Three Things To Know Before You Make A Decision

Am I really pregnant? We know that an unplanned pregnancy can create a lot of questions with no easy answers. Understanding the facts and your options is important. The best way to confirm your pregnancy is to have a medical quality pregnancy test. We can provide one and you will have the results during your appointment at the Valley Pregnancy Center (VPC).

Is it a viable pregnancy?
A confidential ultrasound exam will confirm if you have a healthy pregnancy (baby is likely to live). The information gained is important whether you are considering abortion or continuing your pregnancy.

Do I have an Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)?
It is important to know if you have a sexually transmitted infection (STI) if you are considering abortion. Having an abortion with an untreated STI (Link to text below) could cause an increased risk for the mother. Testing for the existence of an STI is important before an abortion is performed. The VPC offers STI testing if your pregnancy test is positive. To learn more about the risk of an untreated STI click here.

Untreated STI
If you have an untreated STI, there is an increased risk with abortion. During an abortion the instruments used must pass through the vagina, through the opened cervix and into the uterus (the cervix is usually closed and provides a barrier to the uterus, preventing infections from entering the uterus easily). This means the instruments carry the infection into the uterus where, if untreated, could cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID may result in scaring of the uterus and fallopian tubes, greater risk of ectopic (tubal) pregnancy and infertility. PID may cause only minor signs and symptoms or none at all. Chlamydia commonly lacks signs of infection. PID is a serious infection and requires immediate treatment. Call or come to the VPC to learn more about abortion procedures and risks.