Pregnancy Options
You need to decide what’s best for YOU, and we are here to help you figure that out. Knowing all you can about your pregnancy options is the best way to for you to make an informed decision. Women’s Help Center provides accurate information on all of your options, including:
~Having an Abortion
~Making an Adoption Plan
~Parenting your Child
All of our services are confidential, and provided at no cost. These include:
~Pregnancy tests
~Limited ultrasound upon evaluation
Even if you are considering abortion it is important to have an ultrasound. Almost 25% of all pregnancies do not develop into a viable fetus, even with a positive pregnancy test
~Options information
~Community referrals
Abortion
Some things to consider before deciding on abortion:
What type of abortion is available to me, based on the gestational age of my pregnancy?
What should I expect to happen during the abortion and after?
What are the potential risks and complications of abortion?
What are my rights as a patient?
Please see the Abortion Tab of this website for information on all of the questions above.
Adoption
Taking time to learn more about adoption will help you learn more about whether adoption may be a good choice for you. Some things to consider:
What are the different types of adoption?
While the majority of birth moms choose an open adoption, that may not be the best choice for you. There are three types of adoption available:
~Open: with an open adoption, you can choose the family that your child grows up with. You can also meet them, if you like, and be involved in your child’s life through letters, pictures and possibly visits. You and your child will know each other.
~Semi-Open: with this type of adoption, you can choose the family your child will grow up with, and you can meet them, if you like. You will receive regular updates on your child (pictures, letters) through your adoption agency or attorney.
~Confidential: With a confidential or closed adoption, the adoption attorney or agency will choose your baby’s new family. You and the family will not know each other’s names, addresses, or even locations.
What are my rights as a birth mom?
Your feelings are important, and your adoption agency/attorney should always respect your rights. Take time to think about what you want, and to determine what is best for you and your baby. As your baby’s birth mom, you can change your mind at any time before the placement of your baby is legally finalized.
Does an adoption cost me money?
Exploring and making an adoption plan does not cost you any money. In fact, financial assistance is available to help you with your bills, prenatal care, and other essential expenses. Professional counseling is also available before and after the adoption.
Parenting
Is keeping your baby the right decision for you?
Many women (married and single) choose to carry and raise their baby. The important thing to remember is that there is no such thing as a “perfect parent.” All parents make mistakes, and all good parents learn from their mistakes. The most important thing that a child needs from their parent is unconditional love.
If you choose to parent your baby, there are resources available that can help you with items needed for your baby (diapers, formula, clothing), daycare, and more. Many places even offer classes on childbirth and parenting, so don’t be afraid to ask for help.