Considering Adoption as Pregnant Woman in the Military
Expecting a baby while in the military can be a source of great stress and uncertainty, depending on your situation. The responsibility that comes with raising a child can cut into the responsibility that comes with serving your country. For many, being in the armed forces is a meaningful calling to be taken very seriously. One’s dedication to this form of service might not be conducive to raising children under some circumstances, and so it’s understandable for a pregnant service woman to opt out of parenthood. Maybe you are simply a pregnant woman not ready to be a parent, and you just happen to be in the military.
In any case, if you are considering adoption as a pregnant woman in the military, and you are concerned that serving your country will complicate the adoption process, don’t worry. Actively serving does not change any of the steps you need to take when placing a child for adoption.
Adoption Choices of Kansas can provide you with the guidance and support you need every step of the way. To help get you started on your adoption journey, we have provided you with this brief overview of what to expect throughout the adoption process.
Reach Out to Explore Your Adoption Options
When you contact Adoption Choices of Kansas for your initial inquiry, we can help you make an informed decision when choosing the path that’s right for you. We will provide you with all the information you need to begin the adoption process, as well as answer any questions you have. Don’t feel like you need to hold back on anything when you reach out to us. We have helped hundreds of women coming from various backgrounds with unique situations, and we are prepared to get you through this adoption successfully.
Prioritize Your Health Throughout Your Adoption Journey
Early in your pregnancy, it’s crucial that you get the healthcare you need to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy. If your current occupation in the military is dangerous, or entails exposure to hazardous substances, be sure to notify the necessary points of contact in your branch as soon as you can. That way, arrangements can be made to maximize the safety of your working environment.
Also, remember to not neglect your emotional and mental health. Serving in the armed forces and unwanted pregnancies are stressful in their own rights, but combining them together can create an overwhelming situation. You don’t have to let your anxiety, grief, or other negative emotions take control over you. Rather, you can take control over how to manage these feelings. No matter where you are located, you can reach out to the adoption counselors at Adoption Choices of Kansas if you need to talk through any hardships you face, so you don’t feel isolated during your adoption journey.
Put Together an Adoption Plan
From choosing the adoptive family to the amount of contact you have with your child after placement, you are in complete control of the adoption process from the beginning. Carefully think about what characteristics you want to see in the adoptive family such as certain values, parenting styles, financial stability, and so on. Perhaps you might consider another military family that understands the immense responsibilities that come with serving, thus promoting a unique mutual bond and respect for each other. Remember that you can change any aspect about your adoption plan at any time, including whether you want to follow through with the adoption until you relinquish your parental rights.
Prepare for the Delivery of Your Baby
If you are currently serving outside of the United States, it is critical that you are able to return to the United States in time for the delivery. Make sure you make the necessary arrangements with your supervisors to ensure a safe and timely return home. You will also want to consider which hospital you want to deliver your baby at, as well as the medical team who will help you during your delivery. Additionally, just as you have control over the terms of the adoption, you also have control over your hospital stay. You get to decide on who is present in the delivery room, whether pictures are taken, who gets to cut the umbilical cord, whether you want alone time with your baby, and so on.
Take Pride in Your Adoption as a Service Woman
When you are considering adoption as a pregnant woman in the military, know that you will not be “giving up” on your responsibility to the child you carry to fulfill your duty to your country if you choose adoption. You are giving your child the best shot at life you can give him or her, while still pursuing your dream of serving your country. At Adoption Choices of Kansas, we will serve you with the same dedication and pride that you demonstrate through your service to our country.
Adoption Choices of Kansas serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more!
Call Us 877-903-4488 or Text Us 316-209-2071
Meet the Author: Mary DeStefano is an Ohio native currently living in northern Virginia and works in the litigation consulting industry where she has experience in antitrust, product liability, and mass torts matters. She holds a B.A. in Economics (‘15) and an M.A. in Applied Economics (‘16) from the University of Cincinnati.
Mary finds great meaning in wielding the written word to develop impactful narratives and to help people stay informed. In her spare time, Mary can be found beachcombing and going on other adventures with her dog along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay. She also has an affinity for antiquing and loves a good 80’s movie marathon.
