I’m 16 and Pregnant in New York — Is Adoption an Option for Me?

Facing unplanned pregnancy is stressful for anyone, and as a teenager it can seem even more overwhelming. You may be feeling a lot of difficult emotions right now, and that’s completely understandable. Unexpected life changes are difficult, but know that you’re in control. Navigating unplanned pregnancy and adoption is much easier with support. Opening up to your parents, or any other adult that you can trust, can make your experience more bearable. 

At Adoption Choices of New York, we have trained adoption specialists ready to support you before, during, and after your adoption journey. We believe it’s important for you to have a safe space to ask any questions about adoption, even if you aren’t yet sure if adoption is right for you.

What are My Teenage Pregnancy Adoption Options?

Facing any tough situation becomes easier when you know that you have options. You have the right to make educated choices about your unexpected pregnancy, and there is no one size fits all answer.

Just like any other person facing unplanned pregnancy, you have the final say. You’re in control of your future, and you have the power to choose what’s best for you. You can either raise your child, terminate your pregnancy, or place your baby for adoption. In the state of New York, you are legally able to choose any of these options, even without parental consent, but this varies from state to state.

Is Adoption Right for Me as a Teen?

It can be difficult to decide if adoption is the best choice. One great way to figure out if adoption is right for you is by asking yourself important questions. Here are a few to help you get started.

• Do You have the Necessary Support and Resources to Raise a Child?

Raising a child requires a lot of resources and support. Childcare is also something you’ll need to consider. You might have to get a job or rely on your parents for a few years. If you don’t think it’s possible to raise a child right now, that is perfectly okay. Adoption might be something for you to consider. 

• Is Your Education a Top Priority?

Continuing your education while being a young parent can be difficult, especially if you don’t have many options for childcare. While there are mothers who are able to make this work, you’ll have more challenges along the way. If you don’t want to balance motherhood and school right now, that’s a valid reason to choose adoption.

• What are Your Long Term Goals?

Everyone has goals they want to accomplish at certain points in their life. You may be wondering how you’ll achieve your dreams while taking care of a baby. Maybe you want to travel across Europe when you turn 18, move across the country, or open a business. No matter what your plans are, you can choose adoption if you’re not ready to sacrifice your plans for the future.

• Are You Ready to be a Parent?

Parenthood is hard. Children require a lot of attention, emotional energy, and dedication. You may want to be a parent in five or ten years, or maybe you never wanted to be a parent at all. No matter your reasoning, you have the right to create your own timeline. So, if parenthood isn’t a viable option, adoption might be.

How to Begin the Adoption Process if You’re 16 and Pregnant in New York

It’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Thousands of women face unplanned pregnancy every year, and there’s no reason to feel ashamed. You’re strong, and the fact that you’re researching your options shows that you’re carefully considering your future. If you want to learn more about adoption, feel free to check out our website and birth mother blog.

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.