Finding out you’re pregnant unexpectedly can be overwhelming. You may feel a mix of emotions—confusion, fear, uncertainty, and perhaps even hope. It’s a deeply personal experience, and there’s no one “right” way to navigate it. What matters most is that you have the information, support, and resources needed to make the best decision for yourself and your baby. Understanding unplanned pregnancy options is crucial in ensuring you have access to all available choices.

At Texas Adoption Center, we understand the importance of compassionate, judgment-free support. This guide is designed to help you understand your next steps and explore your options with care and clarity.

1. Confirm Your Unplanned Pregnancy

If you think you might be pregnant, the first step is to confirm it with a pregnancy test. While at-home pregnancy tests are generally accurate, scheduling an appointment with a healthcare provider to confirm the results and determine how far along you are is best.

Consulting a doctor during early pregnancy is crucial, as a blood test can detect pregnancy a few days earlier than a urine test, ensuring prompt and accurate confirmation.

Why See a Healthcare Provider?

• Medical Confirmation: A doctor can confirm your pregnancy and provide an estimated due date.
• Prenatal Health: Early prenatal care ensures you stay healthy and understand what to expect.
• Support and Resources: Healthcare providers can share information about your options and connect you to supportive services.

2. Take Time to Process Your Pregnancy Test Results

An unexpected pregnancy can trigger a wide range of emotions. It’s okay to feel uncertain, scared, or even numb. Give yourself permission to process these feelings and seek out people who will offer non-judgmental support.

Consider Speaking To:

• Trusted Family or Friends: Sometimes, talking things out with someone you trust can provide clarity and peace of mind.
• A Counselor or Therapist: A professional can offer guidance to help you process your emotions in a healthy way.
• Pregnancy Support Specialists: Many organizations, like Texas Adoption Center, offer compassionate listening and information about your options.

Remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. There are resources and people ready to support you.

3. Understand Your Options

When facing an unexpected pregnancy, understanding your options is key. Every choice is significant and deeply personal. Here are the main paths you can consider:

Parenting

Choosing to raise your child is a significant commitment but can be incredibly rewarding. If you decide to parent, there are resources to help you prepare:

• Parenting Classes: Learn about newborn care, nutrition, and child development.
• Financial Assistance: Look into programs that support new mothers, including healthcare, food assistance, and housing.
• Community Support: Connect with local groups for new parents to build a support network.

Adoption

Adoption is another loving option, offering your child the opportunity to grow up in a nurturing, stable environment. Choosing adoption means you have control over the process, including selecting the adoptive family and deciding on the level of openness in the relationship. Adoptive parents are the individuals who legally take on the rights and responsibilities of the child following the adoption process, establishing their legal status as the child’s parents.

Types of Adoption:

• Open Adoption: Maintain communication with the adoptive family and your child through letters, calls, or visits.
• Semi-Open Adoption: Exchange updates through a third party, such as an adoption agency.
• Closed Adoption: No direct communication post-placement, and the adoption remains confidential.

Working with a trusted adoption agency, like Texas Adoption Center, ensures you receive personalized support, including assistance with medical and living expenses if needed.

Other Options

It’s important to understand all possibilities. Speaking to a healthcare provider can help you understand every legal and medical option available to you in Texas. Speaking with a range of trusted loved ones and professionals can help you determine the right future for you and your child. Another common path some parents choose is legal guardianship, where a trusted family member or friend cares for the child until the parents are ready to resume parenting.

4. Consider Your Emotional and Practical Needs

Making decisions about an unexpected pregnancy is about more than logistics. It’s also about considering your emotional well-being and practical needs.

Questions to Ask Yourself:

• Do I feel ready emotionally and financially to become a parent?
• What kind of support system do I have?
• What are my long-term goals, and how does each option fit into them?
• What feels like the most loving and thoughtful option for my child and me?

Reflecting and gathering information can help you feel more confident in your decision.

5. Seek Supportive Resources

Regardless of the path you choose, support is essential. Here are resources that can help:

Medical Care

• Find a local OB-GYN or prenatal clinic for check-ups with a health professional.
• Reach out to local health departments for information on low-cost healthcare services.

Emotional Support

• Consider professional counseling to process emotions. Pregnancy counseling is crucial for providing non-biased and non-directive support, ensuring you have accurate information and a safe environment to explore your feelings and options.
• Join support groups with other women who have faced similar situations.
• Talk to a trusted adoption specialist at Texas Adoption Center.

Practical Support

• Explore housing, food, and financial assistance programs.
• Contact local parenting centers for classes and resources.

Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Many women find comfort and empowerment by accessing available resources.

6. Pregnancy Care and Health

Importance of Prenatal Care

Prenatal care is essential for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. Regular check-ups with a health professional can help identify any potential issues early on, reducing the risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Prenatal care also provides an opportunity to discuss pregnancy options, receive guidance on healthy pregnancy habits, and get support for any concerns or questions you may have.

Health Tips and Resources

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy is crucial for both you and your baby. Here are some health tips and resources to consider:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Exercise regularly, but avoid high-impact activities.
• Get enough sleep and practice stress-reducing techniques.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.
• Consider taking prenatal vitamins and supplements as recommended by your health professional.

7. Create a Plan That Feels Right for You

Once you’ve gathered information and explored your feelings, it’s time to create a plan that aligns with your needs and values. Whether you choose to parent or pursue adoption, having a plan can provide peace of mind and help you feel more in control of your journey.

If you choose adoption, Texas Adoption Center offers personalized adoption planning, guiding you through each step while ensuring you feel supported and informed. If you choose parenting, connecting with community resources can make a world of difference.

8. Preventing Future Unplanned Pregnancies

Contraceptive Options

Preventing future unplanned pregnancies requires access to reliable and effective contraceptive options. Here are some common methods:

• Hormonal contraceptives (e.g., the pill, patch, ring).
• Barrier methods (e.g., condoms, diaphragm).
• Intrauterine devices (IUDs).
• Implants (e.g., hormonal implants).

It’s essential to discuss your contraceptive options with a doctor to determine the best method for your needs and circumstances. You can also visit a family planning clinic or consult with a social worker for guidance on pregnancy services and family planning resources.

9. Know You’re Not Alone

No matter what decision you make, know that you are not alone. Many women have faced unexpected pregnancies and have found strength and empowerment through supportive resources and compassionate care.

Texas Adoption Center is here to listen, offer guidance, and provide the support you need without judgment. Our caring team is dedicated to helping you explore your options and make the decision that feels right for you and your future.

Final Thoughts

Facing an unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be faced alone. Take the time you need, gather information, and reach out for support. You have options, and you have the strength to make the best decision for yourself and your baby.

If you would like to learn more about adoption, explore your options, or simply speak to someone who understands, reach out to Texas Adoption Center. We are here to help, offering compassionate care and personalized support every step of the way.

Remember, every journey is unique, and your feelings are valid. Take it one step at a time, and know that whatever decision you make, it can be one made with love and strength.

Contact Texas Adoption Center today to get the support you deserve.

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If you’re thinking of placing your baby for adoption then you’re sure to have a million questions racing through your mind. However, as with much of life, answers can be found in the Bible. This is especially when it comes to beautiful adoption stories in the Bible.

When looking at the Old and New Testament, we can clearly see God’s heart for adoption and orphans. Heartwarming stories of adoption are woven throughout Scripture, from the Book of Esther to the story of Jesus’ birth. With that being said, let’s take a look at four instances of adoption stories in the Bible and the powerful lessons we can learn from them.

Moses in the Book of Exodus

Moral: Although adoption may be hard, it may be the BEST choice for you and your child.

The Pharaoh had ordered the killing of every Hebrew son. Fearful for her son’s life, Jochebed hid baby Moses. However, when she could no longer hide her son anymore, she had to come up with a plan to save her precious child. Trusting that God would help her and save Moses, she placed him in a basket made of bulrushes and placed him on the bank of the Nile.

As hoped, the daughter of the Pharaoh found the little one when she came to wash at the river. She took the baby into her family to raise him as her own, giving him the name Moses. Later on, Moses grew to be a faithful servant of God. He is most commonly known for leading the Exodus of the Israelites out of Egypt and across the Red Sea where he then received the ten commandments.

We can see from the tale of Moses that even though Jochebed’s decision was not easy, she knew what the best choice was for her son. Because of her brave decision, Moses went on to serve God and his people as an important leader and prophet.

Esther Transforms from Orphan to Queen

Moral: Adoption can give your child his or her BEST chance.

Tragedy struck Esther at an early age. Following the death of both parents, she became an orphan. Luckily for Esther, her cousin, Mordecai, invited her into his family through adoption. At this point, she was given a new chance at life.

Years down the road, she ended up falling in love and marrying the king who was enchanted by her beauty. However, after a disagreement with Mordecai, the king decided to not only assassinate Mordecai, but also, the entire Jewish community.

At this point, Esther was forced to bravely plead with her husband to spare her people. She knew that simply going before the king without invitation might mean losing her own life. But, after pleading for the safety of the Jewish people, the king listened to her and removed the death sentence.

In this story, we see how God was able to work through Esther and bring deliverance to the Jewish people. All of this would not have been possible if it were not for Mordecai. Without the love of her adopted parent, Esther wouldn’t have been given a fair chance and could not have freed her people years later.

Joseph Accepted Jesus As His Own

Moral: The right adoptive parents will LOVE your child as their own.

In Matthew 1:18, Jesus was born from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary. Even though Jesus was not his own, Joseph adopted Jesus as if he was. Together he and Mary raised Jesus Christ and became part of the story that changed the world.

In Joseph’s faithfulness and obedience to the Lord, he cared for, supported, and loved baby Jesus just as a natural father would. In this incredible example, we see the extent to which an adoptive parent loves an adopted child as their own.

God Adopts Us Into His Spiritual Family

Moral: The Bible is the greatest story of adoption!

Ephesians 1:5 “God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great delight.”

The story of the Bible is the story of adoption. We are all adopted into God’s spiritual family as a chosen child of God. We are welcomed with open arms and feel the love of His family. In this way, the Bible directly uses adoption as a picture of what God has done for us.

In conclusion, when looking to find adoption stories in the Bible, we find that many individuals have had a calling to either place their baby for adoption or adopt a child of their own. As mentioned earlier, God’s heart for adoption and orphans is seen clearly throughout Scripture.

If you are thinking about placing your baby for adoption, speak to an Adoption Specialist at Texas Adoption Center. Here, we will empower and support you in making the best choice for you and your baby. Call us at 512.518.6171 or text us at 361-461-3742 at any time!

Over the years, we have seen a huge surge in the number of nonprofits popping up around Texas. It seems that quality services are overflowing through several local nonprofits in San Antonio, especially for the youth of the city.

Whether it’s an adoption center or a childhood grief program… these are the nonprofits making an impact. Today, we’re going to recognize a few of these powerful causes. For more on each organization, look at the links below.

1. Texas Adoption Center

Texas Adoption Center is one of the top adoption centers in the state. They serve several cities across Texas and are known for the commitment and love they show to each birth mother and family that walk in the door.

After contacting Texas Adoption Center, an Adoption Specialist is able to care for and support any birth mother going through an unplanned pregnancy. They carefully listen to the wants and needs of each mother to design an adoption plan specifically for them.

Because of this, birth mothers are able to find a loving and caring family for their baby. Texas Adoption Center turns an otherwise tricky situation into a beautiful experience for both the birth mother and the adoptive family.

Learn more about Texas Adoption Center »

2. SAReads

SAReads is part of Literacy San Antonio, Inc. They teach children to read by encouraging teachers to use the Science-Based Reading Instruction (SBRI). As a result of this, the performance of students with the risk of reading failure is improved. In the end, their goal is to improve the reading level for children in Texas as a whole.

Learn more about SAReads »

3. The Children’s Shelter

The Children’s Shelter is a trauma-informed, care-certified organization that provides a safe home for children. They provide holistic solutions for abused and neglected children. The services available include shelters and foster care, in addition to recovery and mental health treatment.

Learn more about The Children’s Shelter »

4. Inspire A Child USA

In some cases, the hours between 3:00 and 6:00 pm can create a vulnerable time in which children could fall prey to various negative influences. This includes anything from drug and gang involvement to possible neglect and abuse, or even child abduction.

Inspire A Child USA hosts a safe afterschool program for at-risk youth, offered to schools at no cost. Now, while parents are still working, children have a safe place to spend afterschool hours.

Learn more about Inspire a Child USA »

5. JOVEN

JOVEN promises a better future for children ages 5 to 17 years old. Their focus is on building resiliency and developing personal character. Well-structured programs to prevent and intervene with drug abusers are also available.

Learn more about JOVEN »

6. Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas

It’s hard to help a child through grief, especially if the parent is also struggling through tragedy. Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas is a nonprofit that offers grief support for these children. This is done through counseling services, supportive groups, and ongoing education.

Learn more about the Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas »

7. SA Youth

SA Youth focuses on helping children from low-income families in San Antonio. The goal is for at-risk youth to receive the support they need to complete high school and head into workforce training. This enables them to develop their character and lead a healthy lifestyle as well.

Learn more about SA Youth »

8. ChildSafe

One in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually abused before they turn 18. Because of this, Childsafe now seeks to confront this disturbing issue. They hope to do this by restoring hope, trust, and dignity for abused and neglected children through specialized services and expert care.

Learn more about ChildSafe »

9. Any Baby Can

Any Baby Can provides assistance and support to any family with an in-need child. They provide equal support to children with a chronic illness, disability, developmental delay, or health risk. With this support, children are given the resources they need to feel accepted, supported, and loved.

Learn more about Any Baby Can »

10. New Beginnings Children’s Home

Abused, neglected, or displaced children from ages 5 to 17 years old need a safe refuge. New Beginnings Children’s Home serves as this haven. The children here receive the necessary care and support to recover, grow, and prepare for family reunification.

Because of New Beginnings Children’s Home, kids can now overcome the pain of neglect through loving compassion.

Learn more about New Beginnings Children’s Home »

Best Nonprofits in San Antonio

When it comes to supporting and serving the community in San Antonio, there seems to be no shortage in the number of nonprofits scattered across the city. This is especially true with regard to the various local nonprofits that serve the city’s youth. In conclusion, from loving adoption centers to afterschool programs, San Antonio truly has some of the best.

Texas Adoption Center

For birth mothers who are expecting a child and are considering adoption, Texas Adoption Center is the perfect option. Our judgment-free Adoption Specialists are available at any time to listen to your unique story and help you find the best solution for you and your baby.

To get in touch with an Adoption Specialist, call us anytime at 512-893-7943 or send us a text at 361-461-3742.

Inspiring work is being done every single day to improve our streets and help our neighbors. If you haven’t already, take a look around. There are so many nonprofits in just Texas alone! In fact, some of the top nonprofits in Amarillo may be just around the corner from you.

Considering this, we’ve found an especially high number of nonprofits that hope to create a more beautiful world for the children of Amarillo. Today, we’re going to highlight some of these powerful causes.

From a lovely adoption center to a creative snack startup… these are the Top 10 best nonprofits in Amarillo that are making an impact. For more information on each organization, follow the links below.

1. Texas Adoption Center

Texas Adoption Center is an adoption center that serves birth mothers in any corner of Texas, including Amarillo. They offer down to earth support and care for any birth mother that walks in the door, focusing on their happiness and wellbeing. 

Known as one of the top adoption centers in Texas, they even offer financial support to mothers who are struggling to make ends meet. At Texas Adoption Center, birth mothers are encouraged to see the beauty in adoption, find a loving home for their baby, and be supported unconditionally.

Learn more about Texas Adoption Center »

2. High Plains Children’s Home

For children and adults with special needs who have been orphaned, neglected, abused, or taken advantage of, High Plains Children’s Home gives them a second chance. Here, they will be nurtured and encouraged to live with love and service to others.

Learn more about the High Plains Children’s Home »

3. Buckner Children & Family Services

Buckner’s Amarillo location offers a wide range of support to families and children in the area. They provide resources to families hoping to become foster parents, connect foster children with a loving family, and offer transitional programs for teens aging out of foster care. They even help single-parent families live in a safe environment while completing educational or vocational goals. 

Learn more about the Buckner Children & Family Services »

4. Family Support Services

Family Support Services of Amarillo agency is a unique nonprofit organization which serves almost 25,000 people annually. Their tagline “Restoring Hope. Reviving Hearts. Rebuilding Lives.” perfectly sums up the work they do every day.

They provide assistance to anyone who is struggling and in need. From counseling and Veteran support to crisis response and providing an emergency safe house, Family Support Services truly strives to help anyone.

Learn more about the Family Support Services »

5. Amarillo Children’s Home

The Amarillo Children’s home exists to give a home, security, and support to kids needing an accepting place to live. Striving for generational change through children, they opened their doors in 1924 after seeing three homeless, orphaned kids crying outside of a church. Almost a century later, it is known as one of the best nonprofits in Amarillo TX.

Learn more about the Amarillo Children’s Home »

6. CASA

CASA gives neglected children an advocate to speak up for them in court, at school, or in the community. Usually, CASA volunteers are there to tell the judge their unbiased opinion that is in the best interest of the child.  

Their overall vision is to be able to appoint a CASA volunteer to any endangered child and help find them a permanent and loving environment.

Learn more about CASA »

7. Snack Pak 4 Kids

Almost 1 in 4 kids in Texas is food insecure. Although children are able to receive breakfast and lunch at school, many go hungry over the weekend.

Because of this, Snack Pak 4 Kids is a unique food program which fights childhood hunger. Every Friday, children in need are able to take a nutritious Snack Pak home with them so that they can eat over the weekend. They can then go back to school on Monday mornings, ready to learn.

Learn more about Snack Pak 4 Kids »

8. Martha’s Home

Martha’s Home provides a hand up rather than a handout and helps women and children rebuild their lives. They provide safety and security to homeless single-parent families by providing a temporary home, education, and job opportunities.

Learn more about Martha’s Home »

9. Storybridge

2 out of 3 low-income households do not have a single children’s book in their home. For these children, not having access to books makes it increasingly difficult to be successful in school.

Storybridge aims to give at-risk youth books to call their own. They believe that through books, children can learn to tackle their hardships and work towards a happier life.

Learn more about Storybridge »

10. High Plains Food Bank Kids Café

This is a new type of program which offers daily meals for any at-risk child. They prepare and distribute nutritious and healthy food to all children for free in an attempt to combat childhood hunger in Amarillo.

Learn more about High Plains Food Bank Kids Café »

Best Nonprofits in Amarillo TX

When it comes to showing love and support to local children and families, Amarillo seems to have it all. Whether you are looking to donate to a nonprofit organization, volunteer your time, or even receive assistance, there are more than enough nonprofits to choose from.

With that being said, if you are a mother experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, keep Texas Adoption Center in mind. We’re a non-judgmental and empathetic group of women who would love to help you take control over your decisions. We will help you to understand your unique situation and be an advocate for any choice you decide to make.

Call us at 512-893-7943 or send us a text at 361-461-3742. We’re happy to take your call anytime.