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Abortion, Adoption, Parenting

When facing an unplanned pregnancy, individuals have several options to consider and it is important to understand the implications of each.  It is also important for you to know that you are not alone. The support of our Birthright volunteers can help take the panic out of your decision. You don’t need to make a decision today. Birthright was established to help women experiencing an unplanned or crisis pregnancy, to sort through your thoughts, navigate your path, and support you throughout this process, no matter what path you choose.

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Each pregnancy option carries responsibility. Talking with someone about your unique situation can help answer questions you may have about each of your options and understand the resources available to you.

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Abortion

With the Supreme Court’s ruling to overturn Roe v. Wade in 2022, the authority to determine how to address abortion rights has moved to each state.  In general, abortions in Idaho are currently no longer accessible except in those cases of physical abuse, medical emergencies, which would be to save the life of the pregnant woman.

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Here at Birthright, we are aware that this decision may bring confusion, heightened emotions and more questions or concerns. We want to be clear that although the laws have changed, our commitment to serving women facing an unplanned or crisis pregnancy has not changed.  As before, we are committed to serving, supporting and empowering women in pregnancy.  We understand the continued need for information so women can make an informed decision and receive the support and services they need.  Our services remain confidential, compassionate and professional, meeting the unique needs and circumstances of each woman we get to meet.

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You have many choices when it comes to your body. You may feel that an abortion will prevent your life from changing, but that is seldom true. It has already changed: you are pregnant. Before you schedule an appointment for an abortion, come in and talk to us. Birthright does not financially benefit from your visit. We are only here to listen to you, to answer your questions, and provide a safe place for you to consider all your options. We are not a medical facility and do not perform or refer for abortions. However, we can discuss and help you process the factors in your life that may cause you to believe that abortion is your only option. Our volunteers will provide you with accurate information. They will be sympathetic to the circumstances that are moving you to consider an abortion. Ultimately it is your decision – we are not here to tell you what you should or shouldn’t do. After all it is your life, your plan.

Adoption

Adoption is another option to consider. The more you know about adoption, the more you will learn whether it’s the right choice for you.  It may empower you to know that you have the choice to create an adoption plan that allows varying levels of contact between you, the birth parent, and the adopted child.   There are three adoption options to consider as you decide if adoption is a fit for you.

  1. Open Adoption – This is the most common type of adoption chosen today and the most flexible.  What an open adoption looks like can vary widely in the types and amount of contact shared.  It depends on what the birth parents have requested and the adoptive family has agreed to. Identifying information is exchanged between birth parents and adoptive parents including full names, addresses and phone numbers, etc.

  2. Semi-open Adoption – A semi open adoption is a mix between closed and open.  In a semi-open adoption, no identifying information is exchanged. All contact is coordinated by a third-party mediator such as an adoption agency or attorney.  This contact includes letters and pictures and any visit requests.

  3. Closed Adoption – Closed adoptions allow for the most privacy and no identifying information is exchanged.   Only the birth mother knows what’s best for her and her child and in some situations, she may choose to have no contact

Adoption takes courage and is a loving choice.  Our Birthright volunteers are here to help discuss this option and if you are interested in learning more, we can assist in finding the best adoption agency for you.

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Parenting

Parenting is both rewarding and challenging. When considering the option of parenting, many women look at their life as it is now and question how a baby would fit in. Birthright offers a great starting point to help you understand what resources are available to you. Our volunteers can help you understand what you might face as a parent, we can answer your questions and provide you with resources on parenting skills. Our support is on-going.

 

Our Parenting Services - All of our services are free and confidential.

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  • Maternity items

  • Medical referrals

  • Housing referrals

  • Educational assistance and referrals

  • Medicaid proof-of-pregnancy form

  • Referrals to social agencies

  • Baby care items such as diapers, baby clothes (0-24 months) and blankets are available monthly

  • Confidential help, friendship, and emotional support

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