3 Myths about Teenage Pregnancy and Adoption in New York

Oftentimes, when people think of pregnant women who place their baby for adoption, they imagine young teenagers who are dealing with an unplanned pregnancy. While this is sometimes the case, the majority of women who place their baby for adoption are over the age of 19. There are many assumptions people make about teenage pregnancy, and it’s important to remember that each individual case is different.

If you are a pregnant teenager, you might be experiencing judgement or pressure from the people around you. Teenage pregnancy can face a lot of stigma, but unplanned pregnancies happen all of the time, and you shouldn’t face more criticism because of your age.

We want you to know it’s okay for you to feel scared or stressed, and it’s completely understandable. At Adoption Choices of New York, we believe it’s important for you to have as much information as possible, so that you can make informed decisions. 

Myths about Teenage Pregnancy and Adoption in New York

• Teenage Pregnancy Myth 1: Now that you’re pregnant, your life is over

Facing an unexpected pregnancy is challenging for anyone, but it can feel even harder as a teen. It may feel like your life is over because you are pregnant, but this is simply not the case. You have the power to choose how you want to move forward with your pregnancy and whether or not you are ready to become a parent. 

You have several options moving forward. You can either terminate the pregnancy (parental consent is not required in New York, but it is in some other states), raise your child, or place your baby for adoption. 

• Teenage Pregnancy Myth 2: You’ll have to drop out of school

Whether you are in middle school, high school or college, education is important and can raise your quality of life tremendously. Because you are handling an unexpected pregnancy, you may be worried that you’ll be unable to continue your education. Luckily, the United States has laws in place that protect you from any discrimination. According to Title IX, your school will not be able to expel you based on your pregnancy, so you don’t have to worry about that.

If you’re worried about missing too much school or facing any other pregnancy related issues, speak to a guidance counselor at your school so you can set up appropriate accommodations. The more communicative you are with your faculty members, the more they will be able to help you.

It is important to consider what might happen if you decide to parent your child after you give birth. While it is still possible, continuing your education as a young mother can be difficult, especially if you don’t have a lot of external support. 

If you know that you will want to prioritize your education in the next few years, adoption might be something for you to consider. In the end, it’s up to you to decide if you are ready to become a parent at this point in your life.

• Teenage Pregnancy Myth 3: You need somebody to decide what is best for you

Every adoption journey is different, and yours is no exception. While it is important for you to seek advice from family — especially if you’re a minor– and from professional counselors, you also need to carefully consider your own needs. 

For example, if you have people around you who are pressuring you to raise a baby when you’re not ready, you should advocate for your own best interests. You’ll be more likely to regret a decision, whether it is placing your child for adoption or becoming a parent, if it isn’t something you want personally. 

How to Learn More about Adoption as a Pregnant Teenager in New York

No matter what you’re going through, we are here to support you. We hope that understanding more about the myths about teenage pregnancy and adoption in New York has helped to ease some of your worries. 

If you feel like adoption might be the best choice for you, feel free to reach out to us to begin a conversation about your options. We also have a birth mother blog about topics relating to adoption. 

Adoption Choices of New York is available to assist with your adoption plan. Call us, text us, email us; we are here for you!
Contact Us 24/7: 800-505-8592 (Phone) | 518-478-8420 | Click to Email

About the Author: Alexandra Georgiton is a fourth-year student at the University of Cincinnati studying Rhetoric and Professional Writing, and is receiving certification in Copyediting and Publishing. She has been passionate about the English language for her entire life, and reading and writing have always been her favorite hobbies. She enjoys professional writing and editing because she loves to use her talent and love of writing to make a difference in the world.