If you are experiencing an unexpected pregnancy, your first thought might be “I can’t afford this baby.”
The reality is that finances play a large role in the decision of a woman’s pregnancy. A lot of women don’t feel ready to take on the financial weight of providing for a child. If you are feeling this way, just know you’re not alone. Many women have walked through similar situations and fears as you.
You have some big decisions ahead of you. Thankfully you have several options and steps to help you make the best decision for you and your pregnancy.
What to do when you are pregnant and can’t afford it?
STEP 1: Identify the emotions you’re feeling
It can be easy for our emotions to get ahead of us and activate our fight-or-flight response. That’s why it’s important to understand your emotion’s role in your decision-making process.
Ask yourself a few questions. What are you scared of? What are you worried about? Sometimes strong emotions can sway us to choose decisions that seem best in the moment regardless of possible long-term effects.
Examining your emotions towards your pregnancy and your financial situation can equip you to make an emotionally well-grounded decision.
STEP 2: Remind yourself your dreams and goals are not over
Your unexpected pregnancy does not mean your goals and dreams are gone.
You might already have three kids and are barely scraping by to provide for them. The thought of adding another life into your household to support and care for can be daunting. Maybe you’re in high school and have plans to attend college and land your dream job. You’re probably thinking, “There’s no way I could make any of that possible while supporting a child.”
The good news is dozens of women have been in your shoes and still accomplished their goals and dreams! In fact, according to a recent survey, 42% of parents admitted that they weren’t financially prepared to have a child but found a way to make it work.
Examine your current situation and what bringing a child into your life might look like. How have you overcome challenges and unknowns in the past? How might you be able to do that now?
The thought of raising a child can be financially overwhelming to think about. But it’s important to remember it doesn’t mean your dreams come to a halt.
STEP 3: Talk to people you trust
You shouldn’t have to make such big decisions alone. It’s important to have a support system around you that you can rely on and navigate financial options with.
Think of the people in your life who are your biggest supporters. Who is a good listener? Who do you go to for advice? You might even consider talking to a woman you know who’s gone through a similar situation and learn how she managed to get through it.
It can be scary bringing such a personal topic to the people in your life. If you feel like you don’t have someone you can talk to, we would love to listen and answer any questions and concerns you might have. You deserve a comfortable and confidential place to process your worries and explore all pregnancy and financial options without judgment. You can schedule a confidential appointment today.
STEP 4: Consider all your options
Once you’re in a good place to make a decision and have the support you need, it’s time to explore all your pregnancy options.
1. Parenting with Financial Assistance
Parenting can be a daunting thought, especially when thinking about the financial situation you may be in. Thankfully, there are many government organizations that offer financial help for pregnant women. These organizations offer things like medical bill assistance, healthcare, food, housing, clothing, education, and guidance in finding a stable job.
There are numerous programs that exist to help you in your unique circumstances. We offer free parenting support to moms and dads from the day they find out they’re pregnant until the child turns 4-years-old. Never feel ashamed to ask for help. With help, you can still accomplish your goals and dreams while raising a child.
To talk through financial assistance options, make an appointment with our staff today.
2. Adoption
Adoption is the transfer of parental rights and responsibilities from you to another person who wants to raise a child. Washington State offers financial assistance from the adoptive family to cover medical expenses, court costs, and more.
There are three types of adoption agreements you can choose from.
Open Adoption: An open adoption leaves the door open to build an ongoing relationship with your baby after adoption. You and the adoptive family agree on your interaction. It might look like exchanging letters or regular in-person visits.
Closed Adoption: A closed adoption means there is no contact between you and your baby and the adoptive family after the adoption. This closes the door to your involvement in your baby’s life after pregnancy.
Semi-open Adoption: Semi-open adoption is a combination of open and closed adoption. It allows you to communicate with the adoptive parents to check in on your child’s life throughout the years while still living an independent life.
If you think adoption might be the best option for you, schedule a pregnancy consultation at one of our clinics and we can connect you with adoption resources in your community.
3. Abortion
If you don’t want to carry out your pregnancy, abortion can terminate your pregnancy. This is done through a medical abortion, often known as the abortion pill, or a surgical abortion.
Most women seeking an abortion report not being able to afford the baby or feeling as if the baby would interfere with work, school, or life goals.
While abortion may be marketed as one of the most financially beneficial options for your pregnancy, it can still involve large out-of-pocket expenses. Abortion costs can range anywhere from $700-$1,850 in the State of Washington depending on what abortion you’re eligible for and what insurance will cover.
It’s important to discuss your choices and financial situation with a trusted person before deciding what to do about your pregnancy.
STEP 5: You’re not alone – reach out to our staff
Feeling overwhelmed by something you didn’t plan for is completely normal. Whether you’re worried, scared, or angry, you don’t have to go through this alone. If you would like to learn more about the financial pregnancy options available to you, contact us today. We offer free, confidential support and do not profit off your choice or offer termination services so you will not be pressured into a decision.
All our services are offered to you at no cost and no insurance is needed.
You don’t have to make a decision out of fear or worry. And you never have to make this decision alone. Schedule a free pregnancy consultation today
