Supporting Women Beyond a Pregnancy Decision: Importance of Care During an Unexpected Pregnancy

It can be easy in the pro-life world to focus a lot of time and energy on a woman’s decision regarding her pregnancy. Many on the pro-choice side believe that pro-life supporters only care about a woman “keeping the baby.” However, caring for both a woman and child after choosing life, is of utmost importance. This is something we value at Caring Network.

Caring Network is a non-profit pro-life organization that operates 8 pregnancy centers in Illinois. Our goal is to not only equip women to choose life, but to help set them and their children up for success. By providing free early pregnancy services, confidential support, community resources, and ongoing follow-up, we are here each step of the way. To learn more about our organization and how you can support our work, click here.

Obstacles That Women May Face in an Unplanned Pregnancy

Before diving into the importance of care, it’s important to look at the reasons why a woman may consider abortion in the first place. In a study of women surveyed regarding their motivation for seeking an abortion, there were a few common themes that stood out.

Finances

Around 40% of the women who participated in the study cited financial concerns as a top reason. This is true for the women we serve at Caring Network as well. Many women say that they can’t see a way to afford to have a child (or have another one). They may have housing or career instability. They may be in school. They may have other children to care for. Regardless of the particulars, financial concerns are top of mind.

Timing

“It’s just not the right time.” This is a common phrase we hear from women facing an unplanned pregnancy. 36% of the women in the study said timing was a major contributing factor in their decision. Maybe they want a child in the future, but not right now. They may be in a life transition or perhaps grieving the loss of a relationship. The time is not “right” to move forward with parenting.

Partner Issues

A third of the participants in the study cited a partner-related issue as the reason why they sought an abortion. Maybe their relationship is unstable. Some may desire to be married before having children. Or perhaps their partner is not supportive of continuing the pregnancy – or even pressured them towards abortion.

As you can see, there are many complex factors that go into an abortion decision. That’s why it’s even more important to help eliminate some of these obstacles – both in the decision-making process and for the future.

Providing Care and Supporting Women Beyond a Pregnancy Decision

Here are a few ways to provide support and care past the initial decision-making process, empowering women to be successful moms.

Consultations & Education During a Pregnancy Decision

At Caring Network, we recognize the importance of providing education about all pregnancy options – equipping women to make an informed decision and removing some of the barriers that keep them from choosing life. During our consultations, we also hear about external factors influencing their decision, like the ones listed above. So, even while they are in the midst of their decision, we can provide community resources and referrals that both help their current circumstances, and help them envision a better future.

Practical Help and Community Services

After the initial consultation, we continue to follow-up. Sometimes needs arise at a later date and their unsure of what to do. Caring Network is there to walk alongside them. Although we’re focused on the initial steps of an unplanned pregnancy, we recognize many community agencies specialize in providing ongoing care. We bridge the gap between the client and those agencies, helping her get set up for long-term support and care. We can help her get set up for insurance and get connected to prenatal care. Also, we partner with several local “baby banks” that provide baby items to help ease some of the initial burden after the baby is born.

Caring Network recognizes the importance of not only the initial “decision for life,” but also the overall well-being of a mother and her child. We come alongside them not only in the initial stages, but for as long as they would like. Through providing free services and compassionate support, we equip women to choose life – and to be impacted both for here and eternity. Would you like to be a part of our vital work? Find out more today!