If you’re pregnant, or think you’re pregnant, it’s natural to think about parenting as an option. Something you might not have considered yet is that there are several different kinds of parenting options available.
One kind of parenting is parenting with a spouse. If you’re pregnant and already married, or pregnant and in a serious, loving relationship, this may be the right option for you.
Another option would be joint-parenting, or joint-custody. This is when you and your baby’s father don’t live together, but both raise your child. Sometimes this can work well when you and your baby’s father are both committed to being in your child’s life, but marriage just isn’t right for you.
Single parenting is a common option, and one many pregnant women consider. Even single parenting isn’t done one certain way, though. Some women live with their parents or a sibling or friend so they have help and support with their baby. Some women live independently and parent on their own.
The important thing to remember is, parenting can look very different for each family, and that’s a good thing! It gives you more options, and it can help you create a plan for your future that fits in both a child and other important goals you may want to pursue.
So why choose to parent? It can be a challenge, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. Your child, no matter what stage of pregnancy development, is already half made up of you. Parenting allows you to watch as your child grows, takes her first steps, laughs, and develops interests all his own.
If you think parenting might be an option for you, but you have concerns about money, baby supplies, insurance or your parenting skills, there may be local help available. Call us at 1-800-712-4357 or chat or send us a message, and we’ll connect you with help in your area!