then you are faced with deciding between adoption and abortion. Gather information from both sides of the issue so that you can make a decision that is your own.
When do I need to decide between adoption and abortion?
Abortion
During the first nine weeks of gestation, or the first trimester, you can choose medical treatment in the form of Mifepristone and Mistprosto pills, commonly called RU486. Surgical options for abortion include manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) or dilation and suction curettage (D&C).
During the second trimester, surgical procedures are your only option. They include a D&C for pregnancies up to 16 weeks gestation; after 16 weeks, doctors must use dilation and evacuation (D&E) or an induction abortion, which uses a combination of saline, prostaglandins and Pitocin. Third-trimester or late-term abortions are not allowed in many states. If required or allowed, they include the induction method or a dilation and extraction (D&X)
Adoption
You have 48 hours after the birth of the child to decide whether you want to 1) give your baby up for adoption through a licensed adoption agency or 2) keep and raise the child. When you enlist an adoption agency such as Legacy Adoption Services, you can wait as long as you need to select a family for to raise your baby. However, experts suggest that you start the process sooner so that you can take advantage of counseling and other services.
What will my decision cost?
Abortion
On average, the estimated cost of abortions ranges from $420 to $3,300. The price varies, depending on three factors:
- The length of the pregnancy and what procedure is required
- Where you live
- Method of payment, including insurance, Medicaid or self-pay
Adoption
There is never a cost for a woman if she decides to place her child for adoption. If necessary, adoption agencies can help arrange assistance with food, housing, utilities and maternity clothing during the pregnancy. Counseling and legal fees are also covered by the agency.
What reasons do other women cite for deciding between adoption and abortion?
Abortion
The most common reasons why women choose an abortion are financial instability; relationship problems with the father; an unwillingness to become a single parent; and fears that the pregnancy will have a negative impact on her education or career.
Adoption
Women who choose adoption for their unwanted baby often do so because of the same reasons listed above with one difference. They often cite cultural, moral or religious beliefs that discourage them from becoming single mothers. They know that the decision does not result in a permanent outcome like an abortion. Adoption allows you to know your child is growing up and allows you to have a level of involvement that is agreed upon before birth or at the hospital.
The short- and long-term effects of abortion and adoption are as different as the women who make these choices. Contact the compassionate counselors at Legacy Adoption Services at 817-899-5000, or seek other sources. Let us help you find your unique voice when making this big decision.
