Bad Time to Be Pregnant? Explore Your Options

Avail NYC exists to be a safe haven for women and men facing an unexpected pregnancy or seeking support after an abortion. We are not a medical provider. 

Unplanned pregnancies are never easy, but they are unfortunately common in the United States. In fact, nearly 50% of all pregnancies each year are unintended.

Despite the frequency, grappling with the aftermath is still challenging for many. Whether you knew exactly what you wanted to do from the moment that second line appeared on the stick or you're exploring your options, know that you don't have to journey alone. When you need a safe, confidential resource to help you make a healthy decision, Avail NYC is always here for you.

Unplanned Pregnancy Options

When you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, you have three choices to consider: parenthood, adoption, or abortion.

Parenthood

Parenting and can be done whether you are single or have a partner. Parenting a child isn’t easy, even when you’re ready to start a family, but Avail NYC can offer the assistance you need, connecting you with access to local resources that can help with both emotional and financial support.

Adoption

Adoption is another option that offers a range of options. Unlike foster care, adoption gives a child a permanent, stable home. Approximately 135,000 children are adopted in the U.S. each year. Many work with an adoption agency, and become involved in the selection of the family. You can also decide what level of contact you're comfortable having with the child and their adoptive family.

While some think of adoption as abandonment, know that you have options and can still be a part of the child's life if desired. There are two main kinds of adoptions: closed adoptions and open adoptions. On one hand, a closed adoption means that the birth parents and adoptive parents do not share identifying information or have contact with each other. On the other hand an open adoption allows the birth parents and adoptive parents to share photos and information freely, communicate with each other, and schedule periodic visits between the adoptive family and birth mother. You can create an openness plan that you feels right for you.

Abortion

Abortion is the intentional termination of a pregnancy, either induced by medicine or a surgical procedure. In New York state, abortions are legal up to 24 weeks of pregnancy. Some people choose abortion if they feel they are unsupported by family and friends, or fear it is an inopportune time to carry a child. Understandably, abortion is a big decision and may cause mixed feelings for many. If you are experiencing unresolved emotions following a past abortion, an Avail client advocate or support group can help you process and plan for the future.

Compassionate, Customized Assistance

 Making the right choice for your future and your body is a deeply personal process. Choosing to have a child, start an adoption plan, or terminate a pregnancy each come with pros and cons, and only you and your partner can ultimately decide the best path forward.

If you’d like help in the decision-making process or simply want to talk to someone during this difficult time, Avail NYC can provide support and guidance. Our highly trained client advocates can discuss all of your options with you in a judgment-free environment, helping you weigh the pros and cons, education on options, and connections to other resources if necessary.

Avail NYC exists to be a safe haven for women and men facing an unexpected pregnancy or seeking support after an abortion. We are not a medical provider.