Women weighing their options when facing an unexpected pregnancy may consider abortion and adoption as possibilities. Making an appointment with your local pregnancy center or speaking with someone you trust can provide the support and guidance you need when making this decision. The PRC of Glenwood Springs does not perform or refer for abortion.
What Is Abortion?
Elective abortions terminate a viable pregnancy without needing a life-threatening diagnosis behind the decision. Like other medical procedures, there are risks, complications, and side effects to understand before undergoing the process.
Women deserve to have all questions and concerns discussed before an abortion. Risks vary depending on the type of procedure used. However, some risks to discuss with a trusted physician or pregnancy center are:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
Other risks may include:
- Perforation of the uterus
- Damage to the cervix
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
- Infection
Although you may feel relief at first, the Mayo Clinic states feelings of loss, sadness, or guilt may occur and necessitate speaking with a professional counselor. Furthermore, a study published on the National Library of Medicine website states, “some women do have significant mental health issues that are caused, triggered, aggravated, or complicated by their abortion experience.”
Lastly, women should receive a complete physical exam, provide a list of currently used medications, discuss their health history, and confirm pregnancy through ultrasound and a pregnancy test. These things are important to help safeguard your health and wellness.
What Is Adoption?
There are several types of adoption options available. You may choose one based on your preference. Some of these options include:
- Open adoption
- Semi-Open adoption
- Closed adoption
Adoption can be both beautiful and difficult. Women who choose this option may feel drawn to it because it allows hopeful couples to complete their family or for other personal reasons. Only by discussing adoption more thoroughly can you understand if this is an option you feel comfortable with. Speaking with someone you trust or a pregnancy center can help you make the right decision.
Where Can I Go for More Information?
Reach out to the Pregnancy Resource Center today to discuss all your available options and what might be suitable for you and your journey. We offer free pregnancy testing, ultrasound, STI testing, and options counseling at no cost to you. All appointments are free, confidential, and flexible, thanks to our mobile medical unit.
You don’t have to make this decision alone; we’re here to help and provide you with the support you deserve.