Perhaps the most obvious — and most daunting — of the alternatives to abortion is to keep the unborn child and raise him or her, either as a single parent or alongside the other parent. Some people decide to get married, but this is not always necessary or in the best interest of the parents or the child. Sometimes becoming a single parent is the best choice for all involved, but if becoming a parent is not an option, adoption as one of the alternatives to abortion may benefit both the child and the parents. One should consider all options available before deciding what to do as an alternative to abortion.
Choosing adoption as one of the alternatives to abortion may be in the best interest of the child and the parents. If the parents do not believe they can safely and responsibly raise a child, it may be best to let the child be with foster parents who can take care of him or her. When a parent gives a child up for adoption, many times the parent will relinquish any right to know where the child ends up. This is done to prevent awkward, painful, or even dangerous situations later in the child's life, and to cut emotional ties with the child so both the parents and child can move on.
Sometimes other family members are willing to adopt the child or at least maintain custody until the parents are prepared to take care of him or her. While this is certainly one of the more family-oriented alternatives to abortion, it can be very stressful for both the parents and the custodians. This type of situation is common when the parents are teens who are still in school or too young to responsibly raise the child. It keeps the child in the family, but it places a burden on other family members that may or may not be welcome. It is important to discuss this option with family members thoroughly before committing to it.
Raising the child either as a set of parents or as a single parent is an alternative to abortion that may or may not be in the best interest of the child and parents. If the parents are financially stable and willing and able to care for the unexpected child, keeping the child can be a rewarding — if not challenging — experience for all parties involved. One should keep in mind, however, that this alternative comes with a significant amount of responsibility, patience, understanding, and need to love and care for the child.
