The decision to make an adoption plan for a baby is a difficult one. It takes a lot of research and thought. Remember, adoption is permanent. The adoptive parents will raise your child. You will give up all legal claims to him or her.

Getting as much info about all your pregnancy options can help you make a decision you feel good about. You might start by talking to your parents, school counselor, or another trusted adult about these and other questions you may have:

• What are the pros and cons of adoption?
• What are the pros and cons of abortion?
• What are the pros and cons of teen parenting?

Because pregnancy can affect your emotions, you really need to think it through carefully. Talking to someone else can help you sort out your feelings, and do the necessary research into all of your questions.

For example, you may want to find out: What are my beliefs about abortion? How much does it cost to give birth in a hospital? Does my school have a childcare program? Which type of adoption feels the best to me?

You can find a counselor in several ways:

• Through a family planning clinic
• By calling a professional certified counselor or therapist
• Through mental health centers
• At a family service agency (look in your local yellow pages under "Social Services," or "Family Social Services," or "Family Counseling Services").

For more information, see our sections on adoption, abortion, and teen parenting.