An unexpected pregnancy can bring mixed emotions—surprise, excitement, fear, or uncertainty. And one of the most important decisions you’ll face is whether parenting is the right choice for you.

This decision is deeply personal and depends on various factors unique to your situation. Here are some considerations to help you navigate this significant choice.

Think About Your Heart to Parent

The most important question to ask yourself is this: Do I want to parent? If the answer is yes, even a little, you owe it to yourself to fully explore this option.

When thinking about your heart to parent, it can help to write down your thoughts and feelings about parenting. For example:

• What would parenting look like in my life right now?
• Do I have a heart to parent?
• Who in my life can I turn to to talk about parenting?

Assess Your Support System

Parenting can be difficult, but having support can help. Support can be found through:

1. Family and Friends

Do you have loved ones who can offer emotional or practical assistance? Leaning into their presence can help you parent successfully by providing essential support. For example, your friends and family can help with babysitting and parenting responsibilities and give you a safe space to confide in.

2. Community Resources

At Carolina Pregnancy Center, we’re here to support you on your parenting journey. We offer free educational resources, material assistance, and mentorship support to help ensure you can parent confidently.

3. Co-Parenting Possibilities

Is the other parent willing and able to share in parenting responsibilities? If not, looking into his legal responsibilities, such as child support to help with expenses, is important.

Consider Your Personal Goals and Plans

It’s so important to know that it’s possible to parent while pursuing your personal goals. It will just take extra planning and consideration.

For example, if you want to finish school, you are entitled to accommodations to help ensure your academic success. If you choose parenting, talking to your school’s guidance counselor to see what’s available will be vital.

Remember: You will eventually get to where you want to be by taking small steps forward.

Give Yourself Time

No matter what you’re considering, give yourself enough time and space to process everything fully. This will help you make a fully informed, thoughtful decision.

1Avoid Rushing

It’s okay to take the time you need to make your decision.

Self-Care

Engage in activities that reduce stress and promote well-being.

Reflect

Revisit your thoughts and feelings as needed.

We’re Here for You

We understand what you’re going through right now. And we’re here for you.

Whether you’re looking for a safe space to talk and ask questions or want to learn more about pregnancy and parenting, we’ve got you covered.

Contact us today to learn about all the ways we’re here to help.