If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, you might feel unsure of where to begin when making a decision.

Naturally, you may turn to those closest to you for advice and support, and while seeking out support is important, you should never let anyone pressure you into a pregnancy decision.

Continue reading to learn more about recognizing pressure from those closest to you and what other pregnancy options exist aside from abortion.

Recognizing and Addressing Pressure

Pressure from those closest to you can sometimes make you question what you truly want for your pregnancy, so it’s critical to recognize and address this as soon as possible.

This pressure might look like passive-aggressive comments about your pregnancy or threats to walk away from the friendship if you choose to stay pregnant.

While you may recognize that your friends are pressuring you, you might be tempted to dismiss your concerns by reassuring yourself that your friends want what’s best for you.

However, when others try to coerce you to make a pregnancy decision, it’s crucial to communicate your boundaries.

Make it known that this decision is yours alone, and ask friends not to share their opinions unless you ask.

Setting boundaries like this can help ensure you make your pregnancy decision based on what you want and not others’ opinions.

Other Pregnancy Options

Adoption

If you aren’t ready to become a parent but don’t want to have an abortion, adoption may be the right fit for you.

The three most common types of adoption include:

Open adoption: You can choose the family you want to adopt your baby and decide if you want to keep in contact with them. You can also choose how involved you want to be in the baby’s life.

Semi-open adoption: You can still have contact with the family and baby, but a professional adoption agency will help manage communication and keep your identifying information confidential.

Closed adoption: You won’t have contact with the baby, and the identities of all parties are kept confidential. The court keeps adoption records sealed.

Parenting

Choosing to become a parent can feel incredibly overwhelming. You may be unsure how you’ll continue to meet your career/educational goals or make ends meet financially.

The good news is that there are various ways to seek support.

A good place to start is by asking for support from your parents, your partner, or extended family.

If those closest to you aren’t able to help, know that LifeLine Pregnancy Center is here to offer support resources.

We provide no-cost material support and parenting education to help you gain the confidence you need to become a parent.

Get Help Today

Navigating a pregnancy decision can be incredibly difficult, but know you don’t have to walk this journey alone.

LifeLine Pregnancy Center offers free pregnancy tests and referrals to an on-site medical clinic for limited ultrasounds. After learning more about your pregnancy, our team can answer your questions, discuss your options, and provide you with additional resources.

LifeLine Pregnancy Center does not provide or refer for abortions.