Here at Avenue Women’s Center, we serve women from all different backgrounds and citizenship statuses. If you are undocumented, you may have particular concerns when it comes to facing an unexpected pregnancy. Do you qualify for medical coverage if you plan to carry this pregnancy to term? What happens if you want to pursue having an abortion? Questions such as these can carry a bit more weight if you are concerned about your documentation status.
If you are undocumented and wondering about your next step regarding an unexpected pregnancy, Avenue Women’s Center is here for you. Our services are free for all women, despite their citizenship status or background. A confidential pregnancy consultation can provide you with more information on your options, as well as address any questions or concerns you may have. Call, chat, email or text for an appointment at one of our five DuPage County locations right away.
Undocumented and Considering Parenting
Prenatal care is recommended for everyone who is carrying a pregnancy to term. However, undocumented immigrants are often less likely to receive adequate levels of prenatal care as compared to the general population.* There are many issues at play, but the American Medical Association’s Journal of Ethics states that one of the main factors is structural policy barriers (such as lack of access to affordable healthcare).
In Illinois there are a couple of options for pursuing prenatal care if you are not a citizen of the United States. One helpful program offered through the state is called Moms and Babies. Women can apply for prenatal coverage throughout their pregnancy, as well as coverage for the delivery and up to 60 days following birth.
Another option for obtaining prenatal care is to receive services through a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC). These clinics provide care to anyone, regardless of their citizenship status, insurance coverage, or ability to pay. Look for a FQHC near you here.
Undocumented and Considering Abortion
Perhaps you are interested in an abortion, but you are hesitant about the cost or the documentation required. Before taking any next steps, have you found out more information regarding the pregnancy itself?
Here are some important questions to address before pursuing an abortion:
- What is your risk of miscarriage? Is this pregnancy likely to continue?
- How far along are you?
- Do you qualify for the abortion pill?
- How much does an abortion cost?
- Is the clinic licensed? What sort of after-care do they provide?
- What are the potential risks involved, both physically and emotionally?
There are many centers that provide free or discounted services in order to obtain much of this information, regardless of citizenship status or medical coverage. Pregnancy resource centers are a great place to start. You can address your questions and concerns at little to no cost prior to taking your next step.
Avenue Women’s Center is a limited medical clinic providing free services to every woman of any citizenship status. Confirm your pregnancy with a medical-grade pregnancy test, accurate just 10 days after conception. Address any questions or concerns you may have regarding your pregnancy options in a confidential and private consultation appointment with one of our expert client advocates. No matter what pregnancy option you are planning on, we are here for you. Contact us today for a free appointment at one of our five Chicagoland centers!
References:
- American Medical Association. (2019, January) Why Physicians Should Advocate for Undocumented Immigrants’ Unimpeded Access to Prenatal Care. Retrieved from: https://journalofethics.ama-assn.org/article/why-physicians-should-advocate-undocumented-immigrants-unimpeded-access-prenatal-care/2019-01
- Korinek, K., & Smith, K. R. (2011). Prenatal care among immigrant and racial-ethnic minority women in a new immigrant destination: Exploring the impact of immigrant legal status. Social Science & Medicine, 72(10), 1695-1703. Retrieved from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0277953611002012
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.