If you are experiencing an unexpected pregnancy, your first thought might be “I can’t afford a child.”  

The reality is finances play a large role in the decision of a woman’s pregnancy. Almost half of all women don’t feel ready to take on the financial weight of providing for a child. If you are feeling this way, just know you’re not alone. Many women have walked through similar situations and fears as you.  

You have some big decisions ahead of you. Thankfully, you have options. You have time. And you don’t have to face this alone. 

What should I do when I’m pregnant and can’t afford it? 

STEP 1: It’s okay to feel overwhelmed 

Let’s be honest, this probably wasn’t your plan. 

You may have had a picture of what you thought your family would look like. And maybe you imagined yourself to be in a more financially secure place before having children.  

When your plans change from what you expect, there is a grieving process that occurs. Any time your dreams or plans change unexpectedly, it’s okay to grieve what you thought your life would look like. When you recognize your grief, it helps you understand how to better approach your next steps. 

Let yourself react first. Then remember, it’s okay to take time to process what you’re feeling. 

STEP 2: Remind yourself you are not stuck 

STEP 3: Talk to people you trust 

With any big decision you’re making in life, they shouldn’t be made alone. Surround yourself with people who care about you, like friends, family, mentors, or others who’ve faced similar situations. 

Think of the people in your life who are your biggest supporters. Who is a good listener? Who do you go to for advice? You might even consider talking to women you know who’ve gone through a similar situation and learn how she navigated it.  

If you don’t have someone you feel comfortable talking to, that’s okay. We’re here to listen. Our experienced counselors at Marisol Health can walk with you through your concerns and help you explore every option, confidentially and without judgment. 

You deserve a comfortable and confidential place to process your worries and explore all pregnancy and financial options without judgment. You can schedule a confidential appointment today. 

STEP 4: Evaluate all your options 

Once you’ve validated your emotions, examined what’s possible, and talked to people you trust, it’s time to explore all of your pregnancy options. 

1. Parenting with financial assistance 

Parenting can feel daunting if you’re worried about money, but help is available. Many organizations provide financial assistance for pregnant women including help with: 

• Medical bills and healthcare 
• Food, housing, and clothing 
• Education and job support 
• Affordable, psychological counseling for you and your family 
• Mentorship, money management, and parenting resources 
• Support groups 

There are numerous programs that exist to help you in your unique circumstances. Never feel ashamed to ask for help. With help, you can still accomplish your goals and dreams while raising a child. 

To talk through financial assistance options, make an appointment with our staff today. 

2. Adoption

Adoption puts you in the driver’s seat to determine what you want to happen after your child is born. It gives you a bit of control when you feel out of control.  

It also gives you the time to figure out what you want to do. You get to choose the family you want to parent your child based on what you want for them. You also get to choose the type of relationship you want with your child and the family.  

There are three types of adoption agreements you can choose from.   

Open Adoption leaves the door open to build an ongoing relationship with your child after adoption. You and the adoptive family agree on your interaction. It might look like exchanging letters or regular in-person visits. 

Closed Adoption means there is no contact between you, your child, and the adoptive family after the adoption. This closes the door to the child’s involvement in your life after pregnancy. 

Semi-Open Adoption is a combination of open and closed adoption. It allows you to communicate with the adoptive parents to check in on your child’s life throughout the years while still living an independent life. 

Adoption in the state of Colorado offers financial assistance to cover medical expenses, court costs, and more. If you think adoption might be the best option for you, we encourage you to talk with our staff who can walk you through options.

3. Abortion

If you don’t want to carry out your pregnancy, abortion can terminate your pregnancy. This is done through a medical abortion, often known as the abortion pill, or a surgical abortion.  

Most women seeking an abortion report not being able to afford a child or feeling as if the child would interfere with work, school, or life goals.  

While abortion may be marketed as one of the most financially beneficial options for your pregnancy, it is still a large out-of-pocket expense.  

It’s important to weigh the emotional cost in this decision too. What are you more likely to look back on and wish you would have done differently? Even if it’s the easier thing to do right now, what will I feel most at peace with in the long run? 

It’s important to discuss your options, health, and financial situation with a trusted person before deciding what to do about your pregnancy. 

Marisol Health provides abortion information but does not perform or refer for abortions.