Am I Ready to Parent? 4 Things to Consider Before You Decide
As you process the positive results of a pregnancy test, “Am I ready to be a parent?” is likely one of the many thoughts that crossed your mind.
Being a teen parent is life-changing, with long-term responsibilities that require emotional, financial, and personal readiness. By exploring your options and understanding the realities of teen parenthood, you can make an informed decision about what is best for you and your future.
An unplanned pregnancy is a lot to navigate – especially if you will potentially be parenting as a teen.
Know that you are not alone. American Adoptions is here to help guide you throughout your pregnancy as you determine what the best option is for you and your baby.
Given our 24/7 support, we are always here to provide the information you need, answer any questions you may have, and provide services throughout your adoption if that is the path you choose. Call 1-800-ADOPTION or fill out our online form to speak with a specialist today.
With as important of a decision as parenting as a teen, you want to make sure you have considered all scenarios and impacts. Keep reading to learn more about what to expect being a teen parent.
What to Expect Being a Teen Parent
Parenting, at any age, can be difficult. Parenting as a teenager introduces several unique challenges and potential struggles. If you find yourself asking, “Am I ready to be a young parent?” You may want to consider the following before making any decisions.
1. Are You Financially Prepared to Support A Child?
One of the first things you need to consider is the financial aspect of pregnancy and raising a child. Are you in a situation where you can provide a comfortable and healthy lifestyle for yourself and your baby financially?
CreditKarma.com has a study showing in 2024 the average cost to raise a child is between $16,000-$18,000.
As a teenager, it is unlikely you currently have a full-time job, so coming up with the funding to raise your baby could quickly become a stressful situation. Factor in housing, vehicle upkeep, and everyday expenditures, and it can quickly add up. If you are considering parenting as a teen, having a game plan for your financial responsibilities would be in your best interest.
2. Do You Have a Strong Support System?
Nobody should ever have to face an unplanned teenage pregnancy alone. Being a teen parent is not something that should be navigated by yourself. Before making any decisions about the plans for you and your baby, you may want to evaluate what type of support system you have in place.
- Are your parents open to the idea of assisting you when needed?
- Is the baby’s father ready to take on parenting?
- Will your friend groups or other family members be willing to help?
Having the best support in place throughout your pregnancy and as you raise your child is essential to becoming a successful and happy parent.
3. Can You Balance Parenting with Education, Career, and Friendship Goals?
Every pregnancy is different, but all will require multiple doctors’ appointments, a hospital stay, and more. When you have finally given birth, do you have childcare plans in place, or will you be responsible for taking care of your baby every day?
Are you going to be able to manage your time to still allow you to pursue your education goals, employment, and friendships? Babies require a lot of time and support. Do you have the ability to provide it?
4. Do You Want to Be Parenting as a Teen?
Many people your age are still figuring out what they want to do with their life and are dreaming about their future. Parenting is a large responsibility that can ultimately change the direction of those thoughts and dreams. Babies require plenty of time, love, and support. Is that something you want to do? Is that something you are capable of doing on a consistent basis?
You may not have all the answers now, but these are definitely thoughts and conversations you need to have before making the decision of being a teen parent.
Anytime you would like to discuss your unplanned pregnancy with a professional counselor, we are available 24/7 at 1-800-ADOPTION. No matter where you at in your decision making process, specialists will provide any information you may need along the way.
Options for Your Unplanned Teenage Pregnancy
If you have determined, “I am not ready to be a parent,” at the time this guide was written in 2024, abortion is considered illegal in Indiana. There are certain situations where it is allowed, which include:
- To save the pregnant person’s life or to prevent a serious risk to their physical health
- If there is a lethal fetal anomaly up to 20 weeks post-fertilization
- In cases of rape or incest, up to 10 weeks
Although abortion is not legal in Indiana, you still have options if being a teen parent is not in the cards. Many pregnant teens choose adoption for their baby. Adoption provides a brighter future for everyone involved and gives your baby a life of love and opportunity.
When you choose adoption for your baby with American Adoptions of Indiana, you are in control of the decisions involved in your adoption plan. This includes decisions like:
- The family you want to place your baby with
- Where you want to deliver your baby
- The type of relationship you want to have with the adoptive family
- So much more
In addition to being in control of the adoption plan, you also receive the following benefits:
You shouldn’t have to jeopardize the health of you or your baby because you are concerned about financial struggles – Adoption is always 100% free for pregnant women.
Contact American Adoptions of Indiana
Determining if you are ready for parenting as a teen is as important of a decision as you will ever make. You never have to make it alone. American Adoptions of Indiana is here to help make sure you have all of the information, guidance, and support you need as you determine the next steps for your unplanned pregnancy.
Call 1-800-ADOPTION or fill out our online form to speak with a specialist today
Disclaimer
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