For Parents

She thinks she might be pregnant!

Whether it is your daughter or your son's girlfriend, the news may not be what you had planned for the future of that child. Most parents we work with are surprised, hurt, angry, concerned, and/or shocked when their child tells them that a pregnancy may have occurred.

The first thing you need to do is take a deep breathe, relax, and call MyLife Medical & Resource Centers. We are here to help everyone involved with an unplanned pregnancy. There is more than one option available and we have lots of resources to help.

Abortion may seem like a quick and easy answer, but it simply brings about many more issues to deal with. Yes, the pregnancy may be over following an abortion but there are so many new issues that may arise.

Please visit our Pregnancy Options page for a discussion about all the options to consider and how MyLife Medical & Resource Centers can help if she chooses to parent or investigate adoption.

We offer Parenting Classes to help our clients become the best parents possible and at the same time, earn "points" for items needed such as diapers, formula, new clothing, baby beds, baby swings, etc.

If she chooses abortion.

First, let's find out if she is pregnant and how far along she is. Contact MyLife Medical & Resource Centers to set up an appointment for a free pregnancy test and ultrasound. Once pregnancy has been verified, we can walk everyone involved through the options that are available for this pregnancy. There is more than one option. And we are here to help.

If abortion still seems the very best decision for this pregnancy, the following is a list of questions that need to be asked at the abortion clinic. It is best not to leave the first abortion clinic appointment until these questions (and any others you think of) are answered fully and completely to your satisfaction.

• What kind of abortion will she have? Will it be chemical or surgical? Ask about the risks. It's important that everyone involved sit through any discussion about the abortion procedures. Most women will appreciate someone who wants to be with them through this difficult time.
• Who is the doctor and what are his/her credentials? Be sure to write down the doctor's name. Don't let her sign any papers that might release that doctor from any liability if he/she hurts her. Both of you read everything very carefully.
• Check to see if the clinic is clean and sanitary. Many clinics are never inspected by governmental agencies. As a result, they can provide sub-standard care to their patients. If the clinic doesn't appear spotless, find another one.
• They should offer an ultrasound. Insist on being allowed to view the screen. Both of you have a right to view any medical tests that are being conducted.
• Should your daughter have any doubts, take her home. There is no rush to make this decision. Any hesitation on her part could mean significant regrets in the future. Always remind her that you support her in the pregnancy and don't want to push her into something she doesn't want to do.
• Accompany her throughout the clinic. Should the clinic staff seek to isolate you from your daughter be immediately suspicious and ask her to leave with you for the time being. She needs you now more than ever and she also needs someone to ensure that she isn't hurt in any way. Whatever the clinic rules are, there is no reason you cannot hold her hand through this procedure.

Remember that abortion does not erase a mistake it only adds new ones. Abortion is PERMANENT. There is no "undoing" this decision. Come into one of our offices so we can discuss all of the options available.

Post Abortion Stress Syndrome

If she chooses abortion or has already participated in an abortion, be prepared for "Post Abortion Stress Syndrome" (PAS). One or more of the following problems could be experienced by anyone involved in that abortion decision. Men hurt from abortion decisions, too. If you see any signs of any of the following, please seek professional counseling. Do not allow these issues to begin ruling anyone's life.

• Fear of failure
• Fear of being judged
• Fear of making decisions
• Fear of taking risks
• Feeling of defeat
• Feeling unworthy
• Depression
• Guilt
• Shame
• Panic attacks
• Addictions
• Suicidal thoughts
• Difficulty with relationships
• Inability to bond with other children
• Sexual dysfunctions
• Sense of loss
• Sleeplessness, bad dreams, nightmares
• Eating disorders
• And perhaps many other symptoms

If you or anyone you know is experiencing any of the above symptoms, please understand that you are not alone and help is available. Contact MyLife Medical & Resource Centers to find out more.

STDs and abortion

Having an STD during an abortion can cause serious problems for the patient. Be sure that she has been tested for STDs before the abortion. We offer free & low cost STD testing at MyLife Medical & Resource Centers. Contact us today for more information.