Unplanned Pregnancy in Florida: What to Do
You have three legal paths available to you in Florida: parenting, abortion, or adoption. By understanding the specific requirements and support available for each choice, you can move forward with the peace of mind that comes from making an empowered decision for your future.
What if the most meaningful thing you ever did for yourself and your baby started with one simple conversation today? Get the free information you need right now.
This article provides a clear look at your options, the local resources available to you, and the first steps you can take if you find yourself thinking, "I am pregnant and don’t know what to do in Florida."
I’m Pregnant and Don’t Know What to Do in Florida
If you just saw a positive test and your first thought was, "I am pregnant and don’t know what to do," please take a deep breath and know that you are not alone. Many women across the Sunshine State have been in your shoes, feeling a rush of fear and uncertainty about the future.
It is completely normal to feel overwhelmed, but your feelings are valid and you have time to find support for your pregnancy before making a final decision.
In Florida, your path forward is entirely your own. Whether you choose to parent, pursue a termination, or create an adoption plan, there are resources designed to help you navigate the legal and emotional complexities of each choice.
What Are My Unplanned Pregnancy Options in Florida?
When you are considering all of your options and learning how to decide what to do with an unplanned pregnancy, having neutral, fact-based information is your most powerful tool. Florida law provides specific protections and requirements for each of the following three pregnancy choices.
Abortion
If you are considering abortion in Florida, it is vital to understand the current legal landscape. Under Florida Statutes § 390.0111, abortion is generally prohibited after six weeks of gestation.
Exceptions are limited to cases where the procedure is necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman or to prevent a serious risk of substantial and irreversible physical impairment.
Florida law also requires a 24-hour waiting period following an in-person consultation before a termination can occur.
Parenting
Choosing to parent means taking on the lifelong journey of raising your child.
If this pregnancy was unplanned, you might be worried about the financial or emotional resources required.
There are many Florida-based resources, such as WIC and local community support groups, designed to help new mothers find their footing.
Adoption
Adoption is a way to give your baby a life full of opportunities while you continue to pursue your own goals.
Working with a licensed agency like American Adoptions of Florida means you have a team of specialists who handle the legal and logistical details for you.
You remain in control throughout the entire process, choosing the family and deciding what kind of relationship you want to have with your child.
Did You Know You Can Receive Full Financial Support Throughout Your Pregnancy?
One of the most important things to know when figuring out what to do if you have an unplanned pregnancy is that choosing adoption never costs the birth mother anything.
In Florida, all your medical and legal expenses related to the adoption are covered.
Beyond that, Florida Statutes § 63.097 allows for reasonable living expenses to be paid by the adoptive family through the agency if you are unable to pay for them yourself.
This financial assistance can cover the cost of the adoption process and daily necessities like:
- Rent and utilities
- Groceries and food
- Maternity clothing
- Transportation to medical appointments
Your Clear Step-by-Step Guide to Navigating the Florida Adoption Journey
If you decide that adoption is the right what to do about unplanned pregnancy for you, the process is structured to prioritize your safety and choices. You can follow these steps to placing a baby with an agency:
Find a Safe Space to Process Your Feelings Without Any Pressure to Decide
We understand that you may still be looking for what to do with an unplanned pregnancy and aren't ready to make a permanent decision.
American Adoptions of Florida offers 24/7 confidential, no-pressure pregnancy counseling with licensed specialists.
Our focus is on helping you find the path that is truly best for your life, whether that is adoption or parenting.
Will I Get to Choose the Adoptive Family?
Absolutely. You have full autonomy in choosing an adoptive family to raise your child.
You can specify everything from where the family lives to whether they have other children or pets.
You can even meet the family via a conference call or in person before the birth to ensure they are the right fit. This is your choice, and you set the boundaries that make you feel comfortable.
Navigating the Legal Complexities of Birth Father Rights in Florida
Birth father rights in Florida are governed by Florida Statutes § 63.054, which establishes the Florida Putative Father Registry.
To preserve the right to notice and consent, an unmarried biological father must generally file a claim of paternity with the registry before the petition for termination of parental rights is filed.
If the father is served with a Notice of Intended Adoption Plan, he has 30 days to respond and establish his commitment to the child. Our legal team can help you navigate these complexities based on your situation.
Should I Give My Baby Up for Adoption?
Only you can decide if adoption is right for your baby. But choosing adoption isn't "giving up"; it is making a proactive, loving choice for your child’s future.
It can give your baby a life with a family that is emotionally and financially prepared, while allowing you to take control of your own path.
You know your life better than anyone else, and you are the only one qualified to decide what is best.
How American Adoptions of Florida Can Help
American Adoptions of Florida is a local, licensed agency dedicated to supporting women at every stage of their pregnancy.
We provide 24/7 counseling, help you secure financial assistance, and offer the personal experience of specialists who have been in your shoes. Our goal is to ensure you feel safe, seen, and empowered as you move forward.
Imagine moving forward with your choice feeling confident and supported every step of the way. Would you like to speak with a Florida adoption specialist today and get a free, confidential information kit?
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.
