Is Adoption Placement or Abortion Right for Me?
If you have recently discovered you are unexpectedly pregnant and think parenthood is not an option, your remaining decision options are adoption placement and elective abortion. Neither is an easy decision, and each comes with tradeoffs.
Read below for an overview of what outcomes can potentially look like for either of these pregnancy decision options.
What Should I Know About Adoption Placement?
The most important thing to know about adoption is that you, as the biological mother, have control of what your adoption plan looks like.
Open adoption allows you to build a relationship with the adoptive family. Or, choose a closed adoption plan where records are sealed, and there is no communication with the adoptive family. It can be as open or as closed as you see fit.
Additionally, there is no financial cost to the biological mother for placing a child for adoption. Some pregnancy-related expenses of the birth mother can even be covered through the adoption agency.
Psychological Side Effects of Adoption Placement
Adoption is a difficult decision. If you choose to make an adoption plan, choose an agency or adoption specialist who offers the emotional support of an adoption counselor. Open adoption allows a relationship with the adoptive family, which can have a positive mental influence.
However, be aware that adoption can affect you, and be sure to have proper support and counseling before, during, and after placement.
Some women report feelings of grief and loss, or experience postpartum depression.
What Do I Need to Know About Abortion?
Abortion may seem like the quickest solution for an unplanned pregnancy. However, be aware of the often underreported physical and psychological risks.
Regarding expenses, the cost varies widely and it will depend on what is covered by your insurance provider. In the state of Kansas, medication abortions can cost up to $800 and, in general, surgical abortion can be up to $2000.
Potential Risks Of Surgical Abortion
The Mayo Clinic lists the following as potential risks of surgical abortion:
- Perforation of the uterus
- Damage to the cervix
- Infection
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
Potential Risks Of Medical Abortion
If you are early enough in your pregnancy for a medical abortion, there are some other potential risks to be aware of as well. The Mayo Clinic lists the following:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- An ongoing unwanted pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
Psychological Side Effects of Abortion
Abortion, like any medical procedure, can cause trauma to your body and will require healing. Your body treats it as a loss, and your mental health could react the same way.
These responses are especially important to consider if you struggle with mental health currently. Women who struggle with mental health before an abortion are more likely to experience symptoms of grief, loss, and depression after the fact.
Some women have experienced other adverse mental health side effects after an abortion, including:
Next Steps
Whether you choose adoption placement or an elective abortion, neither choice is easy. We offer no-cost nurse consultations at Liberty Women’s Clinic if you would like to discuss your options in a confidential, pressure-free environment. You can gather medically accurate information, educational resources, and learn about your available options. LWC does not provide or refer for abortions.
You are not alone in your journey, and we are here to support you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation so you can make an informed decision with confidence.
Contact UsThis information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional counseling and/or medical advice.