Author: Austin Choose Life

Are There More Options Than Abortion?

When facing an unplanned pregnancy, exploring your options might feel daunting or overwhelming. Abortion may be the only option you’ve considered so far, but you have two other pregnancy options: adoption and parenting. It is important to give yourself time to explore your options and make an informed decision. The good news is that you don’t have to navigate this alone.

First Care offers confidential support and early pregnancy services in a safe space that prioritizes your needs. We’re here to help you during this time.

Your Other Options

The more information you get about adoption and parenting, the less intimidating they may seem to you. Here’s a better look at both of your other options:

Adoption

Many women have a preconceived idea of what adoption looks like. The adoption process has improved over the years, allowing the birth mother to choose what the future may look like for her and her child.

First Care is home to an adoption agency called New Life Adoptions. With New Life Adoptions, you have three main types of adoption plans that you can choose from, including:

1. Open Adoption

You can choose the adoptive family and have direct contact with them and your child. You can decide how involved you want to be in your child’s life and even write up an openness agreement that you and the adoptive family want to adhere to.

2. Semi-Open Adoption

You can still contact the adoptive family and your child, but it will be through a professional adoption agency or intermediary, including New Life Adoptions. The agency will keep your identifying information confidential.

3. Closed Adoption

If you select this type of adoption plan, you will not have contact with your child or the adoptive family, and all parties’ identities are kept confidential. The court keeps adoption records sealed. In Minnesota, original birth certificates can be released to adoptees at the age of 18.

Adoption Considerations

Please note that adoption can be an emotionally challenging choice. While many expenses are taken care of, such as adoption legal fees and medical expenses not covered by insurance, it’s best only to choose this option if you are sure it’s right for you and your child.

Ask First Care about adoption. You will be connected with a social worker that will be with you every step of the way. Learning more about the option of adoption does not mean you are committing to it; the ball is in your court, and you have control.

2. Parenting

Do you desire to parent but aren’t sure if you’re ready? Becoming a parent is a major step in your life that comes with both responsibilities and rewards. If you are considering this option, you may have parenting questions and concerns like:

• What if I’m a single mom?
• How will I support myself financially?
• How will I be supported emotionally?
• What will my parents think?
• Can I continue school/college and parent?
• How do I take care of a newborn?
• What about childcare? Can I afford it?

It’s important to work through these questions and concerns. At First Care, we can help you explore parenting and provide free resources.

Free Options Counseling

To learn more about adoption and parenting, visit First Care. We provide the information you need to explore each of your pregnancy choices in a safe and confidential environment.

Schedule a free appointment to talk through your pregnancy options. Same-day appointments are available.

I’m Afraid of How My Partner Will React to My Unplanned Pregnancy

Discovering an unplanned pregnancy is overwhelming and, sometimes, frightening. Knowing you have to share the news with someone whose response is unpredictable is even scarier. While sharing difficult news can be nerve-wracking, we have some ideas that may make breaking the news a little easier.

First, Have You Verified Your Pregnancy?

At First Care, we provide free and confidential lab-quality pregnancy testing. These tests are over 99% accurate 7-10 days after conception and can give you reliable results. If your test is positive, we can schedule you for a free limited ultrasound.

A pregnancy test only indicates a possible pregnancy, but an ultrasound confirms if your pregnancy is viable (growing), where the pregnancy is located, and how far along you are in your pregnancy.

Now’s the time to also review your pregnancy options. The more information you have, the better you will feel about telling your partner.

How Do I Tell My Partner?

Once your pregnancy is confirmed, you’ll have the information to feel more confident when sharing with others. Remember, you are not obligated to tell your partner. Although complete honesty is often the best course of action, if you are fearful for your safety, you do not need to inform him.

Suggestions for Telling Your Partner About Your Pregnancy

If you want to tell your partner, here are a few suggestions for breaking the news:

• Meet in a public place to have your discussion.
• Take a trusted friend or family member with you.
• Let your partner know you have verified your pregnancy.
• Let them know your three options.
• Do not let them dictate which option you choose.
• Try to remain calm as you talk

If you feel unsafe talking to your partner, reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-SAFE (7233). You can also call the 24/7 MN Day One hotline at (866) 223-1111 or text them at (612) 399-9995.

You’re Not Alone

We are here for you. If you are anxious about informing your partner about your pregnancy, talk with us first. We offer free pregnancy services, resources, and referrals as well as compassionate support.

Set up a free and confidential appointment with a caring team member at your nearest First Care location. We can confirm your pregnancy and discuss your goals to determine your best course of action.

You do not have to face this alone. Schedule an appointment today.a

What Do I Need to Know if I Am Pregnant in College?

Being pregnant in college can be a nerve-wracking experience. However, as you assess your situation and take the next steps, know that you don’t have to experience them alone.

First Care provides free and confidential services that offer all the information you need to feel confident about your pregnancy decision. During a time when you feel like your future is up in the air, know that we’re here to help you process as you navigate what is next.

Keep reading to learn what to consider while pregnant in college. You can also schedule an appointment to connect with our staff.

You Can Still Continue Your Education.

Despite what you may have heard, pregnancy doesn’t mean you are unable to finish school and accomplish your dreams. No one can legally discriminate against you for being pregnant or having a child.

Title IX protects you from this discrimination. It requires schools to allow you to keep participating in classes and extracurriculars, provide reasonable accommodations like more frequent bathroom breaks, protect you from harassment, and more.

Excused absences also must be permitted for pregnancy and childbirth.

Though the law is on your side, you can also advocate for your rights by meeting with a Title IX coordinator or school counselor and reporting any problems.

You can still meet your academic goals. However, if you’re worried about the social aspect of an unexpected pregnancy, we can help.

This is Your Life. This is Your Decision.

Experiencing pregnancy while in college may feel unpredictable. You may worry about what your friends and classmates think, how you’ll tell your parents, and what options are available.

First Care is here for you. Our Client Advocates can assess your needs, provide community resources that offer support while in school, help you navigate conversations with loved ones, and more.

Even while you’re in school, you still have the right to make a pregnancy decision. No one can force you to choose one option over another.

We provide free, lab-quality pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds to confirm your pregnancy. We can also provide a Proof of Pregnancy Form for insurance or benefits purposes.

Once you’ve confirmed your pregnancy, we can discuss your options. The pregnancy decision is yours alone; we provide nonjudgmental information as you weigh each option.

You are stronger than you think. We’re here to help as you move forward.

Free and Confidential Services

First Care offers comprehensive pregnancy medical services in a safe, professional environment. You are not alone.

Schedule an appointment today. Same-day appointments are also available.

Coping with Grief After an Abortion: Next Steps

No matter what led to your decision to terminate a pregnancy, there is no predicting how you may feel after the procedure. Many women report feelings of anxiety, grief, or adverse mental health struggles post-abortion.

If you have had an abortion and are now feeling grief or regret, there are steps that you can take to find hope and healing, like seeking post-abortion help from Conquerors.

Process Your Feelings

The decision to have an abortion is deeply personal and can bring up complex emotions. Don’t feel like you have to minimize your feelings. Terminating a pregnancy and the loss associated deserves taking the time to process.

Sharing your experiences with those who have been in similar situations can be very helpful. Isolating yourself may feel tempting, but it could make healing harder in the long run. Instead, seek help from those trained in post abortion healing.

Seeking Post Abortion Support

You may find yourself struggling with difficult emotions or mental health challenges after an abortion. These challenges can significantly impact your daily life.

Some options to consider include individual mentoring or support groups with facilitators who have also experienced abortion and are trained in post-abortion support.

At Conquerors, we offer confidential, peer-based one-to-one or support group programs specifically for people processing complex feelings related to a past abortion.

Schedule an Appointment

Remember, there is no single “right” way to feel after an abortion – your grief is valid and deserving of support. If you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone, and that help is available.

We are here to help you find the help and resources you need to move forward. Hope and healing are possible.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment to learn more about our one-to-one mentoring program or our 9-week-long Conquerors support group program.

All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.

What Are My Second-Trimester Pregnancy Options?

While schools divide a year into two semesters, fall and spring, a pregnancy is divided into three trimesters. The first trimester is from week one to week 13, the second is from week 14 to week 26, and the third is from week 27 to week 40.

Choosing to Parent

Just because your pregnancy is unplanned, it doesn’t meIn Minnesota, you have three options for your pregnancy during the second trimester. You can choose to parent, make an adoption plan, or have an abortion. Let’s take a closer look at all three.

an it’s impossible to parent. You may be surprised at the number of resources available to help you.

Minnesota assists single parents and families managing financial strain with the following services, depending on eligibility:

• Housing
• Utilities
• Medical and Dental Care
• Food
• Childcare
• Emergency cash

At First Care, we offer resources personalized to your family situation, including:

• Community Resources
• Grants and Financial Aid Assistance
• Prenatal Classes
• Birthing Classes
• Parenting Program
• Baby Items (including diapers, wipes, clothing, equipment, etc.)

Making an Adoption Plan

If you don’t feel prepared to parent at this time, you may want to consider making an adoption plan for your child. You are in control of the process every step of the way.

You can choose the adoptive parents who raise your child. By personally selecting a family, you are able to decide the home and environment that is best for you and your child. There are different levels of openness that you are able to pick from. In each phase of the adoption process, you are supported and empowered in whatever decision you make.

Here are some of the benefits of choosing to make an adoption plan for your child:

• No cost for birth parents
• Continuing a relationship with your child
• Financial assistance for food, clothing, housing, etc.
• Counseling before and after the placement occurs
• Receive legal representation
• Ongoing support

Selecting adoption is a difficult decision, but the ball is in your court. By meeting with one of our Expectant Parent Social Workers, you can learn more about the process, look through family profiles, and communicate your preferences. Meeting with a social worker does NOT mean that you have committed to an adoption plan. You are able to change your mind at any point until the adoption placement is secure.

Having an Abortion

Your third option is to have an abortion. Minnesota law approves abortion throughout your pregnancy, so it is possible to have a second-trimester abortion.

We do not perform or refer for abortion, but we can give you medically-accurate information about abortion procedures, potential side effects, and the associated risks.

There are two main types of abortion: medication abortion and surgical abortion.

Medication Abortion (aka the abortion pill method)

• The FDA approves the use of abortion drugs through 10 weeks of pregnancy, which is only within the first trimester. An ultrasound can help to determine how far along you are in your pregnancy.
• The later you are in your pregnancy, the less effective the drugs are.
• Side effects include bleeding, cramping, fever, and diarrhea.
• Risks include an incomplete abortion, heavy bleeding, infection, and fever.

Surgical Abortion

• At 14 or more weeks, you may have a procedure called dilation and curettage (D & C).
• An article printed in the National Library of Medicine concluded that women having second-trimester abortions were more likely to report pain.
• Side effects include bleeding and cramping.
• Risks include infection, uterine perforation (the surgical instrument pokes a hole in the uterus), and heavy bleeding.

Visit First Care for More Information

Schedule a free and confidential appointment with one of our professional client care workers at one of our First Care locations. We can discuss your individual situation and all the options that are available to you.

All of our services are free and confidential. We’re here for you every step of the way.

What Can I Do if I’m Afraid of Giving Birth?

Maybe you’re considering parenting or adoption, but the thought of birth feels like too much for you. We completely understand your concerns.

Before we share some action steps, here are a few facts to keep in mind:

• Birth is a common experience; women have given birth to every human on earth.
• Birth is a natural process that your body knows how to do.
• Birth leads to the delivery of a child, which makes the experience worth it.

While those facts might not alleviate fears, they add helpful perspective as you prepare.

Here are some steps you can take if you want to choose parenting or adoption but feel hesitant about labor and birth.

1. Educate Yourself

Often, fear comes from the unknown. By educating yourself on labor or birth, taking classes, or reading an informative book, you will understand the stages and what to expect.

2. Explore Pain Management Options

There are many pain management options available. You may decide you want an epidural, which is an injection to provide pain relief, or a total lack of feeling in an area temporarily.

Or, you may opt for a natural birth or birth with other pain management options. You have choices and can work with your care team to pick the right one for you.

3. Exercise Regularly

Healthy lifestyle factors like exercise can make birth easier.

According to a research study, regular exercise can help reduce the risk of cesarean delivery (C-sections) in those giving birth for the first time.

Certain exercises like squats can help your muscles prepare for squatting during labor.*

*Consult with your doctor before performing exercises during pregnancy.

4. Create a Birth Plan

Creating a birth plan is one of the best ways to prepare for labor and birth. A birth plan outlines your preferences and informs your care team.

While birth might not go to plan and medical interventions may be necessary, it can help you feel more at ease to have a plan in place.

5. Ask Questions in a Safe Space

First Care offers a safe space to ask questions and equips you for the road ahead.

Join us for our six-session birth class to prepare with other pregnant women. You will be able to experience community and learn along the way.

Contact us today for more information on how First Care can support you during this time.

My Birth Control Failed: What Do I Do?

No method of birth control or contraception can completely prevent pregnancy. If you’re seeing a positive result on your at-home pregnancy test, then it’s clear your birth control failed.

While this can be extremely nerve-racking, know that you are not alone. Many women find themselves experiencing an unexpected pregnancy and visit First Care for support.

Here are some next steps to take after discovering you are pregnant despite using birth control.

1. Confirm Your Pregnancy

A positive pregnancy test doesn’t tell the full story. It’s possible to have a positive test and then learn that there are complications with your pregnancy. Only an ultrasound scan can confirm the viability and location of your pregnancy.

About 10-20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage. Miscarriage occurs when the pregnancy ends on its own before the 20th week of pregnancy.

About 2% of pregnancies are ectopic, which happens when a fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus, typically in a fallopian tube. This type of pregnancy is non-viable, meaning it cannot be carried to term and survive. It can also be potentially life-threatening.

An ultrasound scan can screen for either of these complications by detecting a heartbeat and verifying the location of your pregnancy. It’s critical to receive an ultrasound, no matter the options you are considering, so that you can be informed and protect your health.

2. Learn Your Gestational Age

An ultrasound can also tell you how far along you are, which is important for all three of your options: parenting, adoption, and abortion.

For parenting and adoption, you will learn your probable due date, allowing you to plan ahead.

If you’re considering an abortion, knowing the pregnancy’s gestational age will determine your available abortion options. The abortion pill is only FDA-approved for use within the first ten weeks of pregnancy. After that, you would have to opt for another type of abortion.

3. Weigh Your Options

Once you have confirmed your pregnancy’s viability, location, and gestational age, you can start weighing and assessing your options. You might not know what to do at first, but looking into each option can bring clarity.

Ask yourself questions like “Could I see myself choosing this option?” or “What would my future look like if I picked this?”

Then, take stock of your resources. If you are considering parenting but feel it’s too difficult or expensive, many organizations like ours are ready to provide support, classes, and supplies.

Choose for yourself. The decision will impact you more than anyone else.

Start with First Care

First Care offers 100% free and confidential pregnancy services, including lab-quality pregnancy testing and ultrasounds. We are here to support you as you consider what to do next.

Schedule an appointment

What Do I Need to Know if I Am Pregnant in High School?

You might have imagined Friday night football games, learning to drive, and attending prom during high school, but not pregnancy.

If you’re in high school and recently found out that you’re pregnant, we are here to support you. We know that this can be a shocking and stressful situation. Scheduling an appointment at First Care can be a great first step as you will have a safe space to discuss all your options with our licensed, compassionate staff members.

As you process, here are a few things to keep in mind if you are pregnant as a high schooler.

You Have Rights

You may wonder what continuing your high school classes and activities could look like.

Under Title IX, you receive protection from any discrimination based on pregnancy or parenting in educational programs or activities. Any school — public or private — that receives federal funds must comply.

This protection means you can continue with your school year and any programs you participate in. Here are a few things your school must do:

• Allow you to continue participating in classes and extracurricular activities
• Provide you with reasonable adjustments, such as a larger desk or more frequent trips to the restroom
• Excuse absences for pregnancy or childbirth for as long as a doctor says is necessary
• Allow you to return to the same academic and extracurricular status
• Protect you from harassment

2. Your Future Extends Beyond High School

While it’s incredibly overwhelming to face an unexpected pregnancy, especially in high school, it’s critical to think beyond your high school years.

Your decision will change your life. You must make a choice you feel comfortable having as part of your story.

If you’re concerned about what others might think of you or your reputation, remember that you may not see many of your classmates in a few years. They may move, attend different colleges, or start full-time jobs. Those you stay in touch with will be the ones you consider your closest friends.

Don’t let others or fear decide what is next for you. Make your next choices based on what you want for your future.

3. You Have Three Choices

You have three choices: parenting, abortion, and adoption. While your parents or partner may have opinions or try to pressure you, remember that the decision is ultimately yours.

We can provide you with accurate information on all three of these options and resources. You deserve to make an informed and empowered choice.

Visit First Care for Pregnancy Confirmation

If you’ve only had a positive pregnancy test, it’s time for a free ultrasound.

An ultrasound aims to confirm the viability of your pregnancy, get an accurate gestational age (based on fetal measurements), and look at the placement of the pregnancy. During this appointment, you will be supplied with important information regarding your health and pregnancy options. Schedule an appointment today!

What Are the Early Pregnancy Symptoms?

The time between when you had sex and your expected period can feel like forever when you’re waiting to find out if you’re pregnant.

Most at-home pregnancy tests instruct you to wait until close to or after your missed period to get an accurate result. During that waiting time, you may experience signs and symptoms that make you suspect you’re pregnant.

Here are a few early pregnancy signs and symptoms you could experience.

1. Nausea with or without Vomiting

Have you been feeling nauseous? Commonly known as “morning sickness,” pregnancy nausea can happen at any time of day or night. While the cause isn’t fully known, it’s likely due to hormonal changes during pregnancy.

2.Tender, Swollen Breasts

If your breasts feel tender to touch, sore, or swollen, this could be an early pregnancy symptom. However, it can be similar to how your breasts can feel before a monthly period.

One difference during pregnancy is that your areolas (the area around your nipples) can darken and enlarge. If you notice this change, it could be a sign of pregnancy.

3.Fatigue

Do you feel sleepy, tired, or want to nap? Fatigue is a common early pregnancy symptom likely caused by high levels of the hormone progesterone. If you feel like you just can’t rest enough and you have lower-than-normal energy levels, it could be pregnancy.

4.Frequent Urination

Maybe you used to go hours without using the restroom, and now you have to look for one whenever you leave the house.

When pregnant, the body’s blood supply increases, causing the kidneys to process more fluid. The kidneys filtering more blood means extra fluid will end up in the bladder, leading to more frequent urges to urinate.

5.Missed Period

A missed period is one of the most obvious signs that you could be pregnant. However, women with irregular periods may not notice right away.

When you become pregnant, your body releases hormones to stop ovulation and menstruation. This means that you will not have a period until after pregnancy.

Are You Ready for Pregnancy Testing?

If you’ve missed your period, it’s time to take a pregnancy test.

Visit First Care for free lab-quality pregnancy testing. If your pregnancy test result is positive, we can schedule a free ultrasound scan to provide more information regarding your pregnancy as you navigate your next steps.

Schedule a confidential appointment at one of our five locations today!

I’m Pregnant, and My Partner Is Abusive

If you are pregnant and feel powerless to escape your abusive relationship, you are not alone. You deserve to feel respected and safe in your relationships, and we are here to support you as you navigate this challenging situation.

If you require immediate assistance, please do not hesitate to contact the National Domestic Abuse Hotline at (800) 799-7233, or call 911. 

At First Care, we help provide emotional support and practical resources as you navigate your pregnancy, regardless of your situation. You are not stuck or alone. A life of freedom and hope is possible.

Find A Place Safe

If your partner has shown any signs of behaving aggressively or physically hurting you, it’s important to find a safe place as soon as possible. Even if there hasn’t been any actual violence, if your partner’s behavior is unpredictable or getting worse, it’s crucial to relocate to somewhere that you can be safe. Some options include:

• Staying with a friend or family member
• Contacting a local church for assistance
• A local women’s shelter 
• Staying at a hotel or another short-term rental while you create a plan

Consider Whether to Contact Law Enforcement

If you are facing physical abuse and are in immediate danger, it’s highly important that you seek help from the police right away. Physical abuse is a crime, and the police can assist in ensuring your safety.

While it’s understandable that you may not feel comfortable discussing your experience, especially if the assault happened recently, it’s essential to report the abuse so that you can be safe.

Seek Healing and Make a Plan

If you are living with an abusive partner, it doesn’t have to stay that way. You deserve a whole, fulfilling life free from fear. Acknowledging that fact alone is the first step towards freedom.

At First Care, we’re here for you. We can connect you to local resources to help support you during your pregnancy and beyond. 

Contact us today to make an appointment!