By Kathy Gibson, Executive Director of Journey Women’s Center
Read Part 1 of this series: What I Wish I Knew Before I Had an Abortion: The Emotional Impact Can Be Deeper Than You Expect
When I found out I was pregnant, everything froze. The world around me seemed to blur, and my thoughts spiraled into panic. I didn’t know what to do. In that moment, abortion felt like the only possible option. It seemed quick, final, and like the only way to escape what felt like an overwhelming crisis.
What I didn’t realize—what no one told me—was that there were other paths. I wasn’t trapped. I wasn’t alone. But at the time, I truly believed I had no other choice.
Feeling Pressured and Powerless
Looking back, I remember how isolated I felt. The pressure was heavy—from the situation itself, from people around me, and from the fear of what my future would look like. I was convinced that I wasn’t ready to parent, and I hadn’t even considered adoption. In fact, I didn’t know much about it at all—just some assumptions and stereotypes I had picked up along the way.
One person I trusted told me I had 3 options. She quicky mentioned parenting and adoption but told me abortion was the choice I needed to make. No one pointed me to a place that could provide support or help me understand what those options actually looked like. I felt like I had to decide quickly and quietly, and that led me down a path I now wish I had understood better.
Free Support Available for Unplanned Pregnancies
What I wish I had known then is that there are real, practical resources available for women facing unplanned pregnancies. Parenting isn’t easy, but it’s not something you have to do alone. There are places in your community that offer free support like:
- Diapers, baby clothes, and essential supplies
- Parenting classes and mentorship
- Housing and medical referrals
- Help applying for assistance programs
- Emotional and spiritual support
There’s also adoption—something I once misunderstood. I thought adoption meant giving up or abandoning your child. But what I’ve since learned is that modern adoption is full of choices and can be deeply empowering. You can choose the family. You can choose how involved you want to be. You can even build a plan that honors your role and love as a birth mom. It’s not an easy decision, but it’s a courageous and compassionate one.
Had I known these things, I might have felt more confident in exploring my options. Maybe the outcome would have been different. Or maybe I would have chosen the same path, but with more peace and clarity. Either way, I would have made an informed decision instead of one driven by fear and limited information.
3 Things to Do If You’re Making a Pregnancy Decision
If you’re facing a pregnancy decision today, I want to tell you what I wish someone had told me:
Take your time
You don’t have to rush this. Making a decision based on emotions can end up not being best. Your decision matters, and you deserve the space to consider all your options.
Ask questions about parenting, abortion, and adoption
Don’t settle for vague answers or pressure. You have a right to understand what parenting, adoption, or abortion might mean for you emotionally, physically, and practically.
Find a safe place to talk about your pregnancy situation
Our center is one of those places. We offer confidential, no-cost services to help you feel informed, supported, and never alone. Whether you need a pregnancy test, an ultrasound, or just someone to listen, we’re here. Schedule your appointment today.
You Have More Pregnancy Options Than Just Abortion
Sometimes the biggest barrier to hope is not knowing it exists. That’s why we do what we do—so you can move forward with confidence, not regret.
You Deserve to Be Empowered To Make the Best Decision for You
Making a pregnancy decision is never easy, but it should never be made in isolation or fear. You are worthy of love, support, and truth. You are capable of making an informed, empowered choice when you have the tools and care you need.
If you’re reading this and feeling overwhelmed, just take the next step. Reach out. Ask for help. Let someone walk with you.
We see you. We believe in you. And we’re here ready to support you, no matter what decision you make.