Life is pretty different than it was 18 weeks ago. That baby bump is really starting to show, and you’ve run the gamut on pregnancy side effects, from nausea to headaches to strange food cravings. These past five months have been difficult, and you’ve been grappling with a difficult question: I’m five months pregnant and don’t want the baby, so what do I do?

Every year, millions of women in America experience an unplanned pregnancy. Thousands of them ask the same questions you are asking now. What are the unplanned pregnancy options when I am 18, 19 or 20 weeks pregnant and don’t want the baby? Can I give my baby up for adoption at five months pregnant? What would the adoption process be like? Are there other choices I could make?

It’s a good thing that you are asking these hard questions, and we are here to help you find some answers. Your situation may seem impossibly difficult. But with the right help, you can make the best of it.

Things to Look for When You Are Five Months Pregnant

You’re in the middle of your second trimester at this point in your pregnancy, and the first thing to take care of is your own health. Sometimes, an expectant mother can be so wrapped up in figuring out what to do about the unplanned pregnancy that she forgets to keep up with all the necessary medical work for a pregnancy. Your wellbeing is the first and foremost concern at this point, and there are different things you should know during these weeks of pregnancy.

• 18 Weeks Pregnant: Your baby is getting pretty big by 18 weeks. Now is a good time to start sleeping on your side instead of your back, which creates better blood circulation. Take plenty of time to rest and refuel at this point in pregnancy.

• 19 Weeks Pregnant: Feeling hungry all the time? That’s because the baby needs more food than he or she used to. It’s okay to eat more — your body needs more nutrients right now. Also, you’re almost ready to find out if the baby is a boy or girl!

• 20 Weeks Pregnant: This is typically when you find out your baby’s gender. If you want to know the gender and haven’t scheduled an appointment for this yet, now is a good time. You’re likely feeling some negative side effects like shortness of breath and swelling, but you may also be feeling a burst of extra energy.

• 21 Weeks Pregnant: You’re over halfway through the pregnancy, and the third trimester is fast approaching. The baby’s movements will be much more noticeable now, and his or her development is really amazing to see. Now may also be a good time to schedule your glucose challenge test.

• 22 Weeks Pregnant: The baby is around the size of a coconut, and growing fast. At this point, you’ll start to notice some real changes to your body, like potential stretch marks. Make sure to check in with your doctor about healthy weight gain as your body adapts.

What if I’m Five Months Pregnant and Don’t Want the Baby?

After you’ve taken care of your own needs, you can consider what to do if you’re 18, 19 or 20 weeks pregnant and don’t want the baby. At the halfway point in your pregnancy, you still have some time to make a decision, although that window of opportunity is closing on one of your options in particular.

• Parenting: Is it possible for you to raise a child? Parenthood can be a challenge, but it can also be a joy. If you want to raise your baby, but you don’t know how that will practically be possible, there are resources to help.

• Abortion: Depending on where you live, you may be past the stage of pregnancy where you can receive an abortion, or you are almost there. Most states only allow abortions up to 20–24 weeks. If this is what you would like to do, find out your state’s laws. You may need to act quickly.

• Adoption: When you know you can’t parent, but you still want to provide the baby with a chance at a wonderful life, adoption can be the best choice for you. There are many benefits to adoption and many resources that will be made available to you as an expecting mother in the adoption process. 

Can I Give My Baby Up for Adoption at Five Months Pregnant?

Yes, you can. You’re not too far along in the pregnancy to choose adoption. In fact, there is still plenty of time for you to work with an adoption specialist at American Adoptions to create a plan that works best for you. When you create an adoption plan, you’re in charge of the decision. The adoption process for you will include things like:

• Deciding on a level of openness in your adoption

• Picking an adoptive family that is best for your baby

• Creating a hospital plan for birth

• Potentially receiving adoption financial assistance

• And more

If you are 18–22 weeks pregnant and don’t want the baby, you can choose adoption today. You should never rush into a decision this important, and you do still have time. That being said, the sooner you begin your adoption, the more relaxed that pace of the process will be.

How Do I Start My Adoption Process?

If you are five months pregnant and don’t want the baby, or know you’re not currently ready to raise the baby, you can start you adoption process today by calling 1-800-ADOPTION and speaking with an adoption specialist. Even if you are unsure of which option will be the best choice for you, you can call and learn more information that will help you make a good decision. 

Disclaimer
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