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Concerns & Options 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
410-788-4433.
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 practical help through
referrals and multiple resources.
Adoption
Choosing an adoption plan for your child is a loving, unselfish
option. 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 sonogram* are crucial to good decision making. Our
clinic can provide this information and discuss your concerns,
all free of charge.
*A sonogram will determine viability 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.
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Below are some of the similarities and differences.
Similarities
ADOPTION
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ABORTION
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You can pursue earlier goals and plans.
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You can pursue earlier goals and plans.
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You can live independently.
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You can live independently.
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You will not have to parent prematurely.
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You will not have to parent prematurely.
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You will be free from the financial burdens of parenting.
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You will be free from the financial burdens of parenting.
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You will have the freedom to choose if you want to have a long-term relationship with the baby's father.
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You will have the freedom to choose if you want to have a long-term relationship with the baby's father.
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You can resume your education or career.
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You can resume your education or career.
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Differences
ADOPTION
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ABORTION
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Your pregnancy ends with giving life.
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Your pregnancy ends with death.
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You may feel good and positive about your choice
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You may feel guilt and shame about your choice.
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You will remember giving birth.
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You will remember taking a life.
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You will have plenty of time to plan your and your baby's future.
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Abortion is final; you can't reverse your decision.
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You can hold, name, and love your baby.
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You will never know or treasure your baby.
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You can have conitinued contact with your child.
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You will miss the opportunity to see your child develop.
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Source: Life Cycle Books (800-214-5849) ©Bethany 1998 |
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