Choosing to have an abortion is a major medical decision that can have physical and emotional consequences. You are wise to wait to make a decision until you learn more about it. Remember, only you can make this decision. Here are some steps we recommend you take to decide what’s best for your pregnancy.
Learn About All Your Options
You have more than one option for your pregnancy. Learning as much as possible about each is essential.
Abortion
Your friends are probably telling you this will make it all go away. But is that true? There are serious physical risks with abortion, like heavy bleeding, infection, and the potential for an incomplete procedure (the pregnancy ends, but not all pregnancy tissue leaves your body).
An abortion can also have emotional consequences. According to one study, there is a definite connection between abortion and mental health issues, especially if you already struggle with anxiety.
For more information about abortion procedures, the side effects you should be aware of, and potential risks, talk with a member of our medical team of professionals. Your appointment is free and confidential. Although we do not perform or refer for abortion, we’ll present the medical facts without judgment or pressure.
Making an Adoption Plan
So much needs to be understood about adoption today. Nowadays, the expectant woman makes all the decisions for the adoption. She chooses the couple she wants to raise her child and the future she hopes for the child to have.
It costs a woman nothing to use adoption services, and Kentucky ensures expectant women receive thorough medical and legal care, as well as financial assistance for other court-approved pregnancy-related expenses.
Although we cannot place your child for adoption, we can provide referrals to professional, licensed adoption agencies in our area. Contact us to learn about the various types of adoption plans, your rights as a birth mother, and the various ways to stay in touch with your child, if desired, as they grow.
Parenting
An unplanned pregnancy does not mean it’s impossible to become a parent. Although challenging, parenting is definitely possible. There are many resources available to assist you when you choose to parent.
We offer free parenting education, such as classes on prenatal care during pregnancy, labor and delivery, and caring for a newborn. You receive free maternity clothing and baby items when you complete our classes.
Learn about all of the social services available in Kentucky, such as public assistance, emergency assistance, financial and protective services, and food and nutrition services. We can connect you with many of these services for free.
Get Tested for STIs
Pregnancy doesn’t protect from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In fact, an STI can complicate your pregnancy and can have serious effects on you and the developing fetus.
Many STIs have no symptoms, but if left untreated, they could cause serious health complications. You and your partner could be positive and not know it. That’s why regular STI testing is crucial.
At BsideU for Life, we offer free and confidential testing and treatment for particular STIs. Whether you are pregnant or not, STI testing is critical for your health.
Remember, It is Your Decision
Regardless of what your friends tell you, only you can decide what to do. You owe it to yourself to take your time, ask questions, and think about the options.
We’re here for you and have nothing to gain from your decision. Our caring team members want to help you. We know this is a highly stressful time and that you’re likely getting advice from everyone. But what matters most is making your own well-informed decision.
Set up a free and confidential appointment to discuss your situation and get tested for STIs. Text or call us, or fill out our convenient online Contact Form. You have nothing to lose.