Search Results

One of my favorite fun holiday movies is Chevy Chase’s Christmas Vacation . I don’t like to admit it, but I’m a lot like his character, Clark Griswold. I want more than anything to have a perfect Christmas with my loved ones, but no matter how I try to orchestrate it, things always run amuck. Can you relate? Between hosting meals (how long does it take to took a turkey again?) to making sure the house gets (and stays!) clean for guests, to finding, hiding (remembering where I hid them), wrapping and presenting the perfect gifts, it can be so stressful! Add COVID-19 to the mix, and we are gearing up for a very stressful Christmas. Or are we? CHRISTMAS CHAOS A few years ago, I was in full-on “perfect Christmas, high-stress mode” when disaster struck. OK, not a real disaster, but it felt like it. I was laid low with an exhausting virus, one of my doctors thought was the flu and warned it could take me out of commission for two weeks. This was just a few days before Christmas, and my calendar was packed with work parties, church events, hosting one side of our family on Christmas day and visiting the other out of state the following week. I lay in bed, miserable and achy and sure the holiday was ruined. Instead of resting, I was stressing about how I could salvage the holiday. I begged God to make me better and to do it quickly. Prayer is a mysterious thing, and God himself works in ways we don’t always expect. Instead of immediate healing, he sent people to help and remind me of what was important. My husband took over my necessary duties while still handling his own very busy week with grace and kindness. My kids made me sweet get-well cards and did their best to play quietly and help. My family offered their own prayers and support and were quite willing to change their Christmas plans. And even though I still felt miserable, my heart moved from stressed-out to peace-filled. (In the end, it wasn’t the flu, just a nasty virus. I took it easy, enjoyed a scaled back holiday, and realized we all enjoyed the day more when I wasn’t Clark Griswolding it). HANDLING THE STRESS Medicinenet.com lists some top reasons for holiday stress in non-pandemic times . They include: Fatigue Unrealistic expectations Over commercialization Financial stress Inability to be with family or friends Sadness An inability to cope with difficulties the holidays bring out I know that COVID has caused a huge shift in our life today. It’s stressful to handle all the rules and expectations about masks and cleaning and visiting out of state. It’s scary to think of contracting the virus yourself or inadvertently carrying it to grandma’s house. Add this to regular holidays stress, and it’s a lot to handle! There are, of course, common sense ways to manage these stressors. First, you must take care of yourself. Get regular sleep and drink lots of water. While it’s ok to splurge on a favorite treat, make sure most of your meals are healthy. Practice taking deep, calming breaths when you feel overwhelmed. And focus on spending time with people you love and who love you back. Next, figure out a common-sense budget. This year has been a challenge, but it’s also been a year to try new things. So let 2020 be the year you change how you give gifts (and how many you give). Scale back your plans and expenses for meals, and resolve to enjoy the simple solutions that result. Check out our previous blog post for tips on how to celebrate Christmas on a budget. Finally, find ways to connect with loved ones. Instead of a big gathering with your friends, go caroling outside, social distance style. If you can’t host a meal, use video chat programs to connect safely, and make plans to get together down the road. And with the people you see regularly, resolve to sidestep distracting activities, and enjoy things like conversations, simple meals and the like. REMEMBER WHAT IT’S ALL ABOUT Even though I struggle with Christmas stress myself, it boggles my mind that we get so wrapped up in the trimmings of a holiday that began in such a humble way. Over two thousand years ago, a young couple traveled to a distant town due to a government demand to do a census. When they arrived, they could not find or afford a place to stay and ended up sleeping on a barn floor. To top things off, she was pregnant and gave birth that night surrounded by farm animals. Their guests? Friendly but smelly shepherds they had never met. Perfect and stress free? No. But this imperfect event was, in the end, perfectly orchestrated to welcome God’s best gift to our world: Jesus. It’s my hope that you will be able to focus on Jesus as your source of peace this holiday season. Step away from the stress when you can, find joy in the simple pleasures of the time and remember to thank God for the best gifts, which don’t require wrapping paper or stress. “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows .” James 1:17 #christmasplanning #covidchristmasstress #pennsylvania #christmasstress #christmasonabudget #hamburg #berkscounty #budget #familyfun

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

Grief is universal, and we have all felt its effects in some way or another. Overwhelming sadness, anger, and regret are just a few emotions we may have when experiencing a loss. Grief affects our physical bodies, our emotions and inner spiritual life in profound ways. The loss of a loved one, the loss of a job, the onset of a sudden illness, a miscarriage and the loss of safety after a trauma are just a few examples of situations that may bring on the pain of grief. Grief is a natural response to loss . It can take on a life of its own, and it’s important to find healthy ways to work through the different stages of grief so we aren’t locked into unhealthy emotional patterns. There is no right or wrong way to grieve, because it’s an individual experience. What we do know is that the grieving process takes time, and healing is gradual. Ignoring your pain won’t make it go away faster. Being “strong” won’t lessen the emotional impact on your health. In fact, it may make your health worse if you can’t acknowledge the pain you are feeling. There are typically 5 stages to the grief process according to psychiatrists: Denial: “This can’t be happening to me.” Anger: “Why is this happening? Who is to blame?” Bargaining: “Make this not happen, and in return I will _____” Depression: “I’m too sad to do anything.” Acceptance: “I’m at peace with what happened.” However, not everyone goes through every stage, and that’s OK. You don’t have to go through every stage to heal. These are responses many people have, but our grieving is as individual as our lives. It’s important to take care of yourself as you grieve. Facing what you are feeling, expressing those feelings, maintaining your hobbies and interests and looking after your physical health are key components to healing from grief. It’s also important to distinguish between grief and depression . Please contact your family doctor for more information on the differences between them and seek the right treatment plan for your overall well-being. CONTACT US If you are experiencing grief for any reason, be kind to yourself and seek out a trusted friend who you can lean on for support, a local grief group to share your sorrow, or a counselor to help you sort through the big emotions you may be feeling. At Life’s Choices, we want to support you in any way we can. Contact us if you need someone to listen, and we’ll provide you with resources to help you on your journey. Contact Us Today Kutztown: 610-683-8000 | Hamburg: 484-660-3526 #fearandanxiety #health #mentalhealth #reduceanxiety #griefcounseling #grievingprocess #coronavirus #grief #anxiety #mentalhealthofchildren #ultrasound #fear #pandemicmentalhealth #covid19

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

Life’s Choices is not an abortion provider, nor do we recommend or refer for abortion. However, if you are considering terminating your pregnancy, we have several services offered free-of-charge for your optimal health and safety prior to an abortion procedure. Life’s Choices can provide you with a reproductive health screening that includes testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and a pregnancy confirmation ultrasound. We recommend these preliminary steps before an abortion for the following reasons: 1. STI TESTING Many young women hope to one day be a parent, even though right now doesn’t seem like the right time. To protect your body for a future pregnancy, it’s important to know if you have an STI. At Life’s Choices we test for chlamydia and gonorrhea, two of the most common STIs. The Center for Disease Control has estimated that one in four sexually active adolescent females has an STD such as chlamydia or HPV. (1) Many don’t know they are infected because STIs often have no symptoms. Untreated STIs can lead to infertility. In fact, the CDC estimates that 24,000 women become infertile each year due to undiagnosed STIs. (2) Additionally, an abortion procedure that is done while infected with an STI increases your risk of contracting Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). (3) One in eight women with Pelvic Inflammatory Disease have difficulty becoming pregnant in the future. (4) Whether you decide to have an abortion or not, being tested for STIs is important for your health and future. We provide confidential testing and treatment free of charge and can usually have your results within one or two days. 2. PREGNANCY CONFIRMATION ULTRASOUND Here are reasons why an ultrasound before an abortion is recommended: To determine a viable uterine pregnancy: A nonviable pregnancy is one that cannot possibly result in a live-born baby, for example if no heartbeat is detected or if the fertilized egg is not attached in the uterus (ectopic pregnancy). Early detection through ultrasound can hasten the appropriate medical response to either an ectopic pregnancy, which can be life threatening, or a natural miscarriage. Either one of these conditions would obviously make an abortion procedure unnecessary. To determine gestational age: Different abortion procedures are available at specific stages of pregnancy. For this reason, it’s important to know how far along you are in the pregnancy. The Reproductive Health Screening is valued at $350 but is provided completely free of charge at Life’s Choices due to generous donations from local individuals, businesses and churches. Life’s Choices does not benefit financially from any decision you make concerning your pregnancy . Our goal is to provide you with the resources and services you need in order to make a fully informed decision. CONTACT US We welcome you to set up a free appointment today, whether for STI/STD testing, an ultrasound or another one of our free services. You can find out more about the services we offer here , or contact us today: Contact Us (1) https://www.cdc.gov/std/stats17/adolescents.htm (2) https://lifeschoicessupport.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Youth-STI-Infographic.pdf (3) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7121913/ (4) https://www.cdc.gov/std/pid/stdfact-pid.htm #stdtesting #pennsylvania #STDtestingbeforeabortion #hamburg #freeultrasounds #berkscounty #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

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are defined as an infection or disease that is transmitted through sexual contact caused by bacteria, viruses and parasites. There is so much to know about STDs, how they are transmitted and who they affect. Here are some common questions people often ask about STDs. (Disclaimer: Some sensitive issues discussed below.) FIVE COMMON QUESTIONS 1. How are STDs transmitted? STDs can be transmitted through vaginal, oral and anal sex.  2. Who do STDs affect? STDs can affect people of all ages. However, STDs do have a higher positivity rate in the younger population. Fifteen to 24-year-olds account for half of the 20 million new cases of STDs that occur in the United States each year, but they only make up about a quarter of the population. Also the CDC suggests that gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men are at a higher risk of getting STDs.  3. Can I get an STD while I’m pregnant? Yes! You can get an STD before and during your pregnancy. The CDC recommends that all women should ask to be tested at their first prenatal visit. It is very common that doctors will automatically offer this, but some of them will not, so it is important for you to ask! If you think you may have been exposed after your first test, please let your doctor know. If you have an STD while pregnant and you do not get treatment, it can lead to serious health problems for you and your baby. You can pass the infection to your baby before, during or after birth. The doctor may also decide to do a cesarean delivery (c-section) to prevent the spread of infection to the baby. 4. Can STDs be spread during oral sex? Yes! There are many STDs and infections that can be spread from oral sex. It may be possible to get some STDs in the mouth or throat. This can happen by giving to oral sex to someone with an infected penis, vagina or anus. It may also be possible to get infected on the penis, vagina or anus by receiving oral sex from someone who has an infection in their mouth. You can also be positive in more than one area (ex: mouth and genitals). It’s important to remember that STDs do not always show symptoms. If you have had oral sex and you are getting tested, be sure to ask your health care provider if they can provide a throat swab as well.  5. What can happen if I leave an STD untreated? If STDs are left untreated it can cause long term pelvic and abdominal pain, infertility and complications with pregnancy and an increased risk of giving or getting HIV. If you know that you’ve been exposed or even if you are unsure of your exposure, it’s important to be tested and receive the proper treatment if you have a positive test. WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT? Knowing your STD status is very important and critical in preventing the spread of disease. If you think you may be infected or at risk, DO NOT have sex until you are tested and treated. The CDC states, “the most reliable way to avoid infection is to not have sex (vaginal, oral and anal). For more information on STDs, you can visit the Center for Disease Control’s website: cdc.gov . To schedule your testing appointment you can call or text our Kutztown office at 610-683-8000 or our Hamburg office at 484-660-3526 . At this time we ask that you make sure to set up an appointment rather than walk in (to abide by current COVID-19 safety standards ). Schedule Your Test #freeSTDtesting #stdtesting #centerfordiseasecontrol #STD #sexuallytransmitteddisease

Whether a negative pregnancy test causes you to feel intense relief or deep disappointment, after the initial emotion wears off you may begin to doubt the accuracy of the test. Is it possible your negative pregnancy test is wrong? If the home test was done properly, it is rare to have a negative result if you truly are pregnant. It is important that you read the directions carefully and follow the times and procedures exactly as indicated. WHY IT COULD BE A FALSE NEGATIVE However, if you have administered the test as directed, here are some reasons why it could show negative if you are indeed pregnant: Test was taken too early. The earlier a test is taken after a missed period the harder it is for the test to detect hCG (the hormone that indicates whether you are pregnant). Some tests may be more sensitive to or need more hCG to be detected in urine to produce a positive test. Ovulation can vary especially if periods are irregular and timing may be off. Repeat test in one week if there is still a concern about being pregnant. Test results were checked too soon. Read instructions carefully and be precise with timing. Using diluted urine. For most accurate results, take the test first thing in the morning when your urine is the most concentrated. WHY YOU MIGHT MISS A PERIOD AND NOT BE PREGNANT There are several reasons that you might miss a period but not be pregnant, including but not limited to: Sudden weight gain or loss Ovarian cysts Metabolic conditions (alterations in blood sugar and certain hormone levels) Recent illness Stress Thyroid conditions Certain birth control methods/medications Pregnancy If you have missed your period and are questioning the results of your home test, we would be happy to administer a test in our office . Our registered nurse on staff can answer your medical questions and make referrals if necessary. Contact Us for a Pregnancy Test GET FREE TESTING FOR STIs/STD s Additionally, if you have not had STI/STD testing in the last year, we strongly recommend that you schedule an appointment to have this done. STI testing is recommended annually, in addition to every time you have a new sexual partner. We provide STI testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea at Life’s Choices and would be happy to schedule an appointment for you. Contact us if you are in need of STI testing, a pregnancy test or if you would like to talk to someone about the results of your test. We are here for you! Contact Us Today #pennsylvania #pregnancydecisions #negativepregnancytest #freeultrasounds #healthypregnancy #pregnancytest #pregnancybodychanges #berkscounty #pregnancytestiswrong #freeresources #kutztown #parentingclasses #falsenegativepregnancytest #ultrasounds #pregnancy

A positive pregnancy test during the best of times causes many different emotions. Feelings of excitement, terror and everything in between are common reactions whether or not the pregnancy was planned. But during this time of heightened fear and anxiety regarding the coronavirus, a positive pregnancy test, especially if unplanned, can cause a woman to panic. You may be wondering if you should continue the pregnancy with all the uncertainties in the world today. Here are some questions you may have: IS MY HEALTH AND MY BABY’S HEALTH MORE AT RISK IF I WOULD DEVELOP THE CORONAVIRUS? The Center for Disease Control has a page dedicated to pregnancy and breastfeeding concerns about COVID-19. Another site with a bit more detailed information is from the UK. To summarize: Pregnant women do not appear to be more at risk than those who are not pregnant for getting seriously unwell if they develop the coronavirus There is no evidence to suggest an increased risk of miscarriage in pregnant women who are infected with the virus It is unlikely the virus would cause problems in the unborn baby’s development Evidence shows that the virus is transferrable from mother to baby during pregnancy or birth. In all reported cases of a newborn baby developing the infection, the baby was well. Pregnant women have been placed in the “more vulnerable” group because generally speaking some viral infections can be worse in pregnant women, something OB doctors have dealt with for years. However, there is no evidence to show that this is true of the coronavirus. WILL I BE ABLE TO PROVIDE FINANCIALLY FOR MY BABY? If you or your partner have recently lost your job, or if you are concerned about the declining economy, you may become fearful of taking care of yourself, much less a new baby. These are valid concerns, and we would love to talk to you about them. Life’s Choices has many resources and referrals to help those with financial difficulties throughout Berks County, Pennsylvania and beyond. Even during this time of social distancing, we are able to provide online support and education with your own personal coach. Our “ Healthy Start Baby Bundle ” provides you with not only valuable information throughout your pregnancy but practical things like prenatal vitamins, diapers, formula and even a brand new car seat for your baby, all free of charge. THE WORLD SEEMS LIKE SUCH A SCARY PLACE RIGHT NOW. DO I WANT TO BRING A CHILD INTO THIS MESS? New moms throughout the ages have had these same thoughts and feelings. Suddenly you are not just thinking about yourself but a new life and future generations. While the thought of caring for a baby can cause anxiety about the future, more often a baby brings hope and joy into the life of his or her family. The human spirit is amazingly strong and resilient and can thrive even through difficult circumstances. At Life’s Choices we have seen many, many lives changed for the better as moms and dads have stepped up to be the best they can be for their child. Whatever you are thinking or feeling right now, we would love to talk with you. A registered nurse on staff can help you find answers to your medical questions. Our client reps and coaches are available to listen, and direct you towards reliable information for any option you are considering whether it be parenting, adoption or abortion. Our resources come from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and other medically accurate sources. Most importantly, since all of our services are free of charge , we do not financially profit in any way from the decision you make. SOME FINAL THOUGHTS: Take a deep breath. You’re going to be okay. Take time to learn the facts and see what help is available. To quote Michelle Obama: “Don’t ever make decisions based on fear. Make decisions based on hope and possibility.” Talk to someone you trust. If you are not ready to talk to your partner or family, or just want an unbiased perspective, we welcome you to give us a call . A test is only a test, it is not a confirmation of pregnancy. Only a doctor can diagnose pregnancy and this is often done through ultrasound. We can offer a confirmation ultrasound to qualifying individuals. Contact us to find out how to receive this free service at Life’s Choices. While many feel isolated during this time of sheltering in place, please know that you are not alone . We are here for you and are ready to help. Please contact us today. You are safe with us. Contact Us Today #fearandanxiety #health #reduceanxiety #covid19pregnancy #coronavirus #anxiety #prenataleducation #ultrasound #coronaviruspregnancy #fear #covid19 #pregnancy #pregnantduringcovid19

Life as we know it has been changing daily since the coronavirus (COVID-19) started hitting the United States (including our community right here in Berks County, Pennsylvania). Businesses and schools are closed, social distancing is the new “normal,” grocery stores are packed and people are hoarding toilet paper. We never saw this coming as we came into 2020, now did we? With all the changes and uncertainty, fear and anxiety seem to be at a whole new level for everyone. Fear and anxiety can affect our daily lifestyle, relationships, and personality, but we can implement healthy coping strategies to help us with the unpredictability our culture is facing. Here are a few ways to reduce anxiety if you are feeling overwhelmed: Do something creative- Whether it’s journaling, painting, drawing, playing an instrument, or writing poetry, creativity reduces stress and allows us to have fun and express ourselves which promotes relaxation. Talk to a friend- Social distancing may be necessary right now, but with technology, we have more options than ever to connect virtually and stay in touch with loved ones. Talk a walk- Use your five senses to orient yourself to your surroundings. What you can see, touch, smell, hear and even taste (make sure it’s healthy and safe!) helps to ground us to the present rather than worrying about the future. Express gratitude for anything and everything you can- Every emotion we have has its own neural pathway in our brains. So, when we are thankful, we actually can’t fuel the anxiety, because the brain is focused on being grateful! Isn’t that an interesting fact? Do some breathing exercises- Something simple to try is to breathe in through your nose for four counts, hold it for seven counts, and then release your breath through your mouth for eight counts. Repeat this cycle a few times and your overall system should begin to relax because more oxygen is getting to your brain. Seek professional counseling if you are contemplating any kind of self-harm or the feeling of anxiety does not subside within a reasonable time period- Some anxiety and fear goes beyond just “the blues,” and talking to a professional is sometimes necessary. If you aren’t sure where to turn, please contact our office by phone, text or email , and we’ll help you get the resources you need.  If you need someone to talk to, we’re here for you. At Life’s Choices, we have resources to share and a listening ear to help support you during this time. We are implementing community support at both of our offices in regards to coping with the anxieties of this particular time. We are providing encouragement cards with Scripture verses available to take from our porch at Kutztown or outside the office at Hamburg. We also invite you to text or call us with any prayer requests ! Kutztown: 610-683-8000 Hamburg: 484-660-3526 We see you, and you aren’t alone. Contact us for support — we’d love to hear from you! Contact Us Today #fearandanxiety #health #reduceanxiety #coronavirus #anxiety #prenataleducation #ultrasound #fear #covid19 #pregnancy