Do you suspect that you may be pregnant? If you are a teenager who answered “yes” to this question, you have plenty of big decisions to make in a relatively short amount of time. And whether or not you live with a parent or guardian, you may feel anxious about what might come. However, there are places that can help: all over the United States, teen pregnancy centers are popping up in order to provide care and guidance to young women who need it most.
If you would like to visit a teen pregnancy center, but you’re not sure what to expect, here are three things you should find in all of these facilities:
Free Pregnancy Tests
For some teens, the early warning signs of pregnancy can look an awful lot like pre-menstrual symptoms. As a result, a pregnancy test is needed. Many teens who suspect that they may be pregnant are unable or afraid to buy a pregnancy test on their own, especially if they risk being found out by Mom and Dad. Teen pregnancy centers offer free pregnancy tests in a safe location, so those young women can get the answer they need. In addition to free pregnancy tests, these centers also provide the perfect place to receive complimentary support and guidance if that plus sign appears.
Free Pregnancy Information
Because this is a difficult time in any teenager’s life, many teen pregnancy centers offer counseling services and unbiased information on pregnancy to help these young women. An unintended pregnancy can be a frightening experience, so it’s important to find a place that can provide as much support as possible. This information may include anything from facts about teenage pregnancy to resources about abortion and adoption, if desired.
Continued Care
In the early stages of pregnancy, women of all ages need to ensure that they stay healthy. They also need to receive testing to ensure their health. Teen pregnancy centers can perform more procedures than simply pregnancy tests; they also offer patients ultrasounds and tests to determine embryonic and fetal health.
Have more questions about how a teen pregnancy center could be the right place for you? Be sure to find one in your area that can provide you with objective information and the testing that you need. Leave a comment below for more questions or with advice of your own.