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The fact that you are searching for ways to support your friend experiencing an unexpected pregnancy online shows that you care. We want to offer some advice as your friend is facing a rollercoaster of emotions right now. Communicating that you are there for her is one of the greatest ways to show your support.

Here are more tips when navigating this unexpected time with a friend.

Have a Listening Ear

After hearing the news of pregnancy from your friend, you may feel like you want to respond with something comforting right away. While that can be tempting, try your best to listen and ask questions about her unique situation before chiming in.

Feel the situation and her body language to see if she’s ready to talk more or if she simply just wants to express how she’s feeling. Listening is more important than anything.

If she does ask for your input, encourage her to the best of your ability. If she has pregnancy questions or questions about her options, direct her to a pregnancy center like ours, where she can explore all her options in a non-judgmental environment.

Go the Extra Mile

You know your friend best, and you know her favorite things. Cheer her up during this stressful time with kind gestures and things she loves. Maybe she loves dinner, movie nights, or a park walk with her favorite latte. Here are some more ideas:

• Bring her flowers and dinner
• Make her a spa basket
• Pick up her groceries/essentials for her
• Spend quality time with her

Free Pregnancy Support

After spending some much-needed time with your friend facing an unexpected pregnancy, encourage her to find the support she needs.

No matter what pregnancy options she is considering, we’re here to walk alongside her and offer free resources, counseling, and practical support.

She can reach out to us to begin pregnancy confirmation and discuss the options available to her. She can schedule a free and confidential appointment with us today.

*Gianna’s House provides a safe environment with a warm, comfortable setting where privacy and confidentiality are top priorities. We offer a holistic approach to helping women. Our services are available at no cost to you because we are a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit organization. This facility is not a licensed medical facility. We do not offer, recommend, or refer for abortions or abortifacients; therefore, we receive no financial gain from your decision. We are committed to providing accurate information about pregnancy options, abortion procedure risks and alternatives, and post-abortion support. All of our advertising and communications are truthful, honest, and accurately describe the services we offer.

Abortion can affect women in a variety of ways, including long-term physical effects. Some risks of abortion may require medical attention after the procedure. Here is more information about the major medical risks of abortion and what to expect if you’re considering this option.

Physical Risks of Medical Abortion

Two drugs involved in a medical abortion, also known as the abortion pill, are mifepristone and misoprostol. These drugs work to terminate an existing pregnancy. Some common physical risks of this type of abortion procedure include:

• Incomplete abortion, which could lead to infection if not treated

• Continued pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work

• Heavy and prolonged bleeding

• Infection

• Fever

• Digestive system discomfort

Risks of Surgical Abortion

Surgical abortion works to dilate your cervix and incorporates vacuum aspiration as well as surgical tools to remove the pregnancy from the uterus.

The most common type of surgical abortion procedure is called dilation and curettage (D&C). Some common risks and complications of this surgical abortion include:

• Perforation of the uterus

• Damage to the cervix

• Scar tissue on the uterine wall

• Infection

Previous Health Concerns

An abortion procedure calls for certainty about your unique risks before any procedure. If you have previous health concerns, be sure to talk to your medical professional about your eligibility for abortion and any other risks concerning your current health conditions.

The Mayo Clinic states that medical abortion is NOT an option for you if you:

• Are further than ten weeks along in your pregnancy

• Have an intrauterine device (IUD) currently in place

• Have a suspected pregnancy outside of the uterus, known as an ectopic pregnancy.

• Have certain medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders, certain heart or blood vessel diseases, severe liver, kidney, or lung disease, or an uncontrolled seizure disorder

• Take a blood thinner or certain steroid medicines

• Can’t make follow-up visits to your provider or don’t have access to emergency care

• Have an allergy to the drugs used

Be Sure of Your Pregnancy Details

To begin getting clarity about your pregnancy, we offer free, self-administered pregnancy tests. We are committed to providing accurate information about pregnancy options, abortion procedure risks and alternatives, and more.

Schedule a free appointment today to discuss your pregnancy with our compassionate team. We’re here to listen and help you find answers. You are not alone.

It has been determined by experts that abortion can cause mental health issues for at least some women. The study concluded that abortion can cause grief, a sense of loss, and anxiety, among other adverse mental health effects. Find out more about the mental health effects of abortion and who is most likely to be affected.

What Does the Research Say?

One study published by the National Library of Medicine concluded four issues when it comes to abortion and mental health. Their findings include the following:

• Abortion is consistently associated with elevated rates of mental illness compared to women without a history of abortion.
• The abortion experience directly contributes to mental health problems for at least some women.
• There are risk factors, such as pre-existing mental illness, that identify women at greatest risk of mental health problems after an abortion.
• It’s difficult to conduct adequate research.

Other studies concluded that women suffer from other mental health conditions after an abortion, such as:

• Relationship problems
• Substance misuse
• Depression
• Suicidal thoughts
• PTSD

Why Is It Difficult to Research?

Women get abortions for various reasons. However, many women feel pressured into having an abortion, which affects their mental health.

Most women report feeling immediate relief following their abortions but struggle mentally weeks, months, or years later. No one can pinpoint when the feelings begin.

Other factors that make it difficult to study are how far along a woman is in her pregnancy when she has an abortion or if she has support in her decision. Moral beliefs also play a role.

Will I Struggle Mentally?

Only you can determine your mental health at the time of an abortion. Before a procedure, it is recommended that you do the following:

• Meet with your healthcare provider to discuss your physical and mental health.
• Confirm your pregnancy with a physical exam.
• Have an ultrasound to determine how far along you are, the pregnancy’s location, and if it is viable (growing with a detectable heartbeat).
• Do blood and urine tests.
• Learn about the procedures, side effects, and potential risks.

How Can Gianna’s House Assist Me?

Gianna’s House does not perform or refer for abortion, but we can provide information regarding abortion procedures, side effects, and potential risks. If you are wondering if you are pregnant, we offer a free self-administered pregnancy test.

To determine your options, we can discuss your three choices and find what’s best for you. If you have already experienced an abortion and need emotional support, we are here to help you.

Contact us or set up an appointment online. Our services are free, and we’re ready to assist you!

Gianna’s House provides a safe environment with a warm, comfortable setting where privacy and confidentiality are top priorities. We offer a holistic approach to helping women. Our services are available at no cost to you because we are a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit organization. This facility is not a licensed medical facility. We do not offer, recommend or refer for abortions or abortifacients; therefore, we receive no financial gain from your decision. We are committed to provide accurate information about pregnancy options, abortion procedure risks and alternatives, and post-abortion support. All of our advertising and communications are truthful, honest, and accurately describe the services we offer.

It’s essential to trust your gut when considering your pregnancy options. If you are leaning away from abortion, consider exploring adoption and parenting in a compassionate and empowering space like Gianna’s House.

We’re here to educate you about the ups and downs of each option and offer our free resources and support. There is hope when it comes to your pregnancy and your future.

Have You Considered Adoption?

Adoption has dramatically improved over the years, allowing the birth mother to choose from open, closed, or semi-open adoption plans. Each plan differs based on the relationship and contact you desire with the adoptive family and your child, if any.

We know choosing a family can be the hardest part, but there is a process in place to screen adoptive families, their backgrounds, and their lifestyles so you can choose one that best fits the life you want for your child.

Free Adoption Information & Referrals

Adoption can sometimes be confusing, so we offer free adoption support and referrals. We have a great network of credible and professional adoption agencies in the area to which we can refer you. In addition to this, we also provide free adoption educational resources.

Thinking of Parenting?

Parenting comes with a whirlwind of how-tos and what-ifs but also with great love and joy. You don’t have to do it alone. We can help you sort through all the questions and concerns on your mind to see if this option is for you.

Free Parenting Support

We offer free parenting classes designed for new and expecting moms and dads. They are designed to provide the fundamentals of parenting, pregnancy, childbirth, child development, parenting skills, and more.

We also connect with other local organizations to provide you with community and financial resources that can guide you into a stable future.

Learn More

Talk to us to learn more about our free education, adoption, and parenting support options. We offer many more free resources.

Schedule an appointment to be sure about your pregnancy options and your future.

*Gianna’s House provides a safe environment with a warm, comfortable setting where privacy and confidentiality are top priorities. We offer a holistic approach to helping women. Our services are available at no cost to you because we are a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit organization. This facility is not a licensed medical facility. We do not offer, recommend, or refer for abortions or abortifacients; therefore, we receive no financial gain from your decision. We are committed to providing accurate information about pregnancy options, abortion procedure risks and alternatives, and post-abortion support. All of our advertising and communications are truthful, honest, and accurately describe the services we offer.

It can be hard to see clearly when faced with such a serious decision as a pregnancy decision. You are not alone.

If you’re asking yourself whether abortion or adoption is right for you, here are some things to consider with each option. Get the clarity you need about your options.

Abortion & What to Consider

Abortion is a medical procedure in which “the embryo or fetus is prematurely removed or caused to be expelled.” There are common physical risks to consider. Depending on the type of procedure, abortion risks may include:

• Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion

• An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work

• Heavy and prolonged bleeding

• Digestive system discomfort

• Infection

• Fever

Some other risks can consist of:

• Injury to the uterine lining or cervix

• Uterine perforation

• Hemorrhaging

A study published by the National Library of Medicine states, “Some women do have significant mental health issues that are caused, triggered, aggravated, or complicated by their abortion experience.”

Abortion can impact women both physically and mentally. Be informed so you can make a clear decision and protect your health.

What About Adoption?

Adoption isn’t without its challenges. You may have many pre-conceived thoughts about adoption and the process, but it has greatly improved over the years.

Birth mothers have three options: open, closed, and semi-open adoption. If you desire a relationship with your child and the adoptive family, an open adoption could work for you. If privacy and distance are best for your situation, a closed adoption is for you.

Speaking with a professional about your adoption options and what might be right for you is essential to getting the clarity you need.

Adoption Information & Referrals

At Gianna’s House, we offer a network of credible and professional adoption agencies in the area to which we can refer you. In addition, we provide free educational resources.

Contact us today to get answers in a safe and non-judgmental environment. We provide free self-administered pregnancy tests, ultrasound referrals, pregnancy counseling, and more.

An unexpected pregnancy may invite questions, especially about your options. You may have heard about abortion and are considering this decision.

Abortion is the only option that terminates a pregnancy. Understanding the different procedures available to you and what you can expect is essential. We’ll outline the methods below.

All About Medical Abortion

The FDA allows the drugs for a medical abortion during the first 70 days of a woman’s pregnancy only. It uses two drugs, mifepristone, and misoprostol, to end the pregnancy. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, which is a hormone that sustains the pregnancy. Misoprostol causes uterine contractions and expels the pregnancy from the uterus.

You may be wondering whether this procedure is painful. Though every woman’s pain tolerance level differs, you can expect to experience abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding after taking the medications. You may also have:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Fever

• Chills

• Diarrhea

• Headache

Though the likelihood of major complications is low, there are risks you should take into account, including:

• Infection

• Fever

• Digestive system discomfort

• Heavy and prolonged bleeding

• An ongoing pregnancy (if the procedure doesn’t work)

• Incomplete abortion, which may require a surgical abortion procedure

If you experience signs of something more serious, such as heavy bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, or a fever lasting more than 24 hours, visit your nearest emergency room immediately.

When is Surgical Abortion Performed?

Surgical abortion is performed later in pregnancy and uses medication, surgical instruments, and/or a suctioning technique to remove the pregnancy. Abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding can result from this procedure, but there are other risks you should know about:

• Infection

• Scar tissue on the uterine wall

• Damage to the cervix

• Perforation of the uterus

Though the likelihood of developing these are rare, it’s essential to be aware of them. You are more likely to develop complications after a surgical abortion if the abortion provider performs the procedure in unsanitary conditions or if you are farther along.

You must do your research before any abortion procedure so that you stay informed.

Before an Abortion

Before making a pregnancy decision, we strongly recommend that you confirm your pregnancy with an obstetric ultrasound and receive options counseling. These services ensure you learn critical details about your pregnancy’s health and receive the information you deserve.

Gianna’s House offers free, self-administered pregnancy testing and pregnancy counseling. Our peer counselors are here to give you the trustworthy, fact-based information you need. Contact us today to learn how we can help you navigate your unexpected pregnancy. There is hope here!

Gianna’s House provides a safe environment with a warm, comfortable setting where privacy and confidentiality are top priorities. We offer a holistic approach to helping women. Our services are available at no cost to you because we are a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit organization. This facility is not a licensed medical facility. We do not offer, recommend or refer for abortions or abortifacients; therefore, we receive no financial gain from your decision. We are committed to providing accurate information about pregnancy options, abortion procedure risks and alternatives, and post-abortion support. All of our advertising and communications are truthful, honest, and accurately describe the services we offer.

If you are considering abortion as an outcome of your unexpected pregnancy, contact Gianna’s House for a free appointment. Find empowerment through the information provided by our experienced staff.

Abortion Information

Our peer counselors are knowledgeable about all your options for the outcome of your pregnancy, including abortion. Did you know that the type of abortion recommended for a woman is based on several factors, including how far along she is, what kind of birth control she uses, and her access to emergency and follow-up care?

It is also wise to learn about the risks associated with abortion procedures and the recovery process. Speaking with our counselors about abortion will give you the information you need to make a confident choice.

Options Information

If you aren’t quite sure which option you want to choose for the outcome of your pregnancy, learn more about your choices through options counseling at Gianna’s house. In addition to discussing abortion with you, we can help you understand parenting and abortion better so you can determine if either is a good fit for your life.

Gianna’s House can also provide you with community assistance and adoption referrals. If you want to consider parenting or adoption but are unaware of the resources in place to assist you, speak with us to get the information you need to make it an option.

A woman shouldn’t feel pressured into an abortion because her circumstances cause her to feel like she has no other choice. This is your life, and this decision is impactful. Gain confidence by learning more about your options.

Talk With Us

Contact Gianna’s House to learn more about our services to support women facing an unexpected pregnancy. Get the information you deserve from our knowledgeable and non-judgmental peer counselors. All appointments are free and confidential.