In some cases, marriage can be a healthy and positive option in the midst of an unplanned pregnancy. However, you should never feel like you have to marry a person just because they are the father/mother of your child. If you are in an unhealthy relationship, you have the right to be free from that relationship whether you are pregnant/share children with a person or not. If you are in an abusive situation, please know that there is help, and that you don’t need to be in that relationship for another moment. We are here to support you and get you the resources you need no matter what your circumstances.

If you are in a healthy relationship that you want to commit to for a lifetime, getting married has many benefits. On average, married people live longer, have more wealth, and have more and better sex than their unmarried counterparts. At Daybreak we can offer counseling for both you and the baby’s father to help you figure out the best option for your relationship.

Single parenting is never easy, but with the right support and resources, you can be a healthy, independent, and successful single parent to your child(ren). Our peer counselors are ready to assist you in discovering the support services that exist in your area. We exist to support you throughout your pregnancy and beyond!

Here are some questions to consider about single parenting:

If I can't afford to live on my own, where can I live with my baby?

We can help you explore your housing options before you deliver. Most single parents need to work. Consider your childcare options in each situation:

-Living with a friend or relative
-Living with your parents or the birthfather's parents
-Finding an apartment in public, subsidized housing
-Living in a maternity home during your pregnancy

Can anyone help me with baby items, maternity clothes, etc.?

Yes! We can provide free maternity clothes right away, and if you participate in our parenting classes/videos, relationship classes, and/or Bible studies, you can earn “Baby Bucks” to spend on baby clothing, equipment, furniture, diapers, and much more. After your baby’s birth, we can provide free formula on an as-needed basis.

How do I get support from the father?

The father's legal responsibilities include providing financial support for your child. Most states have a child support enforcement agency that will withhold money from his paycheck if he is unwilling to pay. If the father is unable to provide child support, you need to plan how you will care for your baby without him. A birthfather's support record may influence court decisions about custody and visitation rights. You and the father should also discuss your individual rights and responsibilities. A child's needs are best met when the mother and father work together.

Can I still choose adoption later if parenting doesn't work out?

If single parenting becomes an impossible option for you for any reason at all, making an adoption plan is still an option; it’s never too late to make sure your child grows up in a safe, loving home. It takes courage to realize that by yourself you cannot provide all that your child needs, and help and support is always available to you. To learn more about the possibilities of adoption, visit Bethany Christian Services.

I'm not sure I will be a good parent. Can I let you in on a little secret? No one is sure that they will be a good parent! Bringing a new life into the world can be an overwhelming thought at any age and in any circumstance! Our center offers parenting classes, resources, and caring peer counselors that will help you and answers all of your questions about parenting your child. We are here to help you and want you to become the best parent you can be.

*All information in this section courtesy of www.bethany.org

Adoption may be an option that you are seriously considering. Or you may just be wondering what adoption is like. Or, you may feel that you could never choose adoption. Whatever your thoughts, it is always good to have information about all of your choices before you make a final decision.

Adoption might be a good choice for you and your baby, especially if you don't feel ready to be a parent yet. When you consider making an adoption plan for your child, that doesn't mean you don't love your baby. It also doesn't mean that you are taking the easy way out. What it does mean is that you are thinking about how to best meet needs: yours and your baby's, today and well into the future. Adoption today may not be what you think. Openness has changed adoption. While it's true that with adoption, your parental rights and responsibilities are given to another set of parents, that doesn't end your ability to have a relationship with your child. Open adoption involves an ongoing, dynamic relationship between you, the adoptive parents, and your child.

There is no easy solution to an unplanned pregnancy. Each choice is hard and has its own difficulties. You can empower yourself by getting as much information as you can get about your options. To keep learning more about adoption, check out this page from Bethany.org

If you are considering an abortion, we want to make sure you have carefully thought this decision through and weighed all of the pros and cons. You have options, and abortion is not the only one.

You don't need to make this decision right away. Slow down and allow yourself time to think. Don't let anyone tell you that you have to have an abortion. We exist to help you explore your options.

Here are some things to consider before you make this decision:

Know the possible risks in an abortion

Abortion has physical, emotional, spiritual and psychological risks. Read up on these risks and understand them before making a final decision.

Get a urine pregnancy test to confirm your pregnancy

We provide free, laboratory-quality urine tests Monday-Friday from 10am-5pm, and until 7pm on Tuesdays. A Trained peer counselor will provide you with additional information and resources relevant to your situation. All of our services are free and confidential.

Get a free ultrasound

Daybreak offers free, non-diagnostic ultrasounds to our clients to help determine exactly how far along you are in your pregnancy. Knowing how far along you are is critical information when making a decision regarding your pregnancy.

Understand that you have rights regarding abortion

It is against the law for anyone to force you to have an abortion. Not even a husband or parent can require you to undergo an abortion against your will, even if you are a minor (under 18 years old). Our center exists to help you in any circumstance. We can help you discuss this choice with those closest to you who are influencing your decision.

If you do decide to undergo an abortion procedure, understand that you have the right to change your mind - even at the last minute

Some women who have experienced an abortion relate that they felt like they had to go through with the procedure once they had entered the facility. As with any elective medical procedure, If you're not sure, you can change your mind. Know your rights, and don't let yourself be pressured or intimidated by anyone. If the procedure is not performed, demand your money back.

Understand that your baby is not a "blob of tissue"

Ultrasound photos show that at early stages of pregnancy the humanness of the embryo is clearly evident. Check out this fetal development page and prepare to be amazed at all that’s happening with the growth of your baby!

Know you are not alone

Abortion is not your only option, and we exist to help support you during your pregnancy and beyond. There is no obstacle big enough that can't be overcome by friendship, love, and support.