Short answer? No.
If you’re pregnant and under 18, you absolutely have legal rights as a parent. No one – not your parents, not your boyfriend, not even a judge – can force you to place your baby for adoption if that’s not what you want.
Let’s break down what Texas law actually says and how to protect your right to do what feels right for you.
You Are the Legal Parent, Even if You Are a Teen
You are your baby’s legal parent the moment they are born.
Even if you’re a minor, Texas law recognizes your right to make decisions for your child. That includes the right to not place them for adoption even if someone else is pressuring you to.
What If Your Parents Disagree With Your Choice?
We know this is where things can get really hard. You might be living at home. You might depend on your parents for support. And if they don’t agree with your decision, whether it’s to parent your child or place them for adoption, that can feel overwhelming.
Here’s what you need to know:
- They can’t legally force you to sign adoption papers or give up custody.
- They can’t sign for you. Only you, as the birth parent, can consent to adoption.
- You don’t need their permission to make an adoption plan or to parent your baby.
That said, having support matters. If it’s safe, try to have an open and honest conversation. But if it’s not safe – or if you’re feeling threatened or manipulated – please reach out to someone who can advocate for you. That could be your doctor, a school counselor, a pastor or even an adoption professional.
What If You’re Being Pressured?
Pressure can look like a lot of things:
- Guilt-tripping (“You’ll ruin your life if you keep this baby.”)
- Threats (“We’ll kick you out if you don’t give the baby up.”)
- Controlling behavior (“We already talked to an adoption agency. It’s done.”)
None of that is okay. And none of it means you have to go through with something that doesn’t feel right to you.
You deserve space to make this decision based on your values, your future, and your love for your baby.
You Don't Have to Navigate This Alone
Whether you’re leaning toward adoption, parenting, or still figuring it out, you don’t have to make this decision in isolation. At Adoption Advocates, we offer:
- Confidential counseling (no pressure, no strings attached)
- Support for teens and young adults navigating unplanned pregnancy
- A safe space to explore your options and get help if you’re being pressured
- Referrals to organizations for additional support, like WIC, Medicaid and parenting classes
We’re here to listen and to advocate for you.
Need to Talk?
Call us at (512) 477-1122 to learn more or get help today. Expectant moms can also text an adoption specialist directly at (512) 270-8415.
You get to make this decision. Not your parents. Not anyone else. Just you.
