Right now, you might be looking at your bank account and feeling overwhelmed. The reality of bringing a baby into the world when finances are tight can feel impossible.

You're not alone in feeling this way. Whether you're worried about upcoming medical costs, struggling to pay rent or stressing about missing work, these concerns are completely valid.

This guide walks through practical options available to you in Louisiana if you’re pregnant and can’t afford the baby, including state assistance programs and adoption financial assistance. If you'd like to learn more about your options right now, fill out our form for free information.

What Can I Do If I'm Pregnant and Can't Afford a Baby?

Knowing your options can bring some relief. Some expectant mothers find support through state programs, others lean on family and community resource and a few choose adoption.

Adoption is a thoughtful choice that comes with real support. When you work with a licensed agency like American Adoptions, you can get adoption financial assistance to cover your pregnancy-related expenses. This includes medical bills, housing costs, utilities, food and other necessities during your pregnancy and for up to 45 days after birth.

It's important to understand that while financial assistance for adoption can provide real relief during a difficult time, you shouldn't choose adoption because of money problems alone. Adoption is a permanent decision that will impact your life forever. Financial support can be part of the picture, but it shouldn’t be the only reason you consider adoption. Take time to think about what feels right for you and your baby.

Louisiana Programs That Help Pregnant Women With No Money

Before making any big decisions, it's worth seeing what help is available in Louisiana. The state does help pregnant women with no money through the following programs:

• Louisiana Medicaid for Pregnant Women (LaMOMS) is Louisiana's full-coverage Medicaid program specifically for pregnant women. LaMOMS covers pregnancy-related medical care, including prenatal visits, hospital delivery, lab work, prescriptions and postpartum care for up to 12 months after your pregnancy ends. You can apply online or at a local center.

• The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) provides nutritious food, nutrition education, breastfeeding support and health referrals for pregnant women and new mothers. Louisiana WIC serves families who meet income guidelines. Start your application online to see if you qualify.

• Family Independence Temporary Assistance Program (FITAP) offers cash assistance to families with children who meet income requirements. While this program has work requirements and time limits, it can provide temporary financial relief. You can apply online through the Louisiana CAFÉ portal.

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps with food costs through an electronic card that works like a debit card at grocery stores. Pregnant women may qualify even if their income would normally be too high. Apply online through Louisiana CAFÉ.

• Housing support through federal and local programs can help with rent, security deposits or finding affordable housing. Contact Louisiana Housing Corporation or local community organizations for information about what's available in your area.

If you're already thinking about adoption, the financial support available through that process can work alongside these programs to provide more complete coverage of your expenses.

Understanding How Adoption Financial Assistance Works

Adoption financial assistance works differently than most state programs. When you work with American Adoptions, the adoptive family you choose provides financial support through our agency. This means you can get help with medical bills when pregnant, along with other essential costs.

Here's what typically gets covered:

• Medical expenses including prenatal care, hospital delivery, testing and medications

• Living expenses such as rent, groceries and utilities

• Legal fees related to the adoption process

The adoptive family covers these expenses because they want to support you during this time and ensure you have what you need to stay healthy throughout your pregnancy. We handle all the financial arrangements, making sure you get what you need while following Louisiana law.

Do I Get Paid if I Place My Baby for Adoption in Louisiana?

No, you don't get paid for placing your baby for adoption. Louisiana law prohibits payment for adoption to protect everyone involved and ensure that adoption decisions come from the heart, not from financial pressure. However, you can get support to remove financial stress during an already challenging time.

Is There a Cost for Expectant Mothers Who Choose Adoption in Louisiana?

No. Working with American Adoptions is completely free for expectant parents. This means you can access professional support, counseling and assistance throughout the process without worrying about how to afford it.

What Birth Mother Living Expenses Are Covered in Louisiana?

Under Louisiana law, adoption living expenses can be paid "for a reasonable time before the birth of the child and for no more than 45 days after the birth." The law allows coverage for:

• Temporary housing expenses like rent or mortgage payments

• Utilities including electricity, gas, water and telephone service

• Food for you and any minor children in your home

• Transportation costs related to your pregnancy or the adoption process

• Maternity clothing

• Personal hygiene products, cleaning supplies and laundry services

Louisiana law sets a cumulative limit of $7,500 for living expenses paid during your pregnancy, unless a court specifically approves a higher amount. American Adoptions works within these legal boundaries to provide you with maximum support while following Louisiana law.

The Support American Adoptions Provides to Birth Mothers in Louisiana

What support does adoption agencies give expectant mothers? When you work with American Adoptions, financial assistance is just one part of the support you receive. Here's what else we offer:

Taking the First Steps Toward Adoption in Louisiana

If you're considering adoption, here's what the first steps look like:

Throughout this process, you'll continue getting counseling support and guidance. You're never alone in making this decision or figuring out the practical details.

Connect With an Adoption Specialist Anytime

If you’re pregnant and can't afford the baby, you might be considering adoption. Whatever you decide, you deserve support and honest information.

Our specialists are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to answer your questions, talk through your concerns or just listen. You can fill out our online form or call 1-800-ADOPTION to get in touch.

You don't have to figure this out alone. Whether you choose adoption or another path forward, connecting with an adoption specialist can help you make a decision you feel confident about.

Disclaimer
Information available through these links is the sole property of the companies and organizations listed therein. American Adoptions provides this information as a courtesy and is in no way responsible for its content or accuracy.