MARAL Pro-Choice Michigan : Pregnant? Need Help?

•

Donate

•

Site Guide

Pregnant? Need Help?

You may be reading this section today because you are looking for help with an unplanned pregnancy. You may feel nervous about your situation. Handling an unplanned pregnancy can be a very emotional experience for some women. However, you are not alone; 50% of all pregnancies are unplanned. You should also know that there are many choices available to you. Here, you will find links to real resources and professionals who will respect your right to make the decision that is best for you.

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN YOU SELECT AN ABORTION PROVIDER

We know it can be confusing and a little bit scary picking a doctor from the yellow pages or the internet. If you are careful, you'll find your best and safest choice.

Watch out for "Fake Clinics."

These groups say they offer pregnancy tests, family planning and counseling but are anti-abortion! Their job is to talk women out of abortions. To be sure you are in a pro-choice facility-ask to make an abortion appointment. If the person refuses, tries to make you watch a film or talk you out of an abortion...just walk out.

When making telephone inquiries listen for:

Staff willing to give information and answer questions.

Staff who take time to answer your questions.

Phone counselors who know their stuff!

Ask to visit the clinic before an appointment to talk to a counselor. If you are not a welcome guest, call another clinic.

Ask if the clinic offers counseling. Is it individual or in a group? Is there an extra charge? What does counseling consist of?

Ask what lab tests will be performed. A minimum for abortion care is Rh typing, pregnancy test or ultrasound, and hematocrit or hemoglobin. Ask if the clinic is CLIA Certified.

Does the clinic offer birth control counseling and services? Will the clinic provide follow-up services for your routine birth control care?

Abortion information to ask:

How long will it take?

What kind of procedure will you have?

Who will be in the procedure room with you?

What qualifications does the doctor have?

How long has s/he been performing abortions?

Will you get an anesthetic?

If so, what kind and is there an extra charge?

Is the expensive (general) anesthetic being "pushed?"

Is there a charge for the post-op exam? If so, how much?

Does the phone counselor sound exasperated with your questions?

Is there a 24-hour phone number for you in case of emergencies?

Does the fee quoted cover the entire cost?

Is there a recovery room separate from the exam room?

Finally:

Have you felt uncomfortable at any time during your call?

Were you treated with respect?

Do you feel good about making an appointment at this clinic?

Information provided by Northland Family Planning. Visit their website (http://www.northlandfamilyplanning.com/) for more information.