26 Apr Teen Pregnancy in DC, MD, and VA

Teen pregnancy isn’t uncommon but it’s not something most teenagers plan. Having an unplanned pregnancy means that you will have to consider whether to parent, plan an adoption for your newborn, or you may even be considering an abortion. This may be the hardest decision you have ever had to make. Cradle of Hope Adoption Center is a full-service nonprofit organization that helps pregnant teens like you who are considering adoption.

Being a parent has its challenges, but as a teen mom, you may find the disruptions to your life to be overwhelming. The leading reason teen girls drop out of school is to take on the responsibility of parenting. More than 50% of teen mothers never graduate from high school, and less than 2% of teen moms earn a college degree by age 30. According to the latest annual report from the US Department of Agriculture, the average cost of raising a child until age 18 is approximately $245,340. Nearly 80% of fathers do not marry the teen mother of their child and pay less than $800 annually in child support. Becoming a parent comes with many sacrifices, and it’s an enormous responsibility. Of course, you will want to ensure that your child is raised in a safe and positive environment. If you are considering parenting your baby, please consider:

• Is the baby’s father willing and available to help provide care?
• Can you afford to take care of your baby?
• Will you be able to continue your schooling or maintain a job?
• Who will provide childcare when you’re away?
• Have you considered the impact to your social life or personal goals?
• Do you have a strong support system that you can rely on?

Adoption is a great option for you and your baby and can be very rewarding. Placing your child for adoption in MD, DC or VA may seem overwhelming at first, but Cradle of Hope can guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. You have the right to be involved in every aspect of the adoption. You can review parent profiles to choose the perfect family for your baby. If you like, you will be able to meet the family you’ve selected and get to know them throughout your pregnancy. The adopting family can provide financial support for your medical and pregnancy related expenses, if you have a note from your doctor indicating that you are unable to work due to the pregnancy or delivery.

Choosing to place your child with a loving family is a courageous decision and will give your child a life that you cannot offer at this time. Feelings of grief are to be expected, especially after the placement. These feelings are normal and not a sign that you have made the wrong decision. For many birthmothers, being able to have an open adoption has helped them heal. Some adoptive families and birthmothers decide that occasional photos and letter updates work best while some decide visits on special occasions are appropriate. Whatever the level of contact is, most birthmothers agree that seeing their child growing and thriving has helped to reaffirm that they made the right decision.