WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU ARE A VICTIM OF RAPE OR SEXUAL ASSAULT?

Many people fail to understand the trauma suffered by victims of rape and sexual assault. Sadly, sexual violence affects hundreds of thousands of people in our nation. This article provides sexual assault statistics, essential information, options and resources available to those who have experienced this unique type of trauma. 

YOU ARE NOT ALONE: SEXUAL ASSAULT STATISTICSIf you think you may have been a victim of rape or sexual assault, you are not alone. CDC research estimates that nearly one in five women and one in 38 men have experienced “attempted or completed” rape in their lifetime. 1 Sexual abuse statistics are sobering.The RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) website says 433,648 Americans 12 or older experience sexual assault or rape each year. 2

 

YOUR FEELINGS ARE VALID.

If you are like many people dealing with this issue, you have a lot of questions. Feeling confused or upset is common for victims who have experienced rape, sexual assault or violence. You might be feeling hurt, angry and fearful while struggling to figure out what to do next. Remember that caring for yourself and getting the support you need is critical. Reach out to trusted friends and family members as well as to local resources like Ava Women’s Center.

Confidential Care

Ava Women’s Center can help with local resources

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF IT WAS RAPE OR SEXUAL ASSAULT?

What is sexual assault? Although the legal definition of rape varies from state to state, the WomensLaw.org website defines rape as "forced sexual intercourse.” 3  Their definition of sexual assault is “unwanted sexual contact, often committed by force, including rape.” 4 They clarify that “Force doesn’t always have to be physical force where the perpetrator physically overpowers the victim; force could include psychological coercion.” 3 You might question whether or not you gave consent. 5 However, proper consent is explicit and leaves no room for ambiguity. It is also free of pressure, coercion and threats. 

  • If you said “no,” but they kept going, you did not consent. 

  • If you were asleep or unconscious, you were physically unable to consent. (This includes being drugged or otherwise incapacitated.)

  • If you are a child, you are likely below the legal age of consent in your state. 6

 Many rape and assault victims say they feel a sense of shame or guilt about the incident. However, what happened is not your fault. There is never an excuse for sexual violence or predatory behavior. 

GET THE HELP YOU NEED TODAY.

If you have been raped or assaulted, do not wait to act. It is crucial to reach out for mental, emotional and legal support right away. Below is a list of actions you should take immediately following a traumatic experience like rape or sexual assault: 

  • If you have physical injuries, call 911 and go to an emergency room.

    Otherwise, go to a police station, a friend's home or a local women’s center like Ava Women’s Center where you know you will be protected. Description text goes here

  • Several national hotlines offer support to victims of rape and violence. 7 You can call the National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673). 8

  • Evidence collected in this way will be useful whether or not you decide to report the assault to the police.

Whatever you decide to do, talk to someone and get help as soon as possible. Your community will want to support you. You do not have to face this ordeal alone.

 "Pregnancy centers and medical clinics play a pivotal role in supporting women during times of crisis,” said Anne O’Connor, a legal expert with the National Institute of Family and Life Advocates. 9

“The volunteers and medical personnel at these nonprofits are dedicated to helping women in need. Women should always have a safe haven when they aren't sure where else to turn. That is exactly what pregnancy centers provide in communities across the nation,” added O’Connor.

ASSESS YOUR LEGAL OPTIONS.

After you have addressed your immediate physical, mental and emotional needs, you should evaluate your legal options. Because every situation is different, it is vital to consult a legal expert for advice on your circumstances. While this article is not a substitute for legal counsel, here are some important choices to consider:

  • Depending on where and how rape or sexual assault occurred, you may need to file a complaint. 

    • If the incident involved your coworker or boss, consider reporting the individual to the authorities in your company while seeking legal counsel. 10

    • If the assault happened while you were at school, look into filing a complaint through your educational system in addition to consulting with a legal advisor. 11

 Choosing the best legal course of action after experiencing sexual violence is a personal decision. However, many victims find healing by speaking out about their experiences. Sexual assault, rape and violence are never acceptable behaviors. By choosing to hold the perpetrators of these crimes accountable, you will help protect others in the future.

Sources

(1) “Sexual Violence Is Preventable.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 19 Apr. 2021, https://www.cdc.gov/injury/features/sexual-violence/index.html.

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(2) “Scope of the Problem: Statistics.” RAINN, Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, https://www.rainn.org/statistics/scope-problem. 

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(3) “What Is Rape? How Common Is It?” WomensLaw.org, WomensLaw.org, 20 Aug. 2021, https://www.womenslaw.org/about-abuse/forms-abuse/sexual-abuse-and-exploitation/sexual-assault-rape/basic-info#node-27012. 

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(4) “What Is Sexual Assault? How Common Is It?” WomensLaw.org, WomensLaw.org, 20 Aug. 2021, https://www.womenslaw.org/about-abuse/forms-abuse/sexual-abuse-and-exploitation/sexual-assault-rape/basic-info#node-27011. 

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(5) Santos-Longhurst, Adrienne. “Guide to Consent.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 13 Feb. 2019, https://www.healthline.com/health/guide-to-consent.

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(6) “Why Permission from a Child or Underage Teen Doesn't Count.” Stop It Now, STOP IT NOW!, https://www.stopitnow.org/ohc-content/why-permission-from-a-child-or-underage-teen-doesnt-count. 

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(7) “Who Can I Call for Help?” WomensLaw.org, WomensLaw.org, 19 Nov. 2021, https://www.womenslaw.org/about-abuse/forms-abuse/sexual-abuse-and-exploitation/sexual-assault-rape/steps-take-after-sexual-1. 

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(8) “About the National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline.” RAINN, Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, https://www.rainn.org/about-national-sexual-assault-telephone-hotline.

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(9) “NIFLA: National Institute of Family and Life Advocates.” NIFLA.org, National Institute of Family and Life Advocates, 13 Nov. 2020, https://nifla.org/.

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(10) Clements, Sachi. “How to Report Sexual Harassment.” Nolo.com, Nolo, 3 June 2021, https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/fighting-sexual-harassment-29532.html. 

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(11) Howe, Bill. “Filing Complaints: Stop Sexual Assault in Schools.” Stop Sexual Assault in Schools | To Educate Students, Families, and Schools about Sexual Assault Prevention and the Right to an Equal Education Free of Sexual Harassment., Stop Sexual Assault in Schools, 13 Feb. 2022, https://stopsexualassaultinschools.org/filing-complaints/. 

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(12) “What Can I Do If I Have Been Sexually Assaulted Recently?” WomensLaw.org, WomensLaw.org, 20 Aug. 2021, https://www.womenslaw.org/about-abuse/forms-abuse/sexual-abuse-and-exploitation/sexual-assault-rape/steps-take-after-sexual.

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Infographic Sources

i. “Sexual Violence Is Preventable.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 19 Apr. 2021, https://www.cdc.gov/injury/features/sexual-violence/index.html.

 

ii. United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Administration on Children, Youth and Families, Children’s Bureau. Child Maltreatment Survey, 2012 (2013)

 

iii. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Statistics, National Crime Victimization Survey, 2010-2014 (2015)

 

Sources i and ii via “Scope of the Problem: Statistics.” RAINN, Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, https://www.rainn.org/statistics/scope-problem.

Adoption: 4 Unique Stories Plus FAQs

There Are Many Stories

Adoption creates possibility. It doesn’t mean a child will have a perfect future, but it allows a child to have a future. This can make all the difference.

 

According to the Adoption Network, about 135,000 children are adopted in the United States each year (1). That’s 135,000 children embracing opportunities they may not have been able to otherwise.

 

With about 7 million total adoptees in the U.S., there are stories of adoption all around us. Many of them are heartwarming, while a few are heartbreaking (1). Most of them run the gamut of emotions as a family experiences deep joy following tragedy and pain. Every adoption story is different, as every human is unique. Some children want to know about their birth families; some do not. A few may want to maintain ties to the ethnic or cultural background of their biological parents. Others would rather live according to the culture they’re raised in. Some youth experience behavioral and mental health challenges. Most go through the same challenges any adolescent faces.

 Navigating the adoption process is not easy. We’ve included narratives along with answers to questions about adoption. We hope these resources help you on your journey.

Ryan’s Adoption Story

Consider the story of Ryan Bomberger. He was adopted at six weeks old, the first of ten children his parents would adopt. Ryan was conceived in rape. He is now an author, Emmy-winner, and renowned motivational speaker. Ryan serves as a living example of the potential that a child has even when born from the worst circumstances (2).

 

“My birth mom experienced the horror and the violence of rape,” he says in one of his personal accounts. “She was courageous enough not only to give me life, but she gave me the incredible gift of adoption” (2).

 

Ryan and his wife Bethany head The Radiance Foundation. This nonprofit promotes adoption and other causes related to human dignity and equality. Together they have continued his parents’ legacy of hope. They adopted two children and help pregnancy-related nonprofits raise funds (2).

Pepper’s Experience

Another valuable personal story comes from Pepper. His mother became pregnant at sixteen (3). By common societal standards, he says, she should have had an abortion. She chose adoption instead: “A sophomore in high school got pregnant and didn’t abort me, and that’s a blessing,” he said (3).

 

Pepper’s mother attended a Christian concert that included a plug for adoption at the end. Afterward, she spoke to the musician for more information. Through that connection, she met the couple who would become his adoptive parents (3). The two maintained a relationship with her over the years and allowed her to have a connection with her child (3).

 

“I don’t remember finding out that I had biological parents,” he says now. “I remember finding out that other kids didn’t have [bonus] parents!” (3).

 

Pepper’s birth mother and adoptive family opted for an “open adoption.” This is a relationship in which biological parents keep in contact with the child and his or her new family. About 60-70% of adoptions in the U.S. follow this popular model (1). The level of contact varies with each case. But knowledge of the child’s growth helps birth parents heal from the feeling of loss they may experience (4). For Pepper and his adopted siblings, this was normal. They did not lack any connection in their day-to-day lives. However, growing up with knowledge about them meant they didn’t have to wonder. Their parents were always ready to help answer any questions or to call their birth families to sate their curiosity (3).

 Today, Pepper says that he feels a strong connection to his biological half-sibling. He also had special relationships with his grandparents and extended family growing up (3). Pepper's family’s approach might not apply to every adoption situation. Their story shows how open adoption can keep family ties alive for decades to come.

Want more info about the open adoption process?

We can help guide you through this process here at Ava’s Women Center

Adoption Challenges: Patrick's story

That’s not to say that adoptees don’t face challenges. In a blog post for Psychology Today, specialist and adoptee Patrick Burns writes about the risks adopted children face. These include behavioral and psychological difficulties (5). He also points out that these increased risks are still within a normal range. Often adopted children are diagnosed more frequently. This is because adoptive parents tend to seek out all available help for their children (5).

 Patrick goes into a few details of his own experiences as a teenager on his blog. These experiences included low grades in school, drugs, and conflict with his family. All are problems that many adolescents face, adopted or not (5).  “For quite some time now, I have exhibited little evidence of ‘problem behaviors,'" he says. "I am sober, have completed a B.A. and an M.A., have found fulfilling work, own a house, am in a meaningful relationship, and enjoy a special connection with my mom and dad” (5). 

His story is common. It demonstrates that even if an adoptee encounters challenges growing up, they can overcome them. Adoption can provide relationships that help empower children.

Adoptive Parents: Jay and Julie

Adoptees aren’t the only ones whose lives change for the better in adoption. It makes a world of difference to adoptive parents too. One couple, Jay and Julie fostered and adopted a pair of half-siblings, and then a baby a few years later (6).

 Jay and Julie are honest about the difficulties of their experience. Jay shares that they “went in with rose-colored glasses and realized there were challenges you couldn’t foresee. But those challenges were good” (6).

 According to Jay, those challenges involved a lot of emotional baggage. But the bonds the family formed were worth all the effort. “It was just obvious to a parent in the way that they joined up in our family that they were looking forward to it, to have brothers and sisters and a mom and dad.” In simple terms, “They loved having a family!”(6).

 Today, Jay and Julie’s children are students and young adults. Each has their own talents, personalities, and goals. They all share an obvious love for their parents and each other. Any hardships accompanying the adoption process only strengthened the bond their family shares. “It was a challenge,” Jay says, “but it was not one that we would trade. We love our kids” (5).

Are you struggling with the adoption process?

We’re here with the support you need here at Ava Women’s Center

What All Adoption Stories Share

No two adoption stories are the same, but there are a few things they have in common. In most cases, a birth mother chooses to let someone else raise her child. Others decide to raise that child as their own. In all cases, this involves challenges, which adoptees and families face together.

 

Adoption doesn’t mean a perfect life, nor does it mean a life of stigma and loss. Adoption means life, and where there’s life, there’s hope.

Adoption FAQs

Where can I find information about adoptions?

If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy, or would like more information, Ava Women’s Center can connect you with more resources.

 

Most adoption centers have their own websites and social media pages. These provide specifics like open hours, privacy policies, and terms of service. The staff at Ava Women’s Center are also happy to help you find out what you need to know.

 

How do people find and choose adoptive parents?

There are many avenues birth parents can use to find the right permanent family for their baby. This includes adoption agencies, mutual friends and family, or even social media (7). Finding the right fit varies in length depending on the individual situation. Many agencies allow a birth mother to specify details about the family she’d like her baby to go to. These specifications may include age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or religious background (8).

 

Would I have to use an adoption agency?

No, it is your choice to work with a licensed adoption agency or pursue an independent adoption. An agency is usually able to offer more adoption support, like finding the right parents and navigating the legal process (9).

 

How do I know an adoptive home will be safe?

Anyone seeking an adoption in the U.S. must complete a home study and pass a background check to qualify (10). Specific requirements can differ according to state adoption laws. Public and private agencies may have their own methods for conducting home studies. But all share the common goal of ensuring every adopted child receives a safe, loving home (10).

What kinds of people adopt?

As America has become more diverse, so have adoptive families (11). They come from various backgrounds, all with their own reasons for adopting. Some couples adopt due to infertility. Others seek to adopt after having biological children. Transracial adoption is common, as are both non-religious and Christian adoptions. Most prospective adoptive parents are married or in a domestic partnership. Though some single people form a loving family through adoption (12). While the motivations and the kinds of people differ, they all want to show a child unconditional love.

 

How is international adoption different from domestic adoption?

Many prospective parents choose intercountry adoption. This involves navigating the laws of two countries rather than one. U.S. citizens adopting from abroad must obtain citizenship for their adopted child. The U.S. Department of State has information on its website about what is required. Many agencies and attorneys specialize in international adoptions (13).

 

What rights do birth mothers and birth fathers have?

Your rights as a birth mother seeking adoption vary depending on where you live. You can choose adoption at any time before or after birth. Generally, you can change your mind until the adoption takes place (14). A birth father’s rights also differ by state (15). 

 

Do I get a choice?

If you are an expectant mother, yes, you have the choice whether to give your baby up for adoption. You can also choose whether to use an agency or pursue an independent adoption.

 

If your child is currently in foster care, you still have agency. In some cases, you may choose to surrender your parental rights. This can happen if you believe your child is in a safe home and adoption is the best option. In most states, the foster care system makes every effort to reunify children with their biological parents (17). Foster care adoptions only occur after a termination of parental rights. This usually takes months of reunification services and many review hearings. The court will also consider other family members who express a willingness to adopt.

 

What kind of help can I get?

If you or someone you love is dealing with an unplanned pregnancy, Ava Women’s Center is here to support you. If you choose adoption, there are many resources available to birth mothers. This includes support groups (16). Ava Women’s Center can help connect you with these resources to ensure the well-being of both you and your child.

SOURCES:

  1. US Adoption Statistics. Adoption Network. https://adoptionnetwork.com/adoption-myths-facts/domestic-us-statistics/ 

  2. Bomberger, Ryan. Fun. Bold. Creative. Fearless. Ryan Bomberger. The Radiance Foundation. https://www.theradiancefoundation.org/ryan/ 

  3. Jensen, Pepper. (2021, December 11).  Personal interview.

  4. Henney, Susan. (2007, December 1). Evolution and resolution: Birthmothers' experience of grief and loss at different levels of adoption openness.  Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 24(6).  https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0265407507084188 

  5. Burns, Patrick. (2015, March 31). The Adjustment of Adoptees: Studying the behavior and adjustment of adopted children. Psychology Today (The Guest Room). https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-guest-room/201503/the-adjustment-adoptees. 

  6. Jay and Julie Underwood. Personal interview, December 10, 2021.

  7. How to Find Birthmothers for Adoption Using Social Media. America Adopts! https://americaadopts.com/find-birthmothers-adoption-using-social-media/ 

  8. Waiting Families. Considering Adoption. https://consideringadoption.com/pregnant/finding-a-family/waiting-families/ 

  9. Private vs. Agency Adoption. My Adoption Advisor. https://myadoptionadvisor.com/adoption-articles/private-vs-agency-adoption/ 

  10. The Adoption Home Study Process. Pamphlet. Child Welfare Information Gateway. https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubPDFs/f_homstu.pdf 

  11. What You Need to Know About the History of Adoption. American Adoptions. https://www.americanadoptions.com/adoption/history-of-adoption 

  12. What Types of People Adopt? [The Perfect Family Is Waiting]: How an Adoption Agency Can Help You Find an Adoptive Family. Considering Adoption. https://consideringadoption.com/pregnant/finding-a-family/what-types-of-people-adopt/ 

  13. Adoption. U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services website. https://www.uscis.gov/adoption

  14. “When Can You ‘Give a Child Up’ for Adoption? [Is It Too Late?]”. Considering Adoption.  https://consideringadoption.com/pregnant/when-can-you-choose-adoption/when-can-you-give-a-child-up-for-adoption/ 

  15. Birth Father Rights, the Putative Father Registry and Adoption: How You Can Help Create a Better Future for Your Child. Considering Adoption. https://consideringadoption.com/pregnant/father-of-the-baby/if-you-are-a-birth-father-putative-father-registry/ 

  16. Bolin, Leslie. (2019, October 29). Birth Mother Support Groups. Adoption.com. https://adoption.com/birth-mother-support-groups 

  17. (2021, May 14). Child Welfare Outcomes 2018: Report to Congress. Children’s Bureau. https://www.acf.hhs.gov/cb/report/cwo-2018

  18. Child Welfare Outcomes Report Data. Children’s Bureau. https://cwoutcomes.acf.hhs.gov/cwodatasite/

 

Is Free STI Testing Right for You?

Why Free STI Testing?

Are you sexually active? Did you recently have unprotected sexual intercourse? You may be looking for free STI testing. It’s a good idea to get tested if you’ve experienced vaginal, oral, or anal sex with more than one partner. If your partner has other sexual partners, you could be at risk. Even if you use safe sex practices, they may not protect you from a sexually transmitted infection, or STI.

Do you avoid thinking about STIs and hope it won’t happen to you? No one wants to get an STI that could affect your sexual health and your future. If you’re sexually active and have no symptoms, you or your partner could have an STI and not know it. No matter your sexual orientation, the only way to have peace of mind is to get STI testing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends STI screening (1). Community health clinics and healthcare professionals offer free, or low cost STI testing. Want to learn more about free STI testing? 

Not sexually active yet but thinking about it? Want to know more about STIs and how to prevent them? The good news is that young people can get educated about STIs, no matter your sexual orientation. Get accurate information about STIs. You’re in charge of your reproductive and sexual health. You can make healthy decisions and avoid serious health problems in the future.

Test your knowledge of STIs like HPV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, genital herpes, and HIV. Find out where you can get free STI screening.

Where can I get free, confidential STI testing?

Your health care provider can refer you for STI testing. A doctor, health clinic, county health department, or local health department may provide a list of clinic locations. Ava Women's Center can work with you to help achieve your long-term lasting relationship goals. And instead of using free, would you use 'at no charge'?

We can use the same urine sample you give for a pregnancy test. If you get a positive test result for an STI, we’ll treat you and your partner at no cost [DONATIONS ARE OPTIONAL]. 

Once you receive your test results, we can look at any risk factors for contracting future STIs. Our goal is to find the best way to protect your physical, sexual, and mental health. It’s possible to refer you to more health care professionals for a physical exam, and medical advice.

How Common are STIs (6)? 

  • According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in five people in the United States had an active STI in 2018. That’s nearly 68 million people.

  • There were 26 million new cases of STIs in 2018 

  • People aged 15 to 24 years old had one in two STIs

It’s very important to get tested right away if you:

  • Recently had unprotected sex of any kind, including oral, vaginal, or anal sex

  • Have or had many sexual partners or a recent change in partners

  • Know that your current sexual partner has or had other sex partners

  • Experience itching or burning in your pelvic area

  • Have unusual bleeding or discharge

  • Have sores on your genitals or in your mouth/throat

  • Are pregnant. Having an STI while pregnant (7) can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, pre-term delivery, and birth defects.

  • Have scheduled an abortion. There’s a higher risk of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) (8) in women suffering from an untreated STI.

What are the most common STIs? Are they treatable?

  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection with more than 100 different varieties. It’s the most common STI in the U.S. HPV spreads through sexual intercourse or skin-to-skin contact. Some types of the HP virus cause genital warts. Others can cause cancer of the anus, penis, vagina, vulva, cervical cancer, and throat cancer. You can develop symptoms of HPV years after you have sex with someone infected. The National Cancer Institute (10) cautions the HPV vaccine doesn’t protect against all strains of the virus that cause genital warts or cancer.

  • The most common bacterial STI in the U.S. is Chlamydia, and it is almost symptom-free in 85% of women. Some symptoms of chlamydia include discharge, foul vaginal odor, and irregular bleeding. Complications can include Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility. If you are pregnant and have chlamydia at the time of a full-term delivery, it can cause an eye infection in your baby. Chlamydia is treatable with antibiotics.

  • Gonorrhea is another common and treatable STI, which can also be symptom-free. When symptoms appear, they resemble those of chlamydia. In women, symptoms include itching, burning and abdominal pain. In men, symptoms include burning during urination and/or a yellow discharge. Untreated, gonorrhea can lead to chronic liver disease, PID, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility. Gonorrhea is treatable with antibiotics.

HPV (9)

Chlamydia (11)

Gonorrhea (12)

Other STI/STDs 

Who gets STIs? Am I at risk?

Are you sexually active? Do you have one or more sexual partners? If so, you’re at risk for getting a sexually transmitted infection, or STI. The infection starts with a viral or bacterial infection. Some STIs enter your body through skin-to-skin contact with a person who has an infection. Other STIs enter by the exchange of body fluids like semen, vaginal secretions, or blood during vaginal, oral, or anal sex. If you have an STI, it can pass to your baby during delivery. During an abortion, an STI can spread to other parts of your body, like the cervix or uterus.

If you’ve only had one or two partners, will you get an STD? When it comes to sexually transmitted diseases, here’s how the former U.S. Surgeon General C. Everett Koop, M.D. (16) describes it:

“When you have sex with someone, you are having sex with everyone they have had sex with for the last ten years, and everyone they and their partners have had sex with for the last ten years.”

Even if your partner has no symptoms, you could both have an STI and not know it. If you had treatment for an STI once, you could become infected again. One of the greatest risks of having an STI is not knowing it. With no treatment, STIs can lead to more serious STDs. They can cause infertility, lifelong disease, or even death. There are many ways to get free STI tests. If you think you’re at risk, get tested right away. 

Do safe sex practices prevent STIs?

If I use a condom, it will protect me from STI’s, right? Many people think that using a condom, having oral sex, or engaging in mutual masturbation protects you from getting an STI. Anyone exposed to an infected partner can get an STI in the mouth, throat, genitals, or rectum. Several STDs may spread by oral sex (17) and can then spread throughout the body. Mutual masturbation could also lead to skin-to-skin contact or expose you to the other person’s body fluids.

Many STIs spread by contact with areas not covered by a condom. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (18) states that “condom use cannot guarantee absolute protection against any STD.” Condoms don’t reduce the transmission of some of the most common STIs (19) that spread through skin-to-skin contact, such as genital Herpes, HPV and Syphilis. Condoms are only 85% effective in reducing the risk of contracting HIV/AIDS (20). That leaves you with a 15% risk of getting HIV from an infected partner. If a condom fails, you are even more susceptible to both STIs and pregnancy.

Does double protection work? In this case, two isn’t better than one. Using two male condoms, or a male condom with a female condom is a practice known as “double bagging.” This practice is likely to offer less protection (21). Friction during sexual intercourse could cause the condoms to rub against each other and break. One condom is better than two, but still not 100% effective in preventing STIs.

Thinking about abortion? Get free STI testing first

If you’re sexually active and have unprotected sex, you may get two unexpected surprises: an STI and a pregnancy. If that describes your situation, are you looking for an abortion clinic? Before you schedule an abortion, do these three things: 

  • Verify your pregnancy with a medical-grade pregnancy test

  • Get an ultrasound scan to be sure the pregnancy is growing in the uterus. 

  • Get free STI testing and treatment. 

Ava Women’s Center can help with all three. Make an appointment today.

If you test positive for an STI, get treatment right away before the abortion. Some surgical abortion procedures push STI infections inside the cervix and uterus. That can cause serious problems. 

The good news is that chlamydia and gonorrhea are treatable with antibiotics. If left untreated, chlamydia or gonorrhea can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) (22). PID is dangerous if not treated right away. PID can lead to infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain. 

Always test for STIs before an abortion (23) and get treated before having the procedure. It’s vital that you don’t have an untreated STI for a surgical or medical abortion (abortion pill). 

For all people of any sexual orientation,Ava Women’s Center can work with you to help achieve your long-term relationship goals. Our goal is to encourage you towards relationships with lasting intimacy.

CDC. (2022, June 6).  Screening Recommendations and Considerations Referenced in Treatment Guidelines and Original Resources. https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/screening-recommendations.htm

  1. Healthline. (2021, March 15). What Is the Most Common STD? https://www.healthline.com/health/sexually-transmitted-diseases/most-common-std

  2. CDC. (2022, June 22). Types of HIV Tests. https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/hiv-testing/test-types.html

  3. CDC. (2022, April 12). New data suggest STDs continued to increase during first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2022/p0412-STD-Increase.html#:~:text=Ultimately%2C%20reported%20cases%20of%20gonorrhea,Control%20and%20Prevention%20(CDC).

  4. Healthline. (2020, September 9). The One Difference Between STIs and STDs—and How to Minimize Your Risk https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-sex/sti-vs-std

  5. CDC. (2021, January 25). Sexually Transmitted Infections Prevalence, Incidence, and Cost Estimates in the United States.  https://www.cdc.gov/std/statistics/prevalence-2020-at-a-glance.htm

  6. CDC. (2022, April 12). STDs during Pregnancy—CDC Detailed Fact Sheet.  https://www.cdc.gov/std/pregnancy/stdfact-pregnancy-detailed.htm#:~:text=Untreated%20gonococcal%20infection%20in%20pregnancy,rupture%20of%20membranes%2C%20and%20chorioamnionitis.&text=Gonorrhea%20can%20also%20infect%20an,passes%20through%20the%20birth%20canal.

  7. Europe PMC. (1982, September 1).  Significance of cervical Chlamydia trachomatis infection in postabortal pelvic inflammatory disease. https://europepmc.org/article/med/7121913

  8. Mayo Clinic. (2022, July 29). HPV Infection.  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hpv-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20351596

  9. NIH National Cancer Institute. (2021, May 25\). Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccines.  https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/infectious-agents/hpv-vaccine-fact-sheet#:~:text=Yes.,screening%20recommendations%20for%20vaccinated%20women.

  10. Mayo Clinic. (2022, February 11). Chlamydia trachomatis.  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chlamydia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355349

  11. Mayo Clinic. (2021, October 5). Gonorrhea. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gonorrhea/symptoms-causes/syc-20351774

  12. CDC. (2021, July 22). Genital Herpes—CDC Detailed Fact Sheet.  https://www.cdc.gov/std/herpes/stdfact-herpes-detailed.htm#ref5

  13. Mayo Clinic. (2022, July 28). HIV/AIDS. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hiv-aids/symptoms-causes/syc-20373524

  14. Mayo Clinic. (2021, September 25). Syphilis. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/syphilis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351756

  15. Facebook. (2017, April 4). Sexual Exposure Chart. https://www.facebook.com/UCCHealthVine/photos/when-you-have-sex-with-someone-you-are-having-sex-with-everyone-they-have-had-se/1314214491987470/

  16. CDC. (2021, December 31). STD Rise and Oral Sex—CDC Fact Sheet.  https://www.cdc.gov/std/healthcomm/stdfact-stdriskandoralsex.htm#:~:text=Many%20sexually%20transmitted%20diseases%20(STDs,transmitting%20HIV%20from%20oral%20sex.

  17. CDC. (2021, June 14). Sexual Risk Behaviors Can Lead to HIV, STDs, & Teen Pregnancy.  https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/sexualbehaviors/index.htm#:~:text=The%20correct%20and%20consistent%20use,against%20any%20STD%20or%20pregnancy.

  18. Williams College. (2022). Male Latex Condoms and Sexually Transmitted Diseases.  https://health.williams.edu/medical-diagnoses/sexual-and-reproductive-health/male-latex-condoms-and-sexually-transmitted-diseases/

  19. NIH. (2018, November 29). Condom Use for Preventing HIV Infection.  https://www.niaid.nih.gov/diseases-conditions/condom-use

  20. Bedsider. (2021, November 3). What’s the deal with double bagging?  https://www.bedsider.org/questions/2003-what-s-the-deal-with-double-bagging

  21. CDC. (2021, July 22). Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)—CDC Detailed Fact Sheet.  https://www.cdc.gov/std/pid/stdfact-pid-detailed.htm

  22. Little Way. (2022). Does an STD/STI matter when considering abortion? https://littleway.org/does-an-std-sti-matter-when-considering-abortion/

Abortion Pill Reversal FAQ

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

If you have changed your mind after taking the abortion pill there is a chance you can save your pregnancy.  An antidote is available to work to stop the effects of the abortion pill.  It is not uncommon for a woman to have feelings of regret after taking the abortion pill.  At Ava Women’s Center we can help you learn everything you need to know about the Abortion Pill Reversal procedure and where you can get the help you need in your local community.

Here are frequently asked questions from the Abortion Pill Reversal website.

FAQ Abortion pill reversal

What is abortion pill reversal?

Abortion Pill reversal is a protocol used to reverse the effects of the chemical abortion process (medication abortion, abortion pill, medical abortion, RU-486) [1][2][3]. For those who regret starting a chemical abortion, the abortion pill reversal offers a last chance to choose life. There is hope and help available for those who change their minds and want to continue a pregnancy at the APR helpline 877.558.0333 and website.

What should a woman do if she wants to reverse her chemical abortion?

A woman who chooses to reverse the effects of mifepristone and continue her pregnancy should call the Abortion Pill Rescue hotline 877.558.0333 or go to the APR website to begin a live chat. The APR Healthcare Team is waiting to help.

Why is progesterone used?

Mifepristone blocks progesterone’s actions by binding to progesterone receptors in the uterus and the placenta. Progesterone is the natural hormone in a woman’s body that is necessary to nurture and sustain a pregnancy.[4] By giving extra progesterone, the hope is to outnumber and outcompete the mifepristone in order to reverse the effects of mifepristone.[5]

Is it too late to reverse the abortion pill?

For those seeking abortion pill reversal, the goal is to start the protocol within 24 hours of taking the first abortion pill, mifepristone, also known as RU-486. However, there have been many successful reversals when treatment was started within 72 hours of taking the first abortion pill.

Even if 72 hours have passed, call our hotline (877) 558-0333. We are here to help. It may not be too late.

The abortion clinic said I have to complete the abortion; is that true?

No, it is always your choice to change your mind. Even if you have started the chemical abortion process, reversal may still be a choice for you.

What if I am cramping or spotting? Does it mean it’s too late to reverse the abortion pill?

Spotting or bleeding is common during reversal treatment. It is important and safe to continue the progesterone even if you experience spotting or bleeding, unless directed otherwise.

If you experience heavy bleeding, faintness, severe abdominal pain, or fever, seek emergency medical attention immediately. This could be an effect of the mifepristone and would require immediate care.

It is important to have an ultrasound to confirm that your baby is in the uterus as soon as possible.

What if I want to reverse the abortion pill but I’ve waited too long? What do I do then?

Please call our hotline number (877) 558-0333. You may still be pregnant. It may not be too late.

What about the other pills the abortion clinic gave me?

The second medication is called misoprostol or Cytotec. Its purpose is to cause the uterus to contract and expel the baby.

The Misoprostol/Cytotec is not needed if you want to try to reverse the chemical abortion.

How do I start the Abortion Pill Reversal process?

  • Call our hotline (877) 558-0333.

  • Our on-call Healthcare Professional will ask you some basic questions to see if reversal is possible.

  • The Healthcare Professional will then connect you with a doctor or medical provider in your area to start treatment, if that is your choice.

What is the treatment to reverse the abortion pill?

An ultrasound will be done as soon as possible to confirm heart rate, placement, and dating of the pregnancy.

The doctor or other medical provider will prescribe progesterone, given as a pill to be taken orally or vaginally or possibly by intramuscular injection.

The treatment will usually continue through the first trimester of pregnancy.

What is the success rate of Abortion Pill Reversal?

Initial studies of APR have shown that APR has a 64-68% success rate. Without the APR treatment, mifepristone may fail to abort the pregnancy on its own. In other words, your pregnancy may continue even without APR if you decide not to take misoprostol, the second abortion drug likely prescribed or provided to you when you took mifepristone. APR has been shown to increase the chances of allowing the pregnancy to continue.

However, the outcome of your particular reversal attempt cannot be guaranteed.[6]

What about birth defects? Is my baby going to be OK?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) in its Practice Bulletin Number 143, March 2014, states that: “No evidence exists to date of a teratogenic effect of mifepristone.” In other words, it does not appear that mifepristone, RU-486, causes birth defects.

Progesterone has been safely used in pregnancy for over 50 years. Initial studies have found that the birth defect rate in babies born after the APR is less than or equal to the rate in the general population. Neither Mifepristone nor progesterone is associated with birth defects. [7][8]

What are the possible side effects of progesterone?

Progesterone may cause sleepiness, lack of energy, light headedness, dizziness, gastrointestinal discomfort and headaches. Increased fluid intake might help relieve these symptoms.

It is important that you follow all of the instructions of your APR provider carefully. If you have any questions, contact your provider.

Some progesterone treatments include peanut oil – what if I am allergic to peanuts?

If you are allergic to peanuts or peanut oil, notify your provider before beginning APR. Progesterone may include this ingredient, so it is important that you notify your provider of any of these allergies before taking progesterone. An alternative form of progesterone may be available for those with an allergy.

How much will this cost?

Costs of the treatment varies depending on the progesterone used. Insurance plans may cover treatment. Women who do not have insurance or financial means to pay for treatment should discuss this with their medical provider.

In cases of financial hardship, APR will help you find ways to reduce the cost of the treatment.

Even though I regret my decision to take the abortion pill, there is no way I could keep and raise this baby alone and without support. What do I do?

We are here to help support pregnant women and their developing babies. Contact us and we can connect you to the support you need to make the best decision possible for you and your baby.

If you think parenting might be an option for you, but you have concerns about money, baby supplies, insurance or your parenting skills, there may be local help available.

I’d like to save this pregnancy, but I’ll probably get kicked out of my house. What should I do?

Call us at (877) 558-0333. We will help you find the resources you need for your particular situation. Most women might need a little (or a lot) of help. There are over 2,000 organizations in the United States, and many more around the world, who help women and families with anything from baby bottles and diapers, to peer and professional consultations, and even housing.

Are the abortion pill and the morning after pill the same thing?

No, they are different. The “morning after pill” is marketed as an emergency contraception method. The most commonly used preparation contains a high level of a progestin and can be taken up to 72 hours after sexual intercourse. New insights into how it works make it clear that it can prevent implantation of the young human embryo into the lining of the uterus. This is a contragestational or abortifacient effect, not a contraceptive effect.

The abortion pill, mifepristone, is taken up to 70 days (10 weeks) into a pregnancy with the intention of causing an abortion. It works by blocking progesterone receptors. Progesterone is the necessary hormone that nurtures and supports a pregnancy.

The newest morning after pill, Ella, is very similar to mifepristone in its action in that it blocks progesterone receptors. It is approved by the FDA for use up to five days after intercourse and also has abortifacient effects.

Does your organization provide the abortion pill to women or perform surgical abortions?

Abortion Pill Rescue provides compassionate support for women during their pregnancies and does not provide or refer for abortion services. We work diligently to provide women seeking reversal with information and resources to make healthy choices for their pregnancies.

Do any professional organizations support Abortion Pill Reversal?

The American Association of Pro-Life Obstetricians and Gynecologists, a 2500-member organization, supports offering Abortion Pill Reversal (APR) to women who regret initiating the abortion pill process, after appropriate informed consent.

> View the AAPLOG statement here

 

There are many cases of women who have changed their minds after taking the abortion pill and gone on to have a successful pregnancy with the Abortion Pill Reversal protocol.  So while you are not alone, your situation is unique to you.  At Ava Women’s Center we have years of experience and the answers for which you are looking.  Please contact us. We are here to help you.

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

 

[1] Mifeprex REMS Study Group (2017). Sixteen Years of Overregulation: Time to Unburden Mifeprex. New England Journal of Medicine.

[2] Medication Abortion. Mayo Clinic Web Site. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/medical-abortion/about/pac-20394687. Published July 7, 2018. Retrieved September 8, 2018.

[3] Medical Management of First Trimester Abortion. Clinical Management Guidelines for Obstetricians-Gynecologists Practice Bulletin. Number 143. March 2014.

[4] Progesterone Treatment to Help Prevent Premature Birth. March of Dimes Web Site. https://www.marchofdimes.org/complications/progesterone-treatment-to-help-prevent-premature-birth.aspx. Published 2018. Retrieved September 8, 2018.

[5] Hormones in Pregnancy. Niger Med J. 2012 Oct;53(4):179-83. doi: 10.4103/0300-1652.107549.

[6]Delgado, G, M.D., Condly, S. Ph.D., Davenport, M, M.D., M.S.,Tinnakornsrisuphap, T Ph.D., Mack, J., Ph.D., NP, RN,  Khauv, V., B.S., and Zhou, P. A Case Series Detailing the Successful Reversal of the Effects of Mifepristone Using Progesterone. Issues in Law & Medicine, Volume 33, Number 1, 2018

[7] Unleashing the power of a woman’s cycle: Progesterone Support in Pregnancy. NaPro Technology Web Site. https://www.naprotechnology.com/progesterone.htm. Retrieved July 11, 2018.

[8] Progesterone and Pregnancy: A Vital Connection. Resolve Web Site. https://resolve.org/infertility-101/the-female-body/progesterone-pregnancy-vital-connection/. Published 2018. Retrieved July 11, 2018.

Pregnancy Confirmation Ultrasound

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

The main reason you should get an ultrasound is simply to see how far along you are in your pregnancy.  With this safe and accurate procedure you will also be able to detect the fetal heartbeat, determine the baby’s age and approximate due date. One of the most exciting services we offer at Ava Women’s Center is a FREE ultrasound.

WHY SHOULD I GET AN ULTRASOUND?

  • Confirm pregnancy

  • Detect the fetal heartbeat

  • Determine the age of the baby and due date

  • Pinpoint the location of the pregnancy (normal or ectopic pregnancy)

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

WHAT IS AN ULTRASOUND?

An ultrasound is simply a method of creating an image with the use of high frequency sound waves, so high they cannot be heard by human ears.  The sound waves bounce back to the ultrasound equipment to form the image on a monitor.  The procedure is totally safe and painless for both you and your baby.

ABDOMINAL ULTRASOUND

At Ava Women’s Center you will receive a FREE abdominal ultrasound in which our medical professional will pass the wand over your belly to transmit the image to the ultrasound monitor.

TRANSVAGINAL ULTRASOUND

There is another ultrasound procedure, in most cases performed by a gynecologist, called a transvaginal ultrasound.  According to the Mayo Clinic,  “A transvaginal ultrasound allows your doctor to see the exact location of your pregnancy. For this test, a wand-like device is placed into your vagina. It uses sound waves to create images of your uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes, and sends the pictures to a nearby monitor.”1

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

A SAFE AND HEALTHY PREGNANCY

One very important reason you should get an ultrasound is to determine the location of the pregnancy.  If the pregnancy is not in the right place there could be a problem. According to Mayo Clinic, “An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants and grows outside the main cavity of the uterus. Pregnancy begins with a fertilized egg. Normally, the fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy most often occurs in a fallopian tube, which carries eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. This type of ectopic pregnancy is called a tubal pregnancy.” 2

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR AN ULTRASOUND?

It is a good idea to wear loose fitting clothes for easy access to your abdomen when you come to Ava Women’s Center to have your FREE ultrasound.  It is recommended that you drink plenty of liquids (water) and try to not empty your bladder before the procedure. A full bladder makes it easier for the baby to be seen.

The ultrasound is given after the pregnancy is confirmed and your pregnancy has advanced.  If the ultrasound is given too early in the pregnancy the image of the baby will not be defined.

FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL

A great starting point may be for you to make an appointment for your ultrasound—it’s FREE and confidential and our caring staff can answer any question you may have. Before your ultrasound you will meet with one of our advocates to go over your medical history and discuss all of your concerns.   At Ava Women’s Center we are here to help you with your pregnancy. 

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

1 – https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ectopic-pregnancy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372093

2 – https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ectopic-pregnancy/symptoms-causes/syc-20372088-

Considering an Abortion? Here’s the Info You Need

abortion_info1.jpg

Are you pregnant? Do you think you may be pregnant? If so, you may find yourself wondering what your options are. At this point, many people begin looking for abortion information and find the waters to be muddied. The decisions you’re facing are stressful enough as it is. Our goal is to equip you with the facts about abortion so you can make an informed decision about your pregnancy.

So how do we start? Well, first things first. You’ll want to confirm whether you’re pregnant or not.

Am I Pregnant? The Urine Test

A urine test will identify the pregnancy hormone, also known as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). They are highly accurate in their detection of hCG levels. However, if you took the test close to the time you missed your period, you may get a more accurate reading now that some time has gone by. The hCG concentration increases each day during early pregnancy, so it may be ideal to test yourself about a week after missing your period.

Two Options for Urine Testing

Your first option is the home pregnancy test (HPT). These have been on the market for several decades and tend to be quite accurate. If you go this route, make sure your test is not expired and that you carefully follow the instructions.

However, we highly recommend the second option, which is clinical testing. Going into a clinic for your urine test should take away some of the stress of human error. You’ll have the assurance of knowing that the people there are knowledgeable and have gone through the process many times before. This is also an opportunity to gather additional information in a safe, confidential setting.

Confirming Pregnancy

So let’s say you go to a clinic and your pregnancy test is positive. First of all, that’s typically all the information you’d receive regarding the status of pregnancy. You’d probably be told that the test is positive, rather than being told that you’re pregnant. We understand that there are many factors involved and that a positive reading can mean different things for different people.

As effective as these tests are, there’s always the chance for error. That’s why you’ll want to confirm your pregnancy with an ultrasound. This is something we can do for you right here at our office. The ultrasound will confirm whether you have a viable pregnancy. It will also give you a more accurate dating of your pregnancy.

Another thing to consider at this point is making an appointment with your physician. Don’t have a physician? No problem. The pregnancy clinic or resource center can help you find one right for you. If you don’t already have someone in mind, your physician can refer you to an OB/GYN. Another thing you can be tested for at that time is sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Not Ready? Educate Yourself with Abortion Information

There are many young women who go through the steps already mentioned and for one reason or another, do not feel ready to continue the pregnancy. The most important thing at this point is to gather all the abortion facts you can so you can make an educated decision. We’re talking about questions like what abortion is, what it involves at each stage of pregnancy, and whether there are any risks associated with abortion. We’ll now take a look at some information on abortion to get a clearer picture.

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Abortion Information and Facts

What is Abortion?

Clearly, this is a hot topic and it can be difficult to find the abortion information you really need. So let’s take a look at what a federal government agency has to say. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), “a legal induced abortion is defined as an intervention performed by a licensed clinician (e.g., a physician, nurse-midwife, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant) that is intended to terminate an ongoing pregnancy.” That said, there are several types of possible abortions. While there are different ways to break these types down, we’ll simplify it here.

Miscarriage

Miscarriage, also known as spontaneous abortion, can be defined as “a pregnancy that ends on its own, within the first 20 weeks of gestation.” This is the most common way a pregnancy is lost, with 10-25% of all clinically recognized pregnancies ending in miscarriage. This usually occurs during the first 13 weeks of pregnancy and is obviously quite different from the other information about abortion covered here.

Chemical Abortion

The Guttmacher Institute states that “medication abortions accounted for 39% of all abortions in 2017, up from 29% in 2014.” The United States Food and Drug Administration approved the drug mifepristone in 2000. This is a first trimester abortion, something that occurs within the first 10 weeks of gestation. The intent with this pill is to end a pregnancy in women who have experienced their last period in the past 10 weeks, or 70 days.

Surgical Abortion

One method of surgical abortion is called an aspiration abortion. This is another type of abortion that occurs in the first trimester. Normally, the patient will need to be dilated well before the procedure takes place. The abortion practitioner then uses either a plastic cannula or a hand-held syringe to pull the baby out of the uterus. Early-stage aspiration abortions are done between 5-9 weeks, but can be done between 10-14 weeks if using a machine-operated pump.

Another method of surgical abortion is known as dilation and evacuation. This is the method used during the second trimester. It involves vacuum aspiration as well as utilizing forceps to remove the baby from the uterus. If it’s been more than 13 weeks since your last menstrual period, a dilation and evacuation is most likely the type of abortion you’d be having. While this is typically an outpatient procedure, risks increase as your pregnancy progresses.

Risks Associated with Abortion

We just mentioned the fact that risks increase as your pregnancy progresses. That brings up an important topic many women are looking for when seeking abortion information. So what are the risks?

  • According to the Mayo Clinic, “Women who have multiple surgical abortion procedures may also have more risk of trauma to the cervix.” This can pose problems for future pregnancies.

  • Studies have listed “induced abortion” as a breast cancer risk factor.

  • One study concluded that abortion can pose a serious threat to the mother’s life. Again, we look to the CDC for statistics: “The national legal induced abortion case-fatality rate for 2008–2013 was 0.62 legal induced abortion-related deaths per 100,000 reported legal abortions.”

  • There may be emotional side effects related to abortion, whether the abortion was planned or not. There may be increased risk of mental health problems following an abortion.

  • Another infrequent yet serious complication of induced abortion is pulmonary thromboembolism.

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

So What’s Right For You?

It’s important for you to gather accurate pregnancy and abortion information so you can make an informed decision. You hold the key insights as to what’s going on in your life and what your future will look like. But people are here waiting to help. Do you need someone to talk to?

Just pick up the phone or send an e-mail to schedule an appointment at your convenience. You’ll get a thoughtful, non-judgmental response on the other end. Please note, our office doesn’t provide or perform abortions but can provide the abortion information you need. We’re here to help you choose the best next steps for your life.

 

Disclaimer: This website and blog does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Content from this website and blog is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. The information provided on this website is intended for general understanding only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice.

Free Pregnancy Test

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If you think you may be pregnant your next step should be scheduling a FREE Pregnancy Test from Ava Women’s Center.  You do NOT have to go through this process alone. At Ava Women’s Center we can help you deal with the results, no matter what they are, in a manner that is best for you and your situation. We have compassion for you and want to help you in any way we can.

FIRST THINGS FIRST — Am I Pregnant?

If you think you may be pregnant it is important to know about the changes taking place in your body that may indicate pregnancy.  Remember every woman is different and common signs of pregnancy may or may not pertain to your situation.

Some common symptoms of early pregnancy include:

  • Missed period

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Breast tenderness

  • Frequent urination

  • Fatigue

For a complete list of pregnancy symptoms click HERE.

According to WebMD the only way to know for sure if you are pregnant is “by taking a pregnancy test”

At Ava Women’s Center we can give you a FREE and confidential pregnancy test.  When you call for an appointment we will answer your questions and provide you with help you need every step of the way.

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

How Soon Should I Take a Pregnancy Test?

According to Healthline, “You should wait to take a pregnancy test until the week after your missed period for the most accurate result.

If you don’t want to wait until you’ve missed your period, you should wait at least one or two weeks after you had sex. If you are pregnant, your body needs time to develop detectable levels of HCG. This typically takes seven to 12 days after successful implantation of an egg.

You may receive an inaccurate result if the test is taken too early in your cycle.”

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Should I take a home pregnancy test?

According to a healthy lifestyle article on the Mayo Clinic website, “Taking a home pregnancy test can be nerve-wracking, especially if you’re not sure you can trust the results. Know when and how to take a home pregnancy test — as well as some of the possible pitfalls of home testing.”

If you are not sure when the best time is to take the home pregnancy test and take the test too early, check the test results too soon, use diluted urine or have been taking fertility drugs or medications containing HCG, there is a chance the results will be inaccurate.

Home pregnancy tests including such brand names as First Response, ClincialGaurd, Clearblue, Pregmate, New Choice and Wondfo, advertise to be 99% accurate.

National pharmacies and retail stores offer generic and store brand pregnancy tests including, Walgreen’s One Step, Target’s Early Results Pregnancy Test-Up&Up, CVS Early Result Pregnancy Test and Wal-Mart’s Equate Early Result Pregnancy Test.

All over the counter tests recommend if you think you a pregnant you should contact your health care provider.  That is where Ava Women’s Center comes in.  We can help you confirm your pregnancy and discuss your options for the future.

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

How do pregnancy tests work?

There are two basic kinds of pregnancy tests, the first uses urine and can be purchased over the counter, and the second test uses a blood sample and is administered in a doctor’s office or clinic.  Both tests measure the level of the hormone hGC, human chorionic gonadotropin that indicates a pregnancy.

According to Medicinet.com, “hCG is made when a fertilized egg implants in the uterus. This usually happens about six days after the egg and sperm merge. But studies show that in up to 10 percent of women, implantation does not occur until much later, after the first day of the missed period. The amount of hCG rapidly builds up in your body with each passing day you are pregnant.”

Clinical pregnancy tests are more accurate than over the counter home tests.

The primary reason a clinical pregnancy test is more accurate than an over the counter home test is the experience and frequency in which the clinic administers tests.  At Ava Women’s Center we have given hundreds of tests and are constantly updating our kits for optimum freshness and accuracy.

There are many variables that lead to inaccurate readings from a home tests. At Ava Women’s Center we do our best to eliminate those variables so you know for sure whether or not you are pregnant.