When you’re in the midst of an unplanned pregnancy, your whole world can feel so completely out of control that it may help to write an action plan for all the things you’ll need to do over the coming months. Following is a checklist of items which are useful to consider whether you ultimately choose adoption or not. It is by no means complete, but it will get you started in your planning.

• Tell everyone who needs to know that you are pregnant. Stress that you do not want to be pressured, and that you will be taking your time to consider all your options.
• Find an OB/GYN you like and trust, and attend prenatal appointments.
• Decide where you will give birth and determine how your hospital stay will be paid for.
• Visit your local library to check out books on adoption and single parenting.
• Go to the store to learn the prices of baby items such as formula, diapers, etc.
• Learn about government assistance for low income mothers (such as the Women, Infant and Children program, or WIC). Find out if you qualify, and if so, apply.
• Check out various daycare options to find out how much child care will cost. Interview several different providers to see which one you would feel most comfortable with. (Do this early, because day care can fill up fast.)
• Discuss finances with the father of your baby to find out how much he is going to be willing or able to contribute.
• Prepare a budget.
• Make a list of items you will need for a baby, such as car seat, crib, bottles and blankets. Prioritize them into "must have," "optional," or "able to wait a few months." Remember that most things do not need to be purchased new, and that many people will be willing to help out a new mother by donating gifts for the baby. You can also have a shower that will allow people who want to contribute to do so.

(continued in next post)