If you have an unplanned pregnancy and know abortion is one option, you may question whether there are others. Adoption and parenting are two options that involve continuing your pregnancy.
This is your decision, and The Center for Women provides the information you need. All services are free and confidential.
Make an appointment to get started. In the meantime, keep reading to learn about your options.
What Do You Know About Abortion?
You’ve likely heard of abortion before. It is the only option that ends a pregnancy.
All abortion procedures come with side effects and risks. The method a woman chooses depends on several factors, including her gestational age (how far along she is).
Medical abortion uses drugs to end a pregnancy and is FDA-approved through 10 weeks gestation. These drugs cause bleeding and cramping, but women can also experience vomiting, chills, and more.
The procedure also poses certain health risks, including:
- Digestive symptoms (i.e., upset stomach)
- Fever
- Infection
- Heavy, prolonged bleeding
- An ongoing pregnancy (if the drugs don’t work)
- Incomplete abortion (when the body doesn’t release all the pregnancy tissue), which may need surgical treatment
Surgical abortion uses drugs, surgical tools, or suctioning (or a combination of these methods) to end the pregnancy.
Typical side effects can include light vaginal bleeding or spotting and mild cramping. However, risks can also occur, including:
- Perforated uterus (when a surgical tool pokes a hole in the uterus)
- Damage to the cervix (i.e., tearing)
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall (called Asherman’s syndrome, this can cause complications like painful periods and infertility)
- Infection
You should always discuss your health and situation with a healthcare provider if you are considering abortion. Our team can provide factual information on the procedures and risks and offer a limited ultrasound to confirm essential pregnancy details.
Considering Parenting?
Choosing parenting means you’ll continue your pregnancy and raise your child. Some people find this option rewarding, while others find it difficult.
Thinking carefully about your specific situation and feelings about this option is crucial. Vital steps include considering whether you’re interested in parenting and, if so, what resources you’d need to be confident and successful.
The Center for Women provides unbiased parenting information. We can discuss several factors, such as financial stability and the presence of a support system, that could influence your decision.
If you wish to parent, we provide various free services, including community referrals, parenting support groups, material support, and more.
Thinking about Adoption?
Adoption involves giving birth and placing your child in an adoptive family. Some women find this option emotionally challenging, while others find peace of mind in knowing their child is cared for.
Birth mothers do not pay for adoption services. Medical expenses are also covered if their insurance plan does not provide coverage.
Adoption is a significant decision requiring much thought and planning. Birth mothers can select the plan that best fits their needs and preferences:
- Open adoption: Regular communication occurs between the birth mother and adoptive family. The birth mother can form a relationship with the child.
- Semi-open adoption: All communication occurs through a third party (like an adoption agency or attorney). Limited information, like first names, may be exchanged.
- Closed adoption: The birth mother and adoptive family do not know the other’s identity. All records are sealed and kept confidential.
Choosing adoption for your child is entirely your choice. The Center for Women provides factual information on adoption and, if requested, refers you to reputable adoption agencies.
This is your pregnancy decision. We will listen to you and present your options in a trustworthy manner.
It’s Your Choice
The Center for Women is here for you during an unplanned pregnancy. You are welcome, safe, and respected with us.
Start receiving the information you need today. Schedule a free and confidential appointment.
The Center for Women does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.