Search Results

At Life’s Choices, we are often asked where we, as a pregnancy center, stand on the pro-life/pro-choice issue. To help you understand Life’s Choices heart and mission a little bit better, here are answers to a few common questions. Is Life’s Choices pro-life or pro-choice? While we are very clearly a life-affirming organization, we are not political activists. In fact, we have many things in common with people of all political persuasions in that we want women to be empowered, to have choices, to have reliable information in order to make a decision about her pregnancy, and to have a successful future. Our supporters come from both political parties. The reality is that every woman has a choice when it comes to her pregnancy. She can choose to carry her baby to term, or she can choose to abort her baby. Only she can make that choice. It is our desire to offer her a safe, judgment-free zone to make a pregnancy decision that she will be able to live with, having no regrets. We are able to help by providing all the information she needs to make an informed decision, including what to expect with an abortion (we use a booklet provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Health), information about adoption, and the support that is available if she chooses to parent her child. We understand that she may be at a place where all her options are hard ones. It is our hope that she will find us to be a place of safety and compassion. Does Life’s Choices pressure a woman to change her mind if she is seeking an abortion? It is our goal to relieve pressure when talking with a woman about her pregnancy, not add pressure. She may feel pressured to terminate quickly before the pregnancy progresses. She may be feeling pressure from the baby’s father, her parents, or friends to make the decision that they think is best for her. Our mission is to help her to think clearly, without panic or pressure. Making decisions under pressure is never a good practice especially when the decision is irreversible. We believe women are capable of making their own decisions when given accurate information and weighing the risks and consequences of each option. The resources we use are medically credible, often provided from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, citing research, and approved by our medical director. In addition to medical information, we are able to share a different perspective: that of the woman who has been in her situation and is now looking back. While every woman’s experience will be unique, we believe it is helpful to see things from the perspective of others who have travelled that road before. At Life’s Choices we have the advantage of hearing the stories of many women who found themselves in an unexpected, untimely pregnancy. Their experience regarding the decision they made can be helpful to someone else. Is Life’s Choices pro-woman or pro-baby? Since an unborn baby is completely dependent upon his or her mother, the best way we can care about the baby is to care for the mother. We are passionate about helping women be successful. We want every woman to know that she can enjoy the rewards of parenting without sacrificing a great future. We want her to know it’s possible to have a baby and continue her education. We want her to know she can have a baby and a successful career. Women are incredibly strong, and it is our passion to tap into that strength when providing her with information and resources. Our experience is that women respond positively to the care and compassion they receive at Life’s Choices, regardless of her pro-life or pro-choice position. As in many things, what one believes in theory is often very different than the choice one makes when it becomes personal, and that goes both ways in regards to abortion. For those who go on to terminate their pregnancy, we welcome them to continue a relationship with us since they may experience many conflicting emotions. It is common to feel some immediate relief along with grief and loss. Our post abortion Bible study has been helpful for many women to process their abortion experience. Here With Open Arms We are here with open arms to welcome any woman who finds herself in need of pregnancy support, parenting resources, or post abortion recovery. If you’re experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, we welcome you to contact Life’s Choices today for help and support at no cost to you. We offer a variety of free resources including confirmation ultrasounds and pregnancy tests, prenatal and parenting classes, relationship classes, baby bundles, STD/STI testing and more. CONTACT US Disclaimer: Life’s Choices does not provide abortion referrals. #pregnancychoice #probaby #pennsylvania #prowoman #hamburg #prolife #prochoice #relationships #pregnancydecision #hamburgpennsylvania #kutztownpennsylvania #berkscounty #abortion #informedchoices #abortionissue #pregnancycenter #kutztown

Are at-home abortions, or “medical abortions,” safe? Unfortunately, there is no easy yes or no answer to that question. Like many things in life, we want easy solutions to our problems. Ending an unwanted pregnancy with a medical at-home abortion may seem like the solution to your problem. But is it? What risks and potential consequences are you willing to take? WHAT TO CONSIDER FIRST First, consultation is required with an abortion provider. Ideally this is an in-person visit, but since the pandemic, telehealth consultations have been approved and in some states the medication can be received through mail order pharmacies. How far along are you? Medical abortions need be done when a pregnancy is no more than 10 weeks (70 days or less since your last menstrual period). An ultrasound needs to be done to determine fetal age and viability. Is the pregnancy in the uterus, or is there an ectopic pregnancy? An ectopic pregnancy will not be expelled with medication and needs emergency medical attention. Are you receiving an ultrasound before beginning the abortion? ABOUT THE MEDICAL ABORTION PILLS The first pill taken in the office or at home, is mifepristone. This pill contains a drug that blocks the blood supply and nutrients needed to maintain a pregnancy. Cramping occurs as the lining of the uterus breaks down and is expelled through the vagina. The second pill , misoprostol, is taken at home, 24-48 hours later. This causes the uterus to contract, producing heavy bleeding to expel the embryo. You will not be able to do your normal daily activities during this time and will need a place to rest. This step may take two to three days to work. If it doesn’t work, an additional dose or a surgical procedure ( D&C ) may be needed. The further along a pregnancy is, the greater chance of the uterus not completely emptying. You will need to make a second visit to your abortion provider 7-14 days later to be sure the abortion is complete, there are no signs of infection, and that you are healing properly. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION A medical abortion isn’t an option if you have certain medical conditions like high blood pressure, heart, lung, kidney disease. If you have an IUD in place. If you have bleeding or clotting disorders or take blood thinners. If you have uncontrolled diabetes or an allergy to the medications being used. After you take the medication, it will cause abdominal cramping and heavy bleeding. It may also cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chills, headache, and weakness. Other warning signs you need to be aware of that require medical attention are heavy bleeding, passing large clots and soaking through two more sanitary pads in two hours, severe abdominal or back pain, fever, foul vaginal odor, loss of consciousness. These may occur due to infection or an incomplete abortion. Emergency care needs to be available and accessible during this procedure. LIFE’S CHOICES IS HERE FOR YOU Facing an unwanted pregnancy is never easy. Is a medical abortion safe and the answer for you? Consider carefully the medical and emotional risks as well as the long-term impact of your choice. Be certain, and don’t be pressured into a decision. Know your options. Life’s Choices is here to listen to you and to help you sort through your options. We offer pregnancy confirmation ultrasound and information on pregnancy options. All our services are free and confidential. If you’re looking for more information or someone to talk to about your decision, we welcome you to contact us today. We’re here for you, and you’re not alone. Contact Us Disclaimer: Life’s Choices is not an abortion clinic. Life’s Choices does not benefit financially from your pregnancy decision. Life’s Choices does not provide prenatal medical care, birth control, emergency contraception or abortions. We do not refer for emergency contraception or abortions. #ectopicpregnancy #abortioninformation #DampC #abortionpill #pennsylvania #hamburg #freeultrasounds #confirmationultrasound #medicalabortion #freeultrasound #mifepristone #womenshealth #berkscounty #abortion #misoprostol #abortionpills #freeresources #kutztown #ultrasounds #pregnancy

I had a miscarriage. Even now, almost two decades later, I feel funny sharing this very personal thing. My husband and I had tried for almost a year for our first baby, and we were so excited anticipating the birth of our child. I had an initial ultrasound and everything looked good. I even purchased a soft yellow teddy bear on a trip to the city to place in the future nursery. And then, the miscarriage just . . . happened. I didn’t realize at the time how common miscarriage, the loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week, is. The Mayo Clinic estimates one in every four or five pregnancies ends in miscarriage. Some experts suspect the rate is as high as 40%, as many women may not know they were pregnant at the time of loss. The causes of miscarriage vary widely and are often unknown, though doctors agree a common reason is a chromosomal abnormality in the developing fetus. The wording we use to describe this experience is difficult. Miscarriage makes it sound like a mistake, either the pregnancy itself or something the mother did wrong. “Lost the baby” is also hard. How could we lose, or misplace, something so precious to us? Add to that the cultural idea of not sharing the news of a pregnancy until you are in the second trimester and less likely – statistically – to miscarry, and no wonder the topic remains an unspoken one in our society at large. SHARING OUR STORIES In recent years, I’ve seen a shift in how people talk about miscarriage. In my own community, women and men are sharing their grief experiences. I stood in a hallway not so long ago, talking to one friend (who lost two babies before I was born) and another (who had miscarried multiple times in the past year) and we quietly wept together, sharing our stories. Some celebrities are to be applauded for taking on the “taboo” topic of miscarriage. Actor James Van Der Beek and his wife, Kimberly Brook, talk openly about the loss of their 6th child through miscarriage. “We decided to put ourselves out there—not knowing what we’d find—in an effort to chip away at any senseless stigma around this experience and to encourage people who might be going through it to open themselves up to love and support from friends and family when they need it most,” he said. Former first lady Michelle Obama miscarried her first pregnancy. “I felt lost and alone, and I felt like I failed,” Obama said. “I didn’t know how common miscarriages were, because we don’t talk about them. We sit in our own pain, thinking that somehow we’re broken.” That quote rings true to my experience. When I miscarried, I felt broken. Physically, emotionally, spiritually. How do you handle such a deep and abiding sense of brokenness? My husband and I made the hard and very personal decision to “go public” with our miscarriage when it happened in 2001. We told close family and friends in person and my husband, a pastor, made a brief announcement at prayer time during a worship service. In our case, this decision brought an unexpected blessing – it seemed every woman I knew wrote me a personal note sharing their own loss of a baby. There was a strange, sad comfort in knowing I was not alone in grappling with such a devastating situation. I still have these cards, bundled together with ribbon, in a keepsake box along with that sole, yellow stuffed bear I had purchased while still pregnant with that child. YOU ARE NOT ALONE If you are grappling with the grief of a miscarriage, please know first and foremost that you are not alone in your loss. If you are brave and talk to the people you know, you may find surprising sources of strength. Some will share their own stories. Others will drop off meals, offer rides to the doctor or simply sit quietly with you. Self-care skills may help. Take time off from your work or other obligations as you walk through your grief. Make sure you see a medical professional to confirm you are healing physically. Talk to your pastor about holding a ritual so that you and others can share your loss together. And consider seeing a counselor or grief therapist if you need additional help or support. FINDING HOPE For me, my faith in God was the thing that held me together in the roughest patches. I’ll be honest, at times I railed at God, asking how he could allow such a thing to happen. I cried over all the things I would miss with this child. But I found a growing solace in the idea that this baby was now at home with our Heavenly Father. A favorite verse at that time was Psalm 16:11, where the author, David, wrote that in God’s presence we experience “fullness of joy.” It’s important to remember that David himself experienced the loss of a loved baby (2 Samuel 12) but found comfort in knowing he would meet this child after his own death. And I found comfort as well in knowing my own child would never know the pain or loss I was feeling, and — because of my faith in Jesus — I would see her one day. I had a miscarriage. Two decades have passed, and I can tell you that I had a miscarriage, but I am ok. I love the kids I had later, but they didn’t replace the one I lost. I don’t think a day goes by that I don’t remember the baby I never got to hold. But I can tell you that, even if grief and loss never go away, a miscarriage is something you as a mother can survive. CONTACT US At Life’s Choices, we can offer a listening ear and resources if you are unsure how to handle your pregnancy loss. Let us know if we can help! Contact Us Today Kutztown: 610-683-8000 | Hamburg: 484-660-3526 #miscarriage #health #pregnancyloss #miscarriagehealing #mentalhealth #griefcounseling #grievingprocess #grief #abortionhealing

If you’ve recently found out you’re pregnant and are considering your options, it’s important to look at all the facts surrounding whatever your decision might be. As our clients at both our Kutztown and Hamburg, Pennsylvania offices seek out information on what to do next, they often ask us for more details about abortion and how it may impact their life. Are there health risks? Can abortion cause physical complications after? The decision to have abortion can impact women a variety of ways, and abortion has both physical and psychological risks, whether medical abortion or surgical abortion. According to research done by CompassCare (see their website for additional info and references), there can be common side effects, immediate complications and potential future health complications caused by an abortion. Should you be contemplating having an abortion, here’s what you need to know: COMMON SIDE EFFECTS OF HAVING AN ABORTION: Bleeding Cramping Dizziness Drowsiness Nausea/vomiting IMMEDIATE COMPLICATIONS THAT CAN HAPPEN AFTER ABORTION: Damage to the womb or cervix Incomplete abortion (requiring additional surgical procedure) Infection of the uterus or fallopian tubes Excessive or heavy bleeding Scarring of the inside of the uterus Sepsis or Septic shock (blood infection) Uterine perforation Death POTENTIAL FUTURE HEALTH RISKS FROM ABORTION: Future pre-term deliveries Breast cancer Pelvic inflammatory disease Mental health issues Infertility and future childbearing ( more info ) Sexual dysfunction For more information, please see this resource from Pennsylvania’s Department of Health . While it’s not possible to know how each woman’s body and mind will be specifically impacted by an abortion, it’s important to know the potential risks. When dealing with health decisions, we encourage you to seek out thorough medical information so that your choice can be an educated one. WHAT’S THE FIRST STEP? The best first step before making a decision about abortion is to confirm the viability of your pregnancy. As you seek your next steps, we welcome you to visit us for a free confirmation ultrasound that will detect a fetal heartbeat, determine gestational age and determine a viable uterine pregnancy. Your ultrasound will be reviewed by our medical director, and a licensed medical professional will be available to discuss the results. For more information, please contact Life’s Choices today – no pressure, no judgment and full confidentiality. All our services are free. Contact Us Disclaimer: Life’s Choices is not an abortion clinic. Life’s Choices does not benefit financially from your pregnancy decision. Life’s Choices does not provide prenatal medical care, birth control, emergency contraception or abortions. We do not refer for emergency contraception or abortions. #abortioninformation #mifeprex #abortionpill #pennsylvania #hamburg #freeultrasounds #misoprostal #confirmationultrasound #medicalabortion #abortioncomplications #freeultrasound #surgicalabortion #mifepristone #womenshealth #abortionrisks #berkscounty #abortion #abortionpills #freeresources #kutztown #ultrasounds #pregnancy

Perhaps you are dealing with an unplanned pregnancy right now and are considering your options. In this time of pandemic with sometimes limited medical help and resources, you may not know where to turn. Maybe you are considering the abortion pill. The abortion pill us advertised as a “safe at-home” way to have an abortion, but is it really safe? Could it be dangerous? Are you putting your health or even your life at risk? Consider these facts. WHAT IS THE ABORTION PILL? The abortion pill known as Mifeprex, Mifepristone or RU489, is a two-pill process to terminate an early pregnancy. This is done by cutting off progesterone (which is necessary to maintain a pregnancy), then inducing labor, causing the fetus and the lining of the uterus to be expelled. WHAT DOES EACH ABORTION PILL DO? First, this medication must by prescribed by a healthcare professional and usually requires at least two visits to the clinic to be sure the abortion is completed. It is only effective for a pregnancy that is 10 weeks (70 days) or less. 1st pill, Mifeprex (Mifepristone): Cuts off progesterone which is needed for a pregnancy to grow, and causes the lining of the uterus to break down. 2nd pill Misoprostal (Cytotec): Induces labor causing the fetus and uterine lining to be aborted. This may take several hours to 48 hours after Mifeprex is taken. WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER TAKING THE ABORTION PILL S? Heavy bleeding Large clots (may be the size of a lemon), and clumps of tissue Nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea Painful cramping and lower abdominal pain Tired, weak, back pain Pelvic pain WHAT ARE POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS FROM THE ABORTION PILL? Excessive bleeding Remaining fetal/pregnancy tissue resulting in an incomplete abortion Allergic reaction to the medication Possible infection, fever 100.4 or greater, chills, dizziness Severe pelvic pain No bleeding, cramping, contractions within 24 hours of taking the medication Procedure failure that could require another dose of medication or require a surgical abortion WOULD SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER THE ABORTION? Bleeding or spotting may occur for several weeks May need a blood test or ultrasound to make sure the abortion is completed Emotional side effects of loss, guilt, grief or depression may be felt Additionally, many women are not prepared for the intensity of cramping and the heavy bleeding that is part of the abortion process. Women should not be alone during this process and should have a plan ready if emergency medical care is needed. They will also need to dispose of any tissue and fetal remains. YOU’RE NOT ALONE If you find yourself experiencing an unexpected pregnancy, need someone to talk to, answer your questions, and discuss your options, contact Life’s Choices. We are ready to meet with you and provide you with information as you process this decision. To confirm you pregnancy, Life’s Choices offers pregnancy tests as well as a confirmation ultrasound, both free of charge. A caring, non-judgmental representative will help you navigate the choices ahead of you. Contact us today: Contact Us Disclaimer: Life’s Choices is not an abortion clinic. Life’s Choices does not benefit financially from your pregnancy decision. Life’s Choices does not provide prenatal medical care, birth control, emergency contraception or abortions. We do not refer for emergency contraception or abortions. #abortioninformation #mifeprex #abortionpill #pennsylvania #hamburg #freeultrasounds #misoprostal #confirmationultrasound #mifepristone #berkscounty #abortion #abortionpills #freeresources #kutztown #ultrasounds #pregnancy

At Life’s Choices we offer a variety of free services focused on pregnancy, family relationships and much more. With locations in Kutztown and Hamburg, Pennsylvania, our non-profit organization deeply cares about the well-being of our clients throughout the Berks County area and beyond. It is our goal to provide quality services in a friendly, non-judgmental environment. WHO WE ARE Life’s Choices takes a holistic approach to healthcare, which means we address our clients physical, emotional, and spiritual health. We do not discriminate in providing services based on race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, gender or orientation. In addition, we are proud to offer all of our services free of charge. Life’s Choices is able to do this thanks to our generous supporters who believe in our mission and care about our clients. WHAT WE OFFER Pregnancy Tests and Ultrasounds For the client facing a potential pregnancy, we offer both free in-office and take-home pregnancy tests . With the help of our trained consultants, our clients receive the necessary resources and information at no cost them as they consider their next steps. Our team discusses all of the client’s options, whether it be parenting, adoption or abortion, allowing the client to be prepared to make informed choices moving forward. We respect our client’s ability to make an informed decision. Free, limited diagnostic ultrasounds to confirm a viable pregnancy and measure gestational age are available in our Kutztown office. If needed, we can also help our client with information and assistance obtaining medical care, insurance, food, shelter and government assistance. STD Testing For those experiencing symptoms of STDs/STIs or seeking STD testing for any reason, we offer free, confidential STD testing and treatment . We test for chlamydia and gonorrhea and also provide a list of other local agencies that provide more comprehensive testing if needed. Pregnancy, Parenting and Life Skills Classes Life’s Choices also has a large variety of free individual and small group classes that can be taken in person, virtually, or over the phone. Classes provide accurate content along with relatable information. They address topics including: Pregnancy Infancy Toddlers Parenting Life skills Relationships Financial planning And more! Each class earns points that can be spent in our baby boutique on items such as clothing, formula, diapers, baby items or gift cards. Post-Abortion and Pregnancy Loss Support We are here to help clients who have been impacted by the loss of a pregnancy due to miscarriage or abortion. Whether your experience was recent or many years ago, we want to help you find healing. Our pregnancy loss support offers a safe place to talk with other women who understand. For those who have experienced a miscarriage or still birth we assist in providing resources that will help with healing and connecting with others who understand this loss. So many women suffer silently as they experience abortion regret. For those dealing with post-abortive heartbreak from a recent or past abortion, we offer a healing Bible study called Surrendering the Secret . This study connects women who understand this pain as they walk together on a life-changing journey of healing and hope. LEARN MORE We welcome you with compassion and love, and we are here to provide you with help and hope! If you’re interested in any of our services at either our Kutztown or Hamburg offices, contact us here or give us a call at 610-683-8000 (Kutztown) or 484-66-3526 (Hamburg). CONTACT US #berkscountypennsylvania #freepregnancyservices #pregnancyloss #pregnancyclasses #pennsylvania #hamburg #pregnancylosssupport #pregnancytest #hamburgpennsylvania #kutztownpennsylvania #berkscounty #postabortivecounseling #relationshipclasses #kutztown #lifeskillsclasses

Many of us are looking for a fresh start this New Year. New opportunities for growth and healing are often part of our New Year plans. If abortion is part of your life story, you may have thoughts or feelings with which you’ve struggled. You are not alone. ABORTION GRIEF It is not uncommon for post-abortive women to carry an incredible burden of silence and heartache. Many struggle for years with repressed memories, guilt, shame, and depression. Most women feel they are not allowed to talk about their abortion experience, especially in church. According to a study by LifeWay , published in November of 2015, “Over 40 percent of women who have had an abortion say they were frequent churchgoers at the time they ended their pregnancies and about a half of them say they kept their abortions hidden from church members.” The truth is many women who have had an abortion suffer from symptoms of post-abortion grief and trauma. Most often, neither the medical community nor the church understands abortion as a risk factor in a woman’s physical, spiritual, or emotional health. ABORTION HEALING If you feel you have never completely healed or recovered from an abortion experience or that a past abortion may be affecting your current quality of life, you may be interested in our post-abortive recovery group that is starting January 26th . Our mission is to provide a supportive and confidential environment that facilitates healing and restoration from a past abortion and brings a sense of hope and purpose for the future. The Surrendering the Secret study offers an 8-step biblical healing method modeled by women who have been where you are. This study is led by Katie Bailey, the director of client services from our Kutztown office, and Marie Perry. Both Katie and Marie are trained leaders and have led this class in the past. Marie is a former participant and offers a personal insight to the struggles faced by women who’ve experienced abortion: As Christian women, we may know that Jesus can forgive us, but even while knowing Jesus we can still carry the burden of guilt and shame ourselves. Perhaps you are all too familiar with this struggle… I once was. I asked Christ into my heart, yet I was unaware of how to get past the pain and anguish of a messy past. I knew that Jesus loved me, and that God took my sins and put them as far away from himself as the East is from the West, but deep down inside I was at unrest over what I’d done. Yet, how loving our Father is, that through sisters-in-Christ He was able to show me love to help release me from that burden and move into healing. “ Marie Perry, former class participant Is this a struggle for you as well? Would you seek the opportunity to let another sister help you through it too? If you’re unfamiliar with this study but feel as though God is speaking to you, I’d encourage you to view this Surrendering the Secret trailer: For more information or to sign up, reach out in confidence to Life’s Choices at 610-683-8000 or Katie.lifeschoices@gmail.com . Call Us Today Email Us Today #biblestudy #abortionregret #postabortivecounseling #abortion #postabortive #abortionhealing

Gratitude: “The quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.” There have been many times this year when it has been difficult to show gratitude. For many, 2020 has been a year of illness, isolation, financial struggle and uncertainty. And yet, as we celebrate Thanksgiving and reflect on what we do have to be grateful for, true thankfulness is an attitude of the heart all year round. So, how do we live a life of gratitude even in the valleys of life? Keeping perspective. EVERY DAY IS GIFT It’s important to bring our focus back to the basics. Every day we wake up is a gift from God. No day is guaranteed, and it’s a beautiful thing to be alive. Psalm 118:24 says, “This is the day the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it!” Even on the worst days (or in the worst of years), the gift of life itself is something for which we can be thankful. Each day has its own troubles and its own joys, but God’s mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23). OUR TIMING IS NOT GOD’S TIMING It’s easy to feel out of control, especially in years like 2020. Maybe you’ve experienced an unplanned pregnancy or are working through a complicated relationship. Maybe your budget has been tight in a time of job loss or shortened hours. Whatever the circumstance, you are not alone. God is a very present help in time of trouble (Psalm 46:1). You may not be in control, but you don’t have to be. God’s wisdom is beyond what we can even comprehend, and He’s worth trusting. God tells us in Isaiah 55:8-9, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Through it all, God is with you. As we look back on our lives, He has walked beside us in the deepest valleys and on the darkest days. Even in the moments of grief and sorrow, God’s presence, love and patience is worth an attitude of thankfulness. May we have a heart that thanks God in all seasons of life, and may our gratitude for God’s love extend beyond the Thanksgiving season. If you have questions or would like to discuss, we would love to chat! Contact Life’s Choices today. Happy Thanksgiving! Contact Us #pennsylvania #hamburg #thankfulness #lifeofgratitude #thanksgiving2020 #berkscounty #gratitude #thanksgiving #unplannedpregnancy

“My parents are going to kill me.” This is a common reaction from a teen or young adult who has just found out she’s pregnant. Sharing the news of an unplanned pregnancy with parents can be daunting and difficult. Depending upon what she feels your goals and expectations are for her, your daughter may be terrified to approach you. So, if she comes to you in tears, with the news she is pregnant, you can be proud that you have raised a courageous young woman. Realistically, though, it’s more likely that other, less positive emotions are flooding your heart and mind — especially if the circumstances surrounding the pregnancy are less than ideal. Shock, anger, disappointment and humiliation are all common reactions to discovering your son or daughter is going to be a parent sooner than you had hoped or expected. But be assured that you are not the first parents to face this situation. You’re going to get through this one step at a time. Here are some steps to help you move forward. STEP ONE: DON’T OVERREACT Don’t jeopardize your future relationship by saying things you will later regret. If you’ve already blown it, you can still go back and assure her of your love. Avoid blaming or having a condemning attitude. Put yourself in her shoes and try to understand her fears. Trust God’s ability to bring beauty out of brokenness. He specializes in this! Here are some words she needs to hear you say , from the booklet She’s Pregnant, Now What published by Focus on the Family[i]: “I’ll always love you. No matter what.” “We’re here for you and will help you in whatever way we can.” “It’s not what we planned, but it will be okay.” “We will get through this together.” STEP TWO: HELPING HER PROCESS HER NEXT STEPS Here are a few ways to be a support to your daughter: Affirm your confidence in her. Help her make a pros/cons list of her options. Encourage her to make rational, thoughtful decisions. Avoid saying, “We’ll support you whatever you decide.” This could make her feel she’s alone in the process. Share things that you’ve learned from your own life experiences. If your daughter is not ready to be a parent, Life’s Choices can provide information about her options as she processes this very important decision. We have information about any option she is considering whether it be parenting, adoption or abortion. We do not provide or refer for abortions, however we have factual information so she can make an informed decision. Please contact us if we can help in this way . STEP THREE: SHARING THE NEWS It’s okay to be happy about a new baby coming! You may disapprove of your daughter’s actions that led to the pregnancy, but being pregnant is not a sin. It’s okay to celebrate it! Throw her a baby shower. Be supportive even while you allow her to experience the realistic consequences of her situation, both joyful and difficult. Remember to focus on what is best for your daughter and not on what others think. You will get a variety of reactions and opinions, and not all will be helpful. Try not to be offended. Be honest about your feelings with trusted friends. There will be many opportunities for growth and character development in both you and your daughter in the coming months. STEP FOUR: FINDING SUPPORT Your daughter is fortunate to have loving family to support her, but she may need more than you can give. Allow her to show responsibility by contacting local agencies to help her provide independently for her child as much as she can. Life’s Choices is here to help. We can offer the following free resources: Free ultrasound to determine gestational age, detect heartbeat and confirm a viable uterine pregnancy 60 day supply of prenatal vitamins Childbirth and breastfeeding classes with trained R.N. instructor Pregnancy and parenting classes one-on-one either in the office or virtually Opportunity to earn free baby supplies including diapers, wipes, clothing and a brand new car seat. “Earn While You Learn” classes are available throughout pregnancy, as baby grows into toddlerhood and beyond. Referrals to other resources like medical assistance, food pantries, etc. STEP FIVE: CELEBRATE THE POSITIVE THINGS A new life has begun! The timing might not be the way you would have chosen it, but every life created is a gift from the gracious heart of God. This baby – your grandchild – was created for a purpose. Celebrate your grandbaby! You might not feel ready. In fact, you might feel much too young to be a grandparent. The truth is, Nanas and PopPops seem to be much younger and cooler looking than they used to be. Being a grandparent is an experience like none other, and you are going to discover a new kind of love you never knew existed. Don’t rob yourself of the joy by clinging to your disapproval. Now, you are going to have a new, common bond with your daughter – being a parent. Your relationship will change as your daughter becomes a mother. She’ll understand you better, and you can be a mentor and model to her. She’s going to grow up fast, and you will need to allow her the space to do that. Be supportive, but resist the urge to step in and take over. Whatever lies ahead for you and your daughter, we’d love to walk beside you. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help: Contact Us Today [i] 2009, 2012 Focus on the Family She’s Pregnant, Now What? Written by Holly M. Duncan, M.Ed., LPC #pennsylvania #hamburg #freeultrasounds #covid19pregnancy #freepregnancytest #pregnancytest #stressinpregnancy #daughterispregnant #pregnantstress #pregnancystress #berkscounty #prenataleducation #coronaviruspregnancy #kutztown #pregnancy

There are some things in life no one can explain unless you’ve experienced it yourself. And there are some decisions only you can make, even though you respect the opinions of those close to you. The intense emotions that a woman experiences through pregnancy and birth are some of those times. Jordan, a previous client of Life’s Choices, would be the first to tell you that becoming pregnant was not part of her plan. But this is what she had to say about her feelings after meeting her newborn son: “…That’s the part no one can explain; that pre-baby/post-baby transition. You have to experience it for yourself to truly understand the change in perspective; the newfound love you receive when they first place your baby on your chest.” This unexplainable “pre-baby/post-baby transition” is the reason no one but you can make a decision about your pregnancy. If becoming pregnant was unplanned and seemingly untimely, those close to you like your parents, friends or the baby’s father may pressure you into having an abortion. But if you are feeling any kind of uncertainty, even if you can’t fully explain it, that is a reason to take your time and become fully informed before terminating your pregnancy . See previous blog for things you should know about abortion . Abortion is a major decision with physical and psychological consequences. Because of this there are laws to protect you from someone pressuring you into making that choice. The following is an excerpt from a publication of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania: ABORTION: MAKING A DECISION It is not legal for anyone to make a woman have an abortion against her will. It is not legal for any doctor to perform an abortion on a woman without her informed consent, which means that >> the woman has a private medical discussion with the doctor and is given information about the procedure >> all the questions she may have are answered >> t he doctor talks with her about other options before she agrees to have an abortion. If the doctor performs the abortion without first obtaining her informed consent, the woman can sue the doctor in court and she may be awarded money. The father of a child is responsible by law to help support that child, even if the father has said he wanted the woman to have an abortion. The law lets adoptive parents pay costs for care during pregnancy, childbirth and costs for care of the newborn baby. WHAT TO DO IF YOU’RE NOT SURE What if you’re feeling pressure to abort, but you’re not sure? How can you defend your choice if you can’t fully explain it yourself? Many women contemplating abortion feel an internal conflict that is hard to express. Understanding that tension can be helpful. In 2011, an organization called The Vitae Foundation funded research by the Right Brained Group to study this internal conflict in abortion vulnerable women. An analysis of the research revealed that there are three primary tensions that these women experience : (1) 1. My Life vs. the Baby’s Life The Conflict : This tension is usually experienced by someone who is focused on accomplishing educational or career goals. She feels like she has to choose between sacrificing the goals she has for her life or sacrificing the life of her baby. The Reality : In reality, many women whose life is interrupted by an unplanned pregnancy go on to accomplish great things. There are many resources available for pregnant students and working, single moms: Assistance for pregnant students Assistance for single, working moms A pregnancy, whether planned or unplanned, may result in taking some time off from pursuing your career goals and dreams for a few months or a few years, but it’s entirely possible to raise a family and experience a successful life . Furthermore, the path to a fulfilling life is rarely a direct route. You will most likely find that life takes many unexpected twists and turns that eventually lead you to a better place than you could ever have imagined. 2. Bad Life vs. Good Life The Conflict: The woman who experiences this conflict is often one who is struggling with financial or emotional difficulties or has several other children and is already feeling overwhelmed. She feels that by having a baby she will be giving up the hope of ever having a good life and is destined for a life of hardship. In addition, she may feel like it’s not fair to her child to be unable to provide what she considers to be the good things in life. The Reality: The truth is that children do not need and often don’t have a desire for many of the things we consider to be essentials. Basic needs like shelter, food and clothing, of course, need to be provided, but they can be very simple for a child to have a happy and carefree life. Love and security are the most important things you can give your child. In fact, many adults who were raised in near poverty situations express that they never realized they were poor, as a child. Again, there are many programs and resources to assist those that are struggling to make ends meet. Conversely, many wealthy families struggle to be happy and content, emphasizing the fact that it is not an abundance of money that indicates true wealth. Resource index for assistance in meeting basic needs . 3. Shame vs. Guilt The Conflict : The woman experiencing this tension feels that it is better to suffer the private guilt of abortion than public shame of an unwed pregnancy. It is often someone who was raised in a religious home with high moral standards or who feels that pregnancy outside of marriage is a shameful thing. She may be concerned her parents will be angry or that her reputation in her church or other community will be ruined. The Reality : Most parents, even if they are initially disappointed and upset, are able to come to a place of acceptance and grace for their pregnant daughter. After all, the baby is their grandchild! The reaction by family members is rarely as bad as you anticipate and over time they rally around and celebrate the coming baby. If your family is unable to accept you and your baby, there are likely deeper issues involved that would come out eventually in another time of crisis. Any rejection you feel from a church family are also indications of an unhealthy situation. True Christianity offers love, grace and forgiveness, and if you feel shamed, we encourage you to find another more welcoming faith community. They do exist! CONTACT US TODAY If you are feeling any of these internal conflicts we would love to talk with you and help you process before choosing abortion. Most importantly, don’t allow someone to pressure you into making a decision you might later regret. Contact us today to set up an appointment. We are here for you. Contact Us References : (1) The Three Tensions, published by CompassCare Pregnancy Services, https://www.ccoptimize.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Three-Tensions-White-Paper-04-18-18.pdf #abortioninformation #pennsylvania #STDtestingbeforeabortion #hamburg #freeultrasounds #confirmationultrasound #abortionpressure #berkscounty #abortionstress #abortion #freeresources #kutztown #ultrasounds #pregnancy

“Abortion is a major decision with emotional and psychological consequences. If you’re considering this procedure, make sure you understand what it entails, side effects, possible risks, complications and alternatives.” -Mayo Clinic Overview to Medical Abortion If you are considering abortion, you are in a position where all your options are hard ones. You may feel in a panic to end the pregnancy, but it’s important not to rush your decision. Take a deep breath. You have time to make an informed decision. Here are some questions to ask before ending your pregnancy: 1. AM I REALLY PREGNANT? Pregnancy tests are not always accurate. An ultrasound can confirm the pregnancy, determine the gestational age and detect a heartbeat. According to the Mayo Clinic , about 10 to 20 percent of known pregnancies end in natural miscarriage. An ultrasound will confirm that the pregnancy is a viable uterine pregnancy (able to grow and result in a live birth). At Life’s Choices we offer a free ultrasound to confirm pregnancy. Info: Free Ultrasounds 2. WHAT TYPE OF ABORTION PROCEDURE WILL BE USED? There are non-surgical and surgical methods of abortion. Knowing how long you have been pregnant will help determine which method is used. Non-surgical Abortion Method: Non-surgical, or medical abortions, sometimes called “The Abortion Pill” may be performed up to 15 weeks gestation, measured from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP). A medical abortion involves swallowing a pill or pills and may take several hours or several days for the embryo to be expelled. The process may be started in a doctor’s office and completed at home. You may see the embryo that is expelled. It may involve severe cramping and what seems like a large amount of blood. It’s important that you are prepared for this and know what to look for if complications occur. For more information about a medical abortion, see this description from the Mayo Clinic . Surgical Abortion Method: Surgical methods in the first trimester (first 12 weeks of pregnancy) are different than in the second trimester (fourth, fifth and sixth months of pregnancy). Note that abortions in Pennsylvania are not allowed after 24 weeks LMP. Surgical abortion involves inserting instruments into the uterus to remove the developing baby (fetus). For more detailed description of a surgical abortion see this article from the American Pregnancy Association . 3. DO I UNDERSTAND THE POTENTIAL RISKS? Every medical procedure carries the risk of complications. Non-surgical abortions carry the risk of infection, bleeding, sepsis (blood infection) and aspiration pneumonia (breathing vomit into the lungs). A surgical abortion in the first trimester is considered minor surgery. In a small number of cases the womb may not be completely emptied, an infection could occur or instruments may tear a hole in the womb. Similar complications may occur in a second trimester surgical abortion, however the later you are in the pregnancy, the greater the risk of complications. (Please see the full list of potential abortion risks here) 4. WILL I FEEL PAIN? Ask the abortion provider what pain relief options are available for the abortion procedure that is being used and what the cost will be. Local anesthesia is commonly used, however in some cases sedation or general anesthesia may be an option. 5. WHAT CAN I EXPECT TO FEEL EMOTIONALLY AFTER THE ABORTION? Each person responds differently and may include a combination of positive and negative feelings ranging anywhere from relief to regret. Some women may feel empty or have a sense of guilt. At Life’s Choices we have trained representatives who can give you information to make an informed decision. 6. HAVE I BEEN TESTED? It’s important that you do not have a sexually transmitted infection (STI) before an abortion procedure. Any surgical procedure can be complicated by infection. Having an STI at the time of your abortion could cause the infection to travel through the reproductive organs. If this occurs and is left untreated it could result in Pelvic Inflammatory Disease. Many people do not know they have an STI because often there are no symptoms. At Life’s Choices we offer free testing and treatment for gonorrhea and chlamydia, two of the most common STIs. We discuss more about why it’s important to get a reproductive screening before having an abortion in this blog post . 7. HAVE I CONSIDERED ALTERNATIVES TO ABORTION? Many women who initially considered abortion ultimately found delight in having a child, even though the timing or circumstances were not ideal. The human spirit is amazingly strong and resilient, and a person can adapt well to many things in life that did not go as planned. If parenting is not an option but you do not want to end the pregnancy, adoption is something to consider. Adoption could be the bravest, most unselfish thing you do in your life. Life’s Choices has an extensive amount of resources and referrals for support if you choose to parent your baby or if you choose to pursue adoption. 8. IS SOMEONE PRESSURING ME TO HAVE AN ABORTION? Only you can make this decision since you are the one who will need to live with the consequences of your choice. While you may respect the opinion of your parents or the father of the baby, no one can force you to have an abortion against your will. It is illegal for a doctor to perform an abortion without your informed consent. You can find more information about your legal rights in this online booklet listed under “additional resources” below. It is an excellent resource published by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. WE’RE HERE FOR YOU If you are considering abortion, we would love to talk with you to help you process this decision. Contact us today. A caring, non-judgmental representative will help you navigate the choices ahead of you. Contact Us Additional Resources: “ Abortion: Making a Decision ,” Pennsylvania Department of Health #abortioninformation #stdtesting #pennsylvania #STDtestingbeforeabortion #hamburg #freeultrasounds #confirmationultrasound #berkscounty #abortion #freeresources #kutztown #ultrasounds #pregnancy

It’s not unusual for a woman to contact our office asking a key question: “Am I pregnant?” The signs of pregnancy can vary from woman to woman, especially in early stages, and well-meant advice from family and friends can add to the confusion. So here is a quick review of some early signs of pregnancy, as well as some ideas of how Life’s Choices can help you confirm a potential pregnancy. AM I PREGNANT? A missed menstrual period is often the biggest and most familiar hallmark of early pregnancy. What complicates this “sign” is that no woman’s period is perfectly regular and her cycle can be disrupted by changes in health, birth control or other medications, an increase in stress or other factors. Some women do not experience regular periods at any time, making a “missed period” hard to spot. However, a missed period is a good place to start when considering if you could be pregnant. What are some other early symptoms? They can include feeling nauseous or even throwing up (and not just in the morning!), breast tenderness, increased need to urinate, feeling more tired than normal and unusual mood swings. Sound familiar? That’s because these symptoms can also be signs of an impending period. TAKE THE TEST The best way to find out if you are pregnant is to start with a pregnancy test, which involves a simple trip to the bathroom and testing your urine. These tests look for hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), a hormone that is present in higher amounts when you become pregnant. HCG is usually detectable as soon as four days before your expected period. The test we use in our office is 99 percent accurate when taken the first day of your expected period. In fact, coming to our office for a pregnancy test is a great idea! We make sure our tests are in date and stored at an appropriate temperature (to increase accuracy) and the test will be performed by a trained client rep. Free Pregnancy Tests CONFIRM WITH AN ULTRASOUND What surprises some clients is that a pregnancy test, while a reliable indicator of pregnancy, is not considered verified proof of pregnancy. But no worries, we can help with that by performing a confirmation ultrasound at or after six weeks since your last menstrual period (LMP). This is the point in time that our technician can determine an embryo in the uterus, detect a beating heart and also give an estimated date of pregnancy. All of these factors are important as a woman plans what to do next with the news of a pregnancy, whether planned or unexpected. By coming to our office to confirm a pregnancy, women not only get a solid confirmation of the pregnancy but also find an empathetic, professional person to talk over next steps with them. Free Confirmation Ultrasounds SO … ARE YOU PREGNANT? Not sure if you are pregnant? Contact our office for a pregnancy test appointment. We offer two options currently: coming to our Kutztown or Hamburg office for an in-person test, or arranging to pick up a take-home test packet. Either way, once the result of the test is available, we can help you decide what’s next on your pregnancy journey. Let us know how we can help you or someone you know answer the question, “Am I pregnant?” Schedule a (completely free) appointment with us today to confirm your pregnancy. Depending on what you need, we would love to provide you with a free pregnancy test, confirmation ultrasound or another one of our resources. We’re continuing to take necessary precautions and abide by guidelines for the safety of you and our staff. At this time, we ask that you set up an appointment before coming in. Thank you! Contact Us Today **1. Herschorn, Sender. “Female pelvic floor anatomy: the pelvic floor, supporting structures, and pelvic organs.” Reviews in urology 6.Suppl 5 (2004): S2. 2. Huseynov, Alik, et al. “Developmental evidence for obstetric adaptation of the human female pelvis.” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 113.19 (2016): 5227-5232. 3. Dr. Eric Hazelrigg, OB/GYN, Oral Interview, 4/11/19 4. Napso, Tina et al. “The Role of Placental Hormones in Mediating Maternal Adaptations to Support Pregnancy and Lactation” Frontiers in physiology vol. 9 1091. 17 Aug. 2018, doi:10.3389/fphys.2018.01091 #pennsylvania #hamburg #freeultrasounds #fetaldevelopment #freepregnancytest #pregnancytest #berkscounty #prenataleducation #prenatalclasses #freeresources #kutztown #parentingclasses #sonograms #ultrasounds #pregnancy