What choices do you have for an unplanned pregnancy in Missouri? Undeniably, pregnancy calls for making decisions, regardless of how you react to it. Essentially, it’s about picturing your future and deciding the path you want to take. Women who find themselves with an unplanned pregnancy generally have three primary options to consider:
If you are curious about any of your unplanned pregnancy options, you can contact us today to get more information. In the meantime, keep reading to learn more about the pros and cons of each of your unplanned pregnancy options in Missouri.
Which Unplanned Pregnancy Option in Missouri is Right for Me?
Despite the variety of options available for managing unplanned pregnancies in Missouri, each woman may gravitate towards a different choice based on her unique circumstances and priorities. Taking time to reflect upon what holds utmost importance to you could significantly aid in your decision-making process.
Parenting in Missouri
If you’re expecting, the thought of becoming a parent might have already crossed your mind. While many pregnant women find parenting the right path for them, it may not be the ideal choice for everyone. Alternatives such as adoption or termination could be considered if parenting doesn’t seem like the right fit for you. Financial strains while expecting can be tough, and although societal support for expectant parents could be more extensive, there are still resources at your disposal. Local social programs can offer education and necessary resources to help support and guide expectant parents through this journey.
For example, expecting parents may qualify for WIC, SNAP, and Medicaid.
- WIC – A program that provides very specific kinds of foods to mothers to ensure that they and their children have the necessary nutrition to live healthy lives.
- SNAP – is a state-funded program that provides eligible applicants with funding for food. If you are eligible for SNAP, you may also be eligible for WIC.
- Medicaid – A government-funded healthcare program that awards aid based on income levels.
There are also several other state-ran social assistance programs available to you in Missouri.
Abortion in Missouri
Abortion is the medical termination of an unplanned pregnancy and is chosen by pregnant people for a variety of reasons. Abortion and adoption are two options available for pregnant women uninterested in parenting. Some parents may need to terminate their pregnancy because of health concerns for either the child or the pregnant woman. Abortion in Missouri is banned except in instances where the pregnant woman’s life is at risk. However, since Roe v. Wade was overturned, state law can shift over time as the courts address the legality of laws. It is best to get up-to-date information from resources like Planned Parenthood.
If you want help for your unplanned pregnancy in Missouri, abortion is only an option if your pregnancy is life-threatening. If medically terminating your pregnancy and parenting are not viable options for you, then adoption is right for you.
Adoption in Missouri
Adoption offers numerous advantages, including financial support for pregnant women who did not plan their pregnancy throughout their pregnancy. This aid can cater to various needs such as clothing, daily meals, and accommodation in Missouri, assisting pregnant women irrespective of their individual circumstances. Additionally, adoptions can be structured in several ways, typically categorized as either open or closed.
Open adoptions facilitate ongoing connections between birth parents, adoptive families, and the child. The extent of openness in the adoption is determined by the birth parent—it can range from limited contact with occasional updates such as picture messages to a more involved relationship where you can exchange gifts and participate in your child’s significant life milestones.
In a closed adoption, the expectant mother opts not to maintain any form of contact or relationship with the adoptive family or the child post-birth. This type of adoption process is typically supervised by an adoption specialist. Regardless of your personal circumstances, keeping in mind what truly matters to you is crucial. It’s essential that you make the best decision that aligns with the future that you envision for yourself, be it adoption, parenting or abortion. Here is a list of adoption agencies in Missouri:
What’s Next?
If you would like more information, you can fill out our contact form. Adoption specialists can connect you with general information and resources for those facing an unplanned pregnancy. It’s worth noting that Missouri offers a range of alternatives for unexpected pregnancies. It’s imperative that you give yourself ample time to explore these options and make a decision that aligns with your best interests.
