If you suspect you are pregnant, the first thing to do is to
take a pregnancy test. To schedule an appointment for a free test,
call 301-262-1330.
If you are pregnant, you have three options:
Parenting
Often the thought of parenting is met with joy and excitement. However,
when a pregnancy is unplanned, it can bring about fear and uncertainty.
Parenting is not for everyone. However, with support, many women
can overcome their fears and financial/life barriers and parent.
Our clinic can help you decide if parenting is right for you. In
addition, should you decide to parent, we can offer you guidance
through referals for aid as well as access to our excellent free
parenting program: Life $ense.
Adoption
Choosing an adoption plan for your child is a loving, unselfish
option. In the words of one of our clients, "I knew there was
a plan for my child, but the plan was for another family who awaited
him." Adoption has changed dramatically over the years, allowing
many more options for the birth parents--including the option to
have ongoing contact with the adoptive family. Our clinic can provide
more information on choosing an adoption plan as well as help you
find the right agency to meet your needs.
Abortion
Many see abortion as a solution to an unplanned pregnancy. It
is important to understand that abortion is a permanent decision.
There are physical, emotional, and spiritual risks involved--for
both the mother and father of the baby. Knowing and evaluating
these risks and other options is your right and responsibility.
Truthful, accurate information about fetal development and the
abortion procedure, as well as having a viability ultrasound*
are crucial to good decision making. Our clinic can provide this
information and discuss your concerns, all free of charge.
* An Ultrasound will determine viability, or the survivability,
of the pregnancy. Approximately 30% of all pregnancies end in
spontaneous miscarriage and if the pregnancy is not viable (alive),
you don't need an abortion.