Choosing between pregnancy options (abortion, adoption, or parenting) is a challenging and overwhelming process for many women. If you’re taking the time to learn about all your possible avenues while considering this important decision, you’re on the right track! However, you may be wondering what steps should be taken to protect your health (and the health of your pregnancy) in the meantime. Seeking prenatal care as soon as possible is your best approach.
Avenue Women’s Center is a limited medical clinic offering early pregnancy services at six locations in Chicagoland, Illinois. If you’re going through an unexpected pregnancy, we’re a great first stop on the road to making an informed pregnancy decision without regrets!
Call, text, chat, or email to schedule a no-cost pregnancy consultation today!
What is Prenatal Care?
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) defines prenatal care as “a program of care for a pregnant woman” prior to the birth.
Why is Prenatal Care Essential?
It’s important to schedule a checkup early on in your pregnancy, regardless of which pregnancy option you’re leaning toward. Once your pregnancy has been confirmed, a medical professional is likely going to recommend an ultrasound. There are several reasons for this. An ultrasound can date the pregnancy, provide clarification around which options you’re eligible for, and detect risks like ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy located outside the uterus). Ectopic pregnancy is a condition that would require immediate medical attention. So, learning about your pregnancy through an ultrasound is a great way to safeguard your own health. The body undergoes a lot of changes during pregnancy, and every woman’s situation is unique! Your pregnancy needs may be different than someone else’s based on age, physical health, lifestyle choices, medications, and other factors. That’s why it’s so important to speak with a qualified professional about your pregnancy.
What Does Prenatal Care Involve?
The specifics will be determined by your doctor, but prenatal care usually involves going to checkups and taking a prenatal vitamin. You can begin this process even if you haven’t made a pregnancy decision yet. Prenatal vitamins contain folic acid, which helps prevent birth defects. So, it’s important to seek prenatal care to protect the health of the pregnancy in case you choose adoption or parenting. Speak with your doctor about prescription and over-the-counter medications you’re taking to find out whether or not they’re safe for continued use. Substances like alcohol, nicotine, and certain other drugs should be avoided during pregnancy.
What Role Might a First-Step Service Provider Play?
Avenue Women’s Center is a limited medical clinic, offering early pregnancy services that are especially important during the decision-making process. Ongoing prenatal care is not among the services we provide. However, we do offer many vital services that help in understanding your pregnancy, maintaining your health, and making a pregnancy decision with confidence.
- Information on accessing free/affordable health care during pregnancy and beyond
- Information on financial services
- Lab-quality pregnancy tests
- Limited medical ultrasounds
- Options consultations
- And much more!
Your safety and well-being are essential! That’s why Avenue Women’s Center is passionate about helping women access accurate information and helpful resources to support their health during an unexpected pregnancy. We’ve been a trusted presence in our Chicagoland community for over forty years! We’d love to play a supportive role in your pregnancy journey today.
Schedule an appointment online or at one of our locations in Darien, Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn / Lombard, Naperville, West Chicago, or Wood Dale, Illinois!
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Reference:
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2021, September). Pregnancy Choices: Raising the Baby, Adoption, and Abortion (FAQs). Retrieved from: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/pregnancy-choices-raising-the-baby-adoption-and-abortion
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.