I’m Pregnant and Addicted. Can I Choose Adoption?
The challenges birth mothers face are immense and can be overwhelming at times, sometimes to the point of where it can take a serious toll on your mental and physical health. Addiction and pregnancy are two of the hardest things to handle, no matter how much strength or resilience any expectant mother may believe she has. Combining the two — struggling with an addiction while experiencing an unplanned pregnancy — is something different entirely.
But don’t worry. Adoption Choices of Missouri is here to help you. If you are a pregnant woman who is fighting an addiction, you are not alone. Adoption is an available option to you, and we have resources and services that can help ease your anxiety and stress levels. You will be treated no differently than any other expectant mother who walks through our doors, as each and every woman we assist is valued and important to us.
Addiction Does Not Make You Weak
First, let’s give a reminder to you: your addiction does not make you weak. You are still wonderfully made and a strong woman who wants the best for herself and her baby. Being pregnant and addicted, whether it be drugs or alcohol, does not cancel out the love you have for your child. You want him or her to have a better life and better chance at happiness, because you know you yourself cannot provide that.
There is absolutely no shame in seeking help. Parenthood is not for everyone. Showing the initiative in wanting to place your baby for adoption is a surefire sign that you care for your child and want the best for them. You and your child both deserve the chance at a bright future, and adoption can give you that.
Adoption is an Option
To adapt the words from an old adage, the first step to recovery and healing is admitting that you’re not in a place where you can provide the life your child deserves. This is not something that is easy to admit either. It takes a lot of strength and courage. So, we want to acknowledge that upfront. By looking at adoption as an option, you are showing that you want what’s best for your baby.
Placing your baby for adoption is absolutely something you can consider if you find yourself unexpectedly pregnant and struggling with an addiction. We work with expectant mothers from all backgrounds and will never turn you away. The moment you agree to work with our adoption agency, you will get full access to our free counseling, legal and adoption services, along with financial assistance if you are found eligible.
Finding an Adoptive Family when Pregnant and Addicted
Being pregnant and addicted does not void your chances of giving your baby to an adoptive family. In fact, it is one of the strongest and most selfless things you can do, as you know in your heart you are doing the right thing for your child. Additionally, all of our prospective adoptive families have been made aware that the baby may struggle with addiction early in life.
Be sure to consult with your doctor and healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about this. If your baby is in need of any medical help after birth, your medical team will be the best resource for that.
Addiction Recovery Services are Available to You
If you are interested in recovery or becoming clean from your addiction, be sure to discuss this with your adoption caseworker. They will be able to provide you with the resources you need to find local recovery centers and programs in the area. Know that there is no pressure either way. The decision is completely up to you.
We’ve helped many birth mothers who have taken advantage of these services, and were able to heal and establish a healthy relationship with their birth child after the adoption was finalized through open or semi-open adoption. Just as many decided that they weren’t ready to commit to that and wanted to continue with their addiction after giving birth. So, it’s best to ask yourself if you honestly feel ready for the huge undertaking and the devotion needed to taking care of yourself and have the chance at a better future.
Can I Choose Adoption if I’m Pregnant and Addicted?
Absolutely! Adoption is always an option for you, no matter what your circumstances are. Our adoption center in Missouri works with pregnant women and soon-to-be birth mothers from all walks of life. You will never be treated with anything but respect, support and compassion when you choose to place your baby for adoption with us. Both you and your baby are important to us, and we will do our best to meet your needs and ensure that you have a positive and empowering adoption journey.
In the end, you and your baby will both be prosperous and healthy. Choosing adoption when you’re facing an unwanted pregnancy and struggling with an addiction is not the end of you. Rather, it can be the beginning of a beautiful adventure. Reach out to us at Adoption Choices of Missouri to learn more. Let’s get started together.
Adoption Choices of Missouri serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more! Call us toll free at 877-903-4488 or, in Missouri call or text us at 1-816-527-9800
Meet the Author: My name is Alexander Charles Cooper, I come from a family of four that originates from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I, along with my younger brother Greyson were born in North Carolina, three years after my parents had wed and moved to the state. Alexander shares his birthday with Maya Angelou, which he takes great pride in.
Growing up, Alexander had the privilege of having both parents in his life and a stable upbringing in which he was surrounded by family and friends. He believes that much of his family foundation is built on faith which has given him a discipline and practice that has allowed him to discover and build his spiritual self. He is also interested in politics and worldly news that allows him to excel in American literature, philosophy/ethics, and higher learning.
From that, his passion in writing bloomed and he found his true calling: “I wished to create and write for a living and know it will be what makes me happiest. My only wish is for me to bring about positive change for others both near and far and leave a lasting legacy that contributes to the overall wellbeing and joy of others.”