Birth Control, Abstinence and Unplanned Pregnancy:
Who Taught You About Sex?
Recently, the type of sex education received by teenagers and young adults has come under the microscope. Some have criticized sex education programs for their focus (or lack thereof) on either abstinence or birth control as a way to prevent unplanned pregnancy and abortion.
Birth control and unplanned pregnancy are a sensitive topic for many, but a recent study has tried to analyze the connection between abstinence and contraceptive sex education, and the likelihood of experiencing an unplanned pregnancy. A total of 1,400 North American women were asked: "Where did you get your sex education, and are you satisfied?"
Parents, School and Sex Education
Women can receive sex education and information about birth control from a variety of sources. These include parents, school programs, doctors, clinics, friends, books and the Internet. In fact, the study found that women were more satisfied as well as less likely to experience an unplanned pregnancy if they received sex education from a variety of sources.
In particular, the majority of respondents preferred getting information about sex from their friends, as well as other informal sources as opposed to schools and clinics, for example. Satisfaction proved to be an important consideration, and seems to be connected to fewer unplanned pregnancies.
Birth Control vs Abstinence Education
The debate about sex education with a focus on either abstinence or contraception has been highlighted by critics. More specifically, the question arises: what type of education system can prevent unplanned pregnancies and abortion?
According to the study, women who received no education about abstinence or birth control from parents and schools were the most likely to have an unplanned pregnancy. In contrast, those who received sex education that either focused on abstinence only, or equally focused on abstinence and contraception in school were least likely to have an unplanned pregnancy or abortion.
In addition, the study looked at the relationship between religion and sex education. The results suggest that women who are not affiliated with a religion such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism or Buddhism were more likely to experience an unplanned pregnancy. This may be due to the type of education received from religious parents; for example, parents of respondents of Christian affiliation were more likely to teach their daughters about abstinence.
Conclusions: What Does It All Mean?
So what does the type of sex education a woman receives say about her chances of having an unplanned pregnancy?
The study suggests that the best way to prevent unplanned pregnancy and abortion is by offering sex education that includes abstinence as a viable alternative to contraception, particularly when combined with birth control education. Indeed, respondents whose religious and cultural backgrounds encouraged abstinence were less likely to report an unplanned pregnancy, though education about contraceptive methods remains an important part of the equation.
Offering other sources of sex education such as birth control and STD information from Internet sources may also be beneficial since most women preferred informal sex education. In fact, the data used in the study was retrieved through an Internet survey that was not connected to any other websites. While this may make for some biased response rates, overall the Internet seems to be an important option to consider when it comes to offering discussion and education about sex for teenagers.
When it comes to new models of sex education, school and parents still play an important role in preventing the risk of unplanned pregnancy. However, the study suggests that a peer model for sex education could prove beneficial, since women were more satisfied when receiving information from friends.
Source: M. T. Williams, L. Bonner, "Sex Education Attitudes and Outcomes Among North American Women," Adolescence, 41(161):1-14, Spring 2006
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Choosing Adoptive Parents
Pregnancy Crisis: Questions to Ask Potential Adoptive Parents
Pregnancy can be an overwhelming experience for a teenager, particularly if it is an unplanned pregnancy. One of the foremost concerns in cases of teenage pregnancy is weighing the options of parenting, adoption or abortion. Adoption is one path that many teens take because it is a unique opportunity that can provide a variety of benefits that the teen would often not otherwise be able to provide for her child. As such, it is important for pregnant women to ask potential adoptive parents a variety of questions that address important issues so as to choose the best home for their baby.
Interviewing Potential Adoptive Parents
When looking for potential adoptive parents, it is important for a pregnant teen to ask questions that will provide insight into important issues that will affect both the birth parents and their child. Consider asking potential adoptive parents the following questions:
Your Role as Birth Mother
In addition, it is important to consider what type of role you would like to have as the birth mother. For instance, how much contact would you like to have with the child? What kinds of visiting privileges will you have? Will anyone else share these privileges (i.e. the baby’s father)? Do you want to name the baby? Also, you should take into account how much contact the adoptive parents will have with you during your pregnancy: will the adoptive parents be involved during pregnancy? Will they be present at the baby’s birth?
While these questions can sometimes be difficult to think about, and often require great reflection before a decision can be reached, it is imperative to consider them thoroughly in order to ensure that you are comfortable with the home in which your baby is placed.
Pregnancy can be an overwhelming experience for a teenager, particularly if it is an unplanned pregnancy. One of the foremost concerns in cases of teenage pregnancy is weighing the options of parenting, adoption or abortion. Adoption is one path that many teens take because it is a unique opportunity that can provide a variety of benefits that the teen would often not otherwise be able to provide for her child. As such, it is important for pregnant women to ask potential adoptive parents a variety of questions that address important issues so as to choose the best home for their baby.
Interviewing Potential Adoptive Parents
When looking for potential adoptive parents, it is important for a pregnant teen to ask questions that will provide insight into important issues that will affect both the birth parents and their child. Consider asking potential adoptive parents the following questions:
- why are you interested in adopting?
- how long have you been married?
- what makes your marriage successful?
- what kind of contact would you like to have with the birth mother?
- what type of relationship do you have with your extended family?
- how many children do you have/are you planning to have?
- what future do you see for your adopted child?
- what is your educational background?
- what is your occupation?
- are you both planning to work after adopting?
- where do you live?
- are you planning on moving in the future?
- what are your religious beliefs?
- how do you handle conflict?
- what are your views regarding discipline?
- what makes you good parents?
Your Role as Birth Mother
In addition, it is important to consider what type of role you would like to have as the birth mother. For instance, how much contact would you like to have with the child? What kinds of visiting privileges will you have? Will anyone else share these privileges (i.e. the baby’s father)? Do you want to name the baby? Also, you should take into account how much contact the adoptive parents will have with you during your pregnancy: will the adoptive parents be involved during pregnancy? Will they be present at the baby’s birth?
While these questions can sometimes be difficult to think about, and often require great reflection before a decision can be reached, it is imperative to consider them thoroughly in order to ensure that you are comfortable with the home in which your baby is placed.
Benefits of Adoption
Pregnancy Crisis: Benefits of Adoption
When faced with an unplanned pregnancy, many women become overwhelmed by the prospect of becoming a parent. For some, these types of feelings can lead to the decision to terminate the pregnancy (abortion). For others, it can lead to severe anxiety and stress over how they will cope with impending parenthood.
In these types of situations, adoption may provide a solution. Indeed, adoption provides the birth mother with the opportunity to continue bettering herself for the future, while also providing her child with loving parents who are financially and emotionally prepared for the responsibility.
Benefits for the Mother, Child, and Adoptive Parents
For some expectant mothers, adoption is the ideal way to resolve the dilemma of, on the one hand, wanting to provide her child with a good life, while on the other, acknowledging the fact that they are either not in a place financially or emotionally to be able to do so.
In fact, studies have shown that among unmarried women faced with an unplanned pregnancy, those that choose adoption (rather than parenting) are more likely to finish school, pursue higher education, and are also less likely to live in poverty and receive social assistance.
Other benefits of adoption include:
Choosing adoption means also giving your child the opportunity for a better education, and more importantly, a loving family environment that will nurture him or her for future sucesss.
Questions to Consider Before Choosing Adoption
While many mothers who choose adoption for their child report feeling at peace with their decision, it is important to keep the following questions in mind when considering whether or not adoption is right for you:
Once you are comfortable with the answers to these questions, you will know you are making the right decision.
When faced with an unplanned pregnancy, many women become overwhelmed by the prospect of becoming a parent. For some, these types of feelings can lead to the decision to terminate the pregnancy (abortion). For others, it can lead to severe anxiety and stress over how they will cope with impending parenthood.
In these types of situations, adoption may provide a solution. Indeed, adoption provides the birth mother with the opportunity to continue bettering herself for the future, while also providing her child with loving parents who are financially and emotionally prepared for the responsibility.
Benefits for the Mother, Child, and Adoptive Parents
For some expectant mothers, adoption is the ideal way to resolve the dilemma of, on the one hand, wanting to provide her child with a good life, while on the other, acknowledging the fact that they are either not in a place financially or emotionally to be able to do so.
In fact, studies have shown that among unmarried women faced with an unplanned pregnancy, those that choose adoption (rather than parenting) are more likely to finish school, pursue higher education, and are also less likely to live in poverty and receive social assistance.
Other benefits of adoption include:
- being able to pursue goals and aspirations
- financial assistance, including all prenatal, delivery, and legal expenses
- choice of adoptive parents you would like for your child, as well as what type of interaction you would like with them in the future
- knowing your child will be well cared for
- knowing you're giving a couple the opportunity to fulfill their dream of starting a family
Choosing adoption means also giving your child the opportunity for a better education, and more importantly, a loving family environment that will nurture him or her for future sucesss.
Questions to Consider Before Choosing Adoption
While many mothers who choose adoption for their child report feeling at peace with their decision, it is important to keep the following questions in mind when considering whether or not adoption is right for you:
- Have I given myself enough time to consider all aspects of this decision (or am I making it impulsively)?
- Is the information I’m basing my decision on reliable, or is it from a movie, TV show, or other media sources?
- Is this decision being made based on my needs and interests, or am I doing it for someone else?
- Is my decision also based on what is in the best interest of my child?
Once you are comfortable with the answers to these questions, you will know you are making the right decision.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Making A Decision
Pregnancy Crisis: How to Start Making a Decision
Of all the decisions we make in our lives, considering becoming a parent is one of the most personal, and important one of all. Unfortunately, however, not everyone is afforded the opportunity to plan when and how the need to make this decision might arise. Indeed, the reality is that despite advances in contraceptive methods, unplanned pregnancies continue to account for half of all pregnancies in the United States alone.
For some, becoming pregnant might be an expected blessing, but for others, the results of a positive pregnancy test can be more of a shock than anything else. In this case, it’s important to know and understand your choices, so you can make the best decision possible.
Weighing Your Options: Parenting, Adoption, Abortion
When it comes to how to handle an unplanned pregnancy, it seems everyone has strong opinions. Whether it be your partner, your parents, or your friends, you may be surprised to learn the people you thought would be most supportive are actually not the most understanding about your situation.
If you are a teen, your parents may be disappointed, and encourage you to terminate the pregnancy. The father might feel similarly, particularly if you are not in a committed relationship. Conversely, friends and family may encourage you to become a mother, despite the fact that you don’t feel ready. However well-intentioned the advice may be, it is critical that you understand that only you will have to live with the consequences of your actions. Therefore, your ultimate decision should be one you are comfortable with. Those who are truly supportive of you will eventually understand.
To that end, you may want to consider seeking counseling to help sort through your feelings. It is also a good idea to keep a journal, so that you can gain better perspective on your emotions. It is important not to rush into a decision.
In addition, you should consider the following questions while evaluating your options:
Choice 1: Becoming a Parent
If asked, most parents would describe their experiences with raising their children as both the most rewarding and challenging of their lives. Indeed, watching and guiding your child as she grows is a truly incomparable experience. However, without the right support, all of the otherwise joyous moments of parenting can easily become burdensome.
Consider these questions when thinking of becoming a parent:
What is my relationship like with the father?
How could I work to achieve my goals while continuing to be a mother to my child?
Choice 2: Adoption
For some, adoption may seem like a satisfying compromise between terminating a pregnancy and becoming a parent. However, there is a lot to consider when it comes to putting your child up for adoption, both in the short and long-term. Some questions to be considered include:
It is also important to be aware that though the option to choose to become a parent is for the most part still available during the pregnancy, most adoption centers will require your decision to be made when the child is six months old.
Choice 3: Abortion
Choosing to have an abortion is a very personal and often emotional decision. It is important that whatever your ultimate choice may be, you make it knowingly and for the right reasons. In order to do this, you will want to consider the following questions:
In the end, it is important that you make your decision in the most informed manner possible. By considering all your options carefully, you can ensure that your ultimate choice will be one that you can live with. After all, in the end, it will only be you who will.
Of all the decisions we make in our lives, considering becoming a parent is one of the most personal, and important one of all. Unfortunately, however, not everyone is afforded the opportunity to plan when and how the need to make this decision might arise. Indeed, the reality is that despite advances in contraceptive methods, unplanned pregnancies continue to account for half of all pregnancies in the United States alone.
For some, becoming pregnant might be an expected blessing, but for others, the results of a positive pregnancy test can be more of a shock than anything else. In this case, it’s important to know and understand your choices, so you can make the best decision possible.
Weighing Your Options: Parenting, Adoption, Abortion
When it comes to how to handle an unplanned pregnancy, it seems everyone has strong opinions. Whether it be your partner, your parents, or your friends, you may be surprised to learn the people you thought would be most supportive are actually not the most understanding about your situation.
If you are a teen, your parents may be disappointed, and encourage you to terminate the pregnancy. The father might feel similarly, particularly if you are not in a committed relationship. Conversely, friends and family may encourage you to become a mother, despite the fact that you don’t feel ready. However well-intentioned the advice may be, it is critical that you understand that only you will have to live with the consequences of your actions. Therefore, your ultimate decision should be one you are comfortable with. Those who are truly supportive of you will eventually understand.
To that end, you may want to consider seeking counseling to help sort through your feelings. It is also a good idea to keep a journal, so that you can gain better perspective on your emotions. It is important not to rush into a decision.
In addition, you should consider the following questions while evaluating your options:
- What will your, and your child’s life look like after each decision? Do you feel comfortable with these outcomes?
- What are your goals for the next five years? How would each of these choices affect these goals?
- What kind of person do you want to be? Which of these decisions can best help you to achieve this?
Choice 1: Becoming a Parent
If asked, most parents would describe their experiences with raising their children as both the most rewarding and challenging of their lives. Indeed, watching and guiding your child as she grows is a truly incomparable experience. However, without the right support, all of the otherwise joyous moments of parenting can easily become burdensome.
Consider these questions when thinking of becoming a parent:
What is my relationship like with the father?
- Is he someone I would consider marrying?
- Is he someone who shares my values and beliefs?
- Could we coparent in a way that would be beneficial to our child?
- What kind of support (financial, emotional, physical) could he provide?
- Could I live with my family?
- Would my family support me (financially, childcare)?
- Would they be willing to share responsibilities?
How could I work to achieve my goals while continuing to be a mother to my child?
Choice 2: Adoption
For some, adoption may seem like a satisfying compromise between terminating a pregnancy and becoming a parent. However, there is a lot to consider when it comes to putting your child up for adoption, both in the short and long-term. Some questions to be considered include:
- Would I choose an open or closed adoption? Which one would be more conducive to providing the best environment for my child?
- What type of family do I want my child to grow up in?
- Is carrying the pregnancy to term realistic in terms of its emotional and physical effects?
It is also important to be aware that though the option to choose to become a parent is for the most part still available during the pregnancy, most adoption centers will require your decision to be made when the child is six months old.
Choice 3: Abortion
Choosing to have an abortion is a very personal and often emotional decision. It is important that whatever your ultimate choice may be, you make it knowingly and for the right reasons. In order to do this, you will want to consider the following questions:
- Am I aware of all the potential risks, as well as what the actual procedure entails?
- What are my state’s laws?
- Is there anyone pressuring me to have an abortion?
- What were my opinions on abortion prior to becoming pregnant?
- Have I been screened for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?
- Have I talked with a counselor and/or someone who has been through an abortion about the potential emotional effects of the procedure?
In the end, it is important that you make your decision in the most informed manner possible. By considering all your options carefully, you can ensure that your ultimate choice will be one that you can live with. After all, in the end, it will only be you who will.
Sex in the New Testament
Sex in the New Testament
God's Word for Singles
The Judeo-Christian Bible is the cornerstone of our society's values and beliefs. It is a complex book, written in several languages, spanning thousands of years. The bible is used by many religious groups and sects to support a variety of viewpoints. It is sometimes hard to understand exactly what the Bible is saying and how it applies to our lives today. Therefore it is critical to pray for guidance and wisdom before embarking any study of the scriptures. Students of the Bible are also encouraged to consult pastors, Bible scholars, and reputable commentaries to help elucidate these important mysteries.
The scriptures were not written in English, so not all scholars agree on the best way interpret the Bible. If you look in a Greek dictionary to find the meanings of the original Greek words for "fornication" or "sexual immorality" ("porneia") you will find that premarital sex is sometimes included in the definitions for those Greek words and sometimes not. In the Bible, "sexual immorality" encompasses adultery, prostitution, idolatry, rape, pedophilia, and other practices as well. Although premarital sex does not receive the specific, strong condemnation in the Bible that adultery does, most scholars believe it was intended to be included under the catch-all word "porneia."
Guidelines for Singles
The apostle Paul encouraged a lifestyle of abstinence to facilitate a Christ-like life. For those unable to remain sexually abstinent, he encouraged marriage.
[1] ...It is good for a man not to marry. [2] But since there is so much immorality, each man should have his own wife, and each woman her own husband. [3] The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband. [4] The wife's body does not belong to her alone but also to her husband. In the same way, the husband's body does not belong to him alone but also to his wife. [5] Do not deprive each other except by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control. [6] I say this as a concession, not as a command. [7] I wish that all men were as I am. But each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that.
[8] Now to the unmarried and the widows I say: It is good for them to stay unmarried, as I am. [9] But if they cannot control themselves, they should marry, for it is better to marry than to burn with passion.
Source: 1 Corinthians 7: 1-9. New International Version.
Marriage or Celibacy?
[32] I would like you to be free from concern. An unmarried man is concerned about the Lord's affairs--how he can please the Lord. [33] But a married man is concerned about the affairs of this world--how he can please his wife-- [34] and his interests are divided. An unmarried woman or virgin is concerned about the Lord's affairs: Her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit. But a married woman is concerned about the affairs of this world--how she can please her husband. [35] I am saying this for your own good, not to restrict you, but that you may live in a right way in undivided devotion to the Lord. [36] If anyone thinks he is acting improperly toward the virgin he is engaged to, and if she is getting along in years and he feels he ought to marry, he should do as he wants. He is not sinning. They should get married. [37] But the man who has settled the matter in his own mind, who is under no compulsion but has control over his own will, and who has made up his mind not to marry the virgin--this man also does the right thing. [38] So then, he who marries the virgin does right, but he who does not marry her does even better.
Source: 1 Corinthians 7: 32-38. New International Version.
Sexual Conduct
[13] Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. [14] Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.
Source: Romans 13:13-14. New International Version.
[12] "Everything is permissible for me"--but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible for me"--but I will not be mastered by anything. [13] "Food for the stomach and the stomach for food"--but God will destroy them both. The body is not meant for sexual immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. [14] By his power God raised the Lord from the dead, and he will raise us also. [15] Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ himself? Shall I then take the members of Christ and unite them with a prostitute? Never! [16] Do you not know that he who unites himself with a prostitute is one with her in body? For it is said, "The two will become one flesh." [17] But he who unites himself with the Lord is one with him in spirit. [18] Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. [19] Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; [20] you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.
Source: 1 Corinthians 6: 12-20. New International Version.
[3] But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. [4] Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.
Source: Ephesians 5: 3-4. New International Version.
[3] It is God's will that you should be sanctified: [4] that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control his own body in a way that is holy and honorable, [5] not in passionate lust like the heathen, who do not know God;
Source: 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5. New International Version.
What about Pornography?
[27] Jesus said, "You have heard that is was said of old, 'You shall not commit adultery.' But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart."
Source: Matthew 5: 27-28. New International Version.
God's Word for Singles
The Judeo-Christian Bible is the cornerstone of our society's values and beliefs. It is a complex book, written in several languages, spanning thousands of years. The bible is used by many religious groups and sects to support a variety of viewpoints. It is sometimes hard to understand exactly what the Bible is saying and how it applies to our lives today. Therefore it is critical to pray for guidance and wisdom before embarking any study of the scriptures. Students of the Bible are also encouraged to consult pastors, Bible scholars, and reputable commentaries to help elucidate these important mysteries.
The scriptures were not written in English, so not all scholars agree on the best way interpret the Bible. If you look in a Greek dictionary to find the meanings of the original Greek words for "fornication" or "sexual immorality" ("porneia") you will find that premarital sex is sometimes included in the definitions for those Greek words and sometimes not. In the Bible, "sexual immorality" encompasses adultery, prostitution, idolatry, rape, pedophilia, and other practices as well. Although premarital sex does not receive the specific, strong condemnation in the Bible that adultery does, most scholars believe it was intended to be included under the catch-all word "porneia."
Guidelines for Singles
The apostle Paul encouraged a lifestyle of abstinence to facilitate a Christ-like life. For those unable to remain sexually abstinent, he encouraged marriage.
[1] ...It is good for a man not to marry. [2] But since there is so much immorality, each man should have his own wife, and each woman her own husband. [3] The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband. [4] The wife's body does not belong to her alone but also to her husband. In the same way, the husband's body does not belong to him alone but also to his wife. [5] Do not deprive each other except by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control. [6] I say this as a concession, not as a command. [7] I wish that all men were as I am. But each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that.
[8] Now to the unmarried and the widows I say: It is good for them to stay unmarried, as I am. [9] But if they cannot control themselves, they should marry, for it is better to marry than to burn with passion.
Source: 1 Corinthians 7: 1-9. New International Version.
Marriage or Celibacy?
[32] I would like you to be free from concern. An unmarried man is concerned about the Lord's affairs--how he can please the Lord. [33] But a married man is concerned about the affairs of this world--how he can please his wife-- [34] and his interests are divided. An unmarried woman or virgin is concerned about the Lord's affairs: Her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit. But a married woman is concerned about the affairs of this world--how she can please her husband. [35] I am saying this for your own good, not to restrict you, but that you may live in a right way in undivided devotion to the Lord. [36] If anyone thinks he is acting improperly toward the virgin he is engaged to, and if she is getting along in years and he feels he ought to marry, he should do as he wants. He is not sinning. They should get married. [37] But the man who has settled the matter in his own mind, who is under no compulsion but has control over his own will, and who has made up his mind not to marry the virgin--this man also does the right thing. [38] So then, he who marries the virgin does right, but he who does not marry her does even better.
Source: 1 Corinthians 7: 32-38. New International Version.
Sexual Conduct
[13] Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. [14] Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.
Source: Romans 13:13-14. New International Version.
[12] "Everything is permissible for me"--but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible for me"--but I will not be mastered by anything. [13] "Food for the stomach and the stomach for food"--but God will destroy them both. The body is not meant for sexual immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. [14] By his power God raised the Lord from the dead, and he will raise us also. [15] Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ himself? Shall I then take the members of Christ and unite them with a prostitute? Never! [16] Do you not know that he who unites himself with a prostitute is one with her in body? For it is said, "The two will become one flesh." [17] But he who unites himself with the Lord is one with him in spirit. [18] Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. [19] Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; [20] you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.
Source: 1 Corinthians 6: 12-20. New International Version.
[3] But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. [4] Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.
Source: Ephesians 5: 3-4. New International Version.
[3] It is God's will that you should be sanctified: [4] that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control his own body in a way that is holy and honorable, [5] not in passionate lust like the heathen, who do not know God;
Source: 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5. New International Version.
What about Pornography?
[27] Jesus said, "You have heard that is was said of old, 'You shall not commit adultery.' But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart."
Source: Matthew 5: 27-28. New International Version.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Herbal Abortion
Herbal Abortifacients
Though touted as natural ways to do-it-yourself, such herbs are powerful drugs with potentially fatal consequences. Unregulated by the FDA, herbal abortifacients can vary in potency and effect. Pennyroyal, Black or Blue Cohosh and other similar herbs are toxic in excess and can easily overtax the liver and kidneys, causing headaches, extreme nausea, bleeding, or even death. Women at particular risk are those with high blood pressure, epilepsy, allergies, diabetes, liver, heart or kidney problems, an IUD or recent PID (pelvic inflammatory disease), and women taking other drugs as these may aggravate existing medical problems or dangerously alter the way the herbs are intended to work. Never take an herbal abortifacient.
Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)
Abortifacient. The level where a miscarriage can be expected to be induced is about at the same level that other effects, including liver damage, convulsions, coma, death, can occur in the mother. At lower doses, birth defects might be a likely outcome. The tea has too little of the active ingredient to be likely to induce abortion, although there is a strong caution concerning liver damage or effects on pregnancy and fetal development even with the tea.
Source: Herbal Nexus
While pennyroyal tea may safely stimulate mild increase in menstrual flow, the effects of the oil are very different. When employed to induce abortion the effects of pennyroyal oil are extremely dangerous and can be lethal. In one case, despite immediate emergency hospital treatment, an expectant mother died within hours of consuming just two tablespoonfuls of pennyroyal oil in an attempt to initiate self-abortion. Other cases have resulted in coma and convulsions after consuming much smaller amounts of this extremely toxic oil.
Toxic Herb Sometimes Used as Abortifacient
Doctors and herbalists say they are "concerned" about the "increased interest" in the herb called pennyroyal as a "natural" abortion method. Pennyroyal's reputation as an abortifacient makes it a "more appealing alternative to an operation at a clinic." Bastyr University botanical medicine chair Lise Alschuler: "Pennyroyal oil has a long folk history as an abortifacient. It isn't really. In most cases, it fails to induce abortion. What women are doing in these cases is creating such high toxicity that their own body is unable to sustain the pregnancy. ... If pennyroyal oil is to work as an abortifacient, it's going to work because it's poisoning the mother."
Eastside Hospital obstetrician-gynecologist Dr. Sandra Sultan treated a woman who said she drank pennyroyal tea "three times a day for a week to end a six-week pregnancy." Sultan: "Within hours after I first saw her, she was bleeding from every orifice. I've never seen anything like it." The woman then went into kidney and liver failure and was in a coma for weeks. Sultan says she is now recovering, "but may still need treatment for potential neurological damage from bleeding in the brain." Sultan says the woman still required a surgical abortion. Those who sell herbs say "education ... is key to using natural remedies."
Herbalist Eric Pollard said pennyroyal oil is a "highly toxic oil, used mostly as a pesticide." It can kill "if less than a teaspoon is ingested." Pollard: "When we sell the pennyroyal oil, we make it very clear that this is not for internal use." FDA Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition spokesperson Judy Folke said the agency has listed pennyroyal as a "flavoring." Folke said the FDA can take action about pennyroyal "only if the agency can prove that the herbal product can cause harm when taken as recommended, which is difficult to do."
Source: AP/SEATTLE POST-INTELLIGENCER,10/27/96
Blue Cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides)
Native Americans are believed to have used blue cohosh flowers to induce labor and menstruation. Large amounts of blue cohosh can cause nausea, headaches, and high blood pressure. Blue cohosh should only be used under medical supervision and in limited amounts. It is unsafe in pregnancy, except with skilled professional guidance.
Source: Mother Nature's Health Encyclopedia
Herbal Abortion can Kill
According to pharmacist, Karen L. Brauer M.S., R.Ph., "There are many different drugs and herbs a woman can use to abort a baby, if she doesn't mind the risk of poisioning herself. There is no one to blame or sue if a home abortion goes bad. Doses and potency of herbs are variable. Bleeding out in an unsupervised setting is a common problem with do-it-yourself abortions. A slow chemical abortion can be even more traumatic emotionally than a surgical procedure."
Though touted as natural ways to do-it-yourself, such herbs are powerful drugs with potentially fatal consequences. Unregulated by the FDA, herbal abortifacients can vary in potency and effect. Pennyroyal, Black or Blue Cohosh and other similar herbs are toxic in excess and can easily overtax the liver and kidneys, causing headaches, extreme nausea, bleeding, or even death. Women at particular risk are those with high blood pressure, epilepsy, allergies, diabetes, liver, heart or kidney problems, an IUD or recent PID (pelvic inflammatory disease), and women taking other drugs as these may aggravate existing medical problems or dangerously alter the way the herbs are intended to work. Never take an herbal abortifacient.
Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)
Abortifacient. The level where a miscarriage can be expected to be induced is about at the same level that other effects, including liver damage, convulsions, coma, death, can occur in the mother. At lower doses, birth defects might be a likely outcome. The tea has too little of the active ingredient to be likely to induce abortion, although there is a strong caution concerning liver damage or effects on pregnancy and fetal development even with the tea.
Source: Herbal Nexus
While pennyroyal tea may safely stimulate mild increase in menstrual flow, the effects of the oil are very different. When employed to induce abortion the effects of pennyroyal oil are extremely dangerous and can be lethal. In one case, despite immediate emergency hospital treatment, an expectant mother died within hours of consuming just two tablespoonfuls of pennyroyal oil in an attempt to initiate self-abortion. Other cases have resulted in coma and convulsions after consuming much smaller amounts of this extremely toxic oil.
Toxic Herb Sometimes Used as Abortifacient
Doctors and herbalists say they are "concerned" about the "increased interest" in the herb called pennyroyal as a "natural" abortion method. Pennyroyal's reputation as an abortifacient makes it a "more appealing alternative to an operation at a clinic." Bastyr University botanical medicine chair Lise Alschuler: "Pennyroyal oil has a long folk history as an abortifacient. It isn't really. In most cases, it fails to induce abortion. What women are doing in these cases is creating such high toxicity that their own body is unable to sustain the pregnancy. ... If pennyroyal oil is to work as an abortifacient, it's going to work because it's poisoning the mother."
Eastside Hospital obstetrician-gynecologist Dr. Sandra Sultan treated a woman who said she drank pennyroyal tea "three times a day for a week to end a six-week pregnancy." Sultan: "Within hours after I first saw her, she was bleeding from every orifice. I've never seen anything like it." The woman then went into kidney and liver failure and was in a coma for weeks. Sultan says she is now recovering, "but may still need treatment for potential neurological damage from bleeding in the brain." Sultan says the woman still required a surgical abortion. Those who sell herbs say "education ... is key to using natural remedies."
Herbalist Eric Pollard said pennyroyal oil is a "highly toxic oil, used mostly as a pesticide." It can kill "if less than a teaspoon is ingested." Pollard: "When we sell the pennyroyal oil, we make it very clear that this is not for internal use." FDA Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition spokesperson Judy Folke said the agency has listed pennyroyal as a "flavoring." Folke said the FDA can take action about pennyroyal "only if the agency can prove that the herbal product can cause harm when taken as recommended, which is difficult to do."
Source: AP/SEATTLE POST-INTELLIGENCER,10/27/96
Blue Cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides)
Native Americans are believed to have used blue cohosh flowers to induce labor and menstruation. Large amounts of blue cohosh can cause nausea, headaches, and high blood pressure. Blue cohosh should only be used under medical supervision and in limited amounts. It is unsafe in pregnancy, except with skilled professional guidance.
Source: Mother Nature's Health Encyclopedia
Herbal Abortion can Kill
According to pharmacist, Karen L. Brauer M.S., R.Ph., "There are many different drugs and herbs a woman can use to abort a baby, if she doesn't mind the risk of poisioning herself. There is no one to blame or sue if a home abortion goes bad. Doses and potency of herbs are variable. Bleeding out in an unsupervised setting is a common problem with do-it-yourself abortions. A slow chemical abortion can be even more traumatic emotionally than a surgical procedure."
Psychological Effects of Abortion
Psychological Effects of Abortion
Emotional Aftermath
It is normal to mourn after the loss of a pregnancy, regardless of the reason for the loss. In the case of an abortion this may be particularly difficult because the abortion may have been freely chosen to resolve other problems. Most women feel some relief immediately after the abortion procedure, though there is often sadness as well.
Natural hormonal changes related to pregnancy can cause a woman to feel more emotional than usual. Post-abortive women may experience a variety of feelings, including sadness, anger, regret, guilt, or even numbness.
Women who have experienced abortion often report symptoms typical of depressive and anxiety disorders, such as sleeplessness, tearfulness, anxiety, hopelessness, irritability, and an inability to concentrate. These problems can be confounded by relationship difficulties that are often both a cause and effect of the abortion decision. When a pregnancy loss occurs in secret, this can prevent others from offering the support and guidance needed to navigate this stressful time.
Post-Abortion Syndrome
Although many women experience these problems for only a short period, many others have emotional difficulties for a long period after the abortion. These may manifest as clinical depression, an anxiety disorder, substance abuse, an eating disorder, or sexual difficulties. Women who already have problems such as these before an abortion may have a worsening of symptoms as a result of the abortion. Such difficulties can last for months or even years.
In addition to these reactions, other symptoms seem to be unique to post-abortive women. These include avoidance of babies, fear of future pregnancies, or a quick attempt to become pregnant again to create an "atonement child" to replace the one lost by abortion. Women may also have flashbacks and nightmares about the abortion. This constellation of symptoms is sometimes called "post-abortion syndrome" (PAS). PAS can be successfully treated via individual or group counseling. Most pregnancy resource centers offer such counseling or can provide a referral.
Prevent Post-Abortion Distress
Pre-abortion counseling is critical when considering pregnancy options. Many specialists feel that all pregnant women would benefit from counseling of some sort, and an abortion decision involves unique issues that require more a careful examination. Counseling can help identify feelings and motivation for choosing abortion, which can reduce the risk of having problems months or years later. Contact your local pregnancy resource center for free confidential counseling or a referral.
Emotional Aftermath
It is normal to mourn after the loss of a pregnancy, regardless of the reason for the loss. In the case of an abortion this may be particularly difficult because the abortion may have been freely chosen to resolve other problems. Most women feel some relief immediately after the abortion procedure, though there is often sadness as well.
Natural hormonal changes related to pregnancy can cause a woman to feel more emotional than usual. Post-abortive women may experience a variety of feelings, including sadness, anger, regret, guilt, or even numbness.
Women who have experienced abortion often report symptoms typical of depressive and anxiety disorders, such as sleeplessness, tearfulness, anxiety, hopelessness, irritability, and an inability to concentrate. These problems can be confounded by relationship difficulties that are often both a cause and effect of the abortion decision. When a pregnancy loss occurs in secret, this can prevent others from offering the support and guidance needed to navigate this stressful time.
Post-Abortion Syndrome
Although many women experience these problems for only a short period, many others have emotional difficulties for a long period after the abortion. These may manifest as clinical depression, an anxiety disorder, substance abuse, an eating disorder, or sexual difficulties. Women who already have problems such as these before an abortion may have a worsening of symptoms as a result of the abortion. Such difficulties can last for months or even years.
In addition to these reactions, other symptoms seem to be unique to post-abortive women. These include avoidance of babies, fear of future pregnancies, or a quick attempt to become pregnant again to create an "atonement child" to replace the one lost by abortion. Women may also have flashbacks and nightmares about the abortion. This constellation of symptoms is sometimes called "post-abortion syndrome" (PAS). PAS can be successfully treated via individual or group counseling. Most pregnancy resource centers offer such counseling or can provide a referral.
Prevent Post-Abortion Distress
Pre-abortion counseling is critical when considering pregnancy options. Many specialists feel that all pregnant women would benefit from counseling of some sort, and an abortion decision involves unique issues that require more a careful examination. Counseling can help identify feelings and motivation for choosing abortion, which can reduce the risk of having problems months or years later. Contact your local pregnancy resource center for free confidential counseling or a referral.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Choosing an Abortion Provider
Choosing an Abortion Provider
12 Important Alerts
If you are considering an abortion, you want to get the best care possible. But any doctor can put out a shingle and claim to be a qualified practitioner. Some states don't even require special training or a medical license. But how can you tell the quacks from the professionals? Here are some things to look for.
12 Important Alerts
If you are considering an abortion, you want to get the best care possible. But any doctor can put out a shingle and claim to be a qualified practitioner. Some states don't even require special training or a medical license. But how can you tell the quacks from the professionals? Here are some things to look for.
- Beware of clinic workers who try to rush you into a quick decision. This will be one of the most important decisions you will ever make. Take some time to think it over and seriously consider your other options. A few days of consideration will not limit your choices.
- Beware of clinics that offer counseling but promote abortion as the only workable choice. The "counselors" have probably been trained to sell you an abortion and are not looking after your best interests. Such persons may try to make pregnancy sound frightening. A fair-minded counselor will help you explore all of your choices.
- Beware of abortion clinics that are stuffed with clients. They are probably performing the abortions "assembly line" style on particular days of the week. The doctor will not take the time to get to know you, your specific situation, and your health concerns. Getting an abortion from a sub-standard facility can leave you with an infection, maimed, or worse. (One abortion facility was found to be reusing the disposable plastic cannulas used for suctioning out the uterus.)
- Make sure that your abortion is being performed by a board-certified physician who has completed a residency in obstetrics and gynecology, not a nurse or other clinic personnel. Some psychiatrists and ear, nose and throat specialists have been known to perform abortions, as well as some people with no medical training at all.
- Make sure your doctor has admitting privileges at a nearby hospital. If something goes wrong, you want to know that you'll be rushed to a place that can give you adequate care.
- Beware of clinics which do not give you a frank discussion of your health risks. Common problems include pain and infection. Less common but more serious risks include infertility, hemorrhaging, and anesthetic complications. Some clinics will have patients sign disclaimers, refusing responsibility if something goes wrong.
- Make sure the clinician takes a detailed health history. There are many important factors that can affect the safety of the procedure for you, including past pregnancies, RH factor, etc. If the abortion will be done non-surgically, then any history of circulatory disorders or heart trouble is crucial.
- Ask what you should do if you have any complications from the abortion. Some clinics will urge you not to go to the hospital or to your regular doctor if you have problems because they don't want anyone to know they have botched your abortion.
- Ask if there are any lawsuits pending against the clinic. Ask if any of the clinic doctors have been implicated of any wrongdoing. One abortionist in Massachusetts was permitted to continue practicing, despite having molested one of his minor patients and other wrongdoings.
- Beware of clinics that won't show you the ultrasound of your unborn child. Some clinics have performed abortions on women who weren't even pregnant. The clinician should be able to show you the fetal heartbeat on the sonogram. (Many abortion clinics have the ultrasound screen facing away from the patient.)
- If you are a teen, beware of clinics that don't want to involve your parents in the abortion decision. They may tell you that your parents don't need to know, or offer to help you get a "judicial bypass" if necessary. Your parents care about your health, and though they may be angry, they are responsible for looking out for your best interests. If you fear violence or other abuse from your parents, your counselor should be helping you find a safe home. A quick and secret abortion will do nothing to change your abusive situation.
- Beware of clinicians who pressure you into getting a tubal ligation especially if you are young, poor, or a minority. They may tell you that you can get it reversed later, but it should be considered permanent. Sterilization abuse is a well-documented phenomenon, and some women are particularly vulnerable to this type of coercion after a trying pregnancy or abortion.
Before Choosing Abortion
Before Choosing Abortion
Some Important Considerations
If you are pregnant and planning an abortion, it's important to evaluate why you are making this decision as well as the consequences to your choice. Below are some of the most common reasons women choose abortion with a response to consider.
My parents will kill me if they find out.
Yes, your parents will be upset and disappointed, but they will probably not kill you. After the initial shock, parents of pregnant young women usually come to terms with the situation, later becoming an invaluable source of support. Usually we see that the grandparents-to-be are excited about the baby as the due date approaches. If you are afraid to tell your parents, a counselor from your local pregnancy resource center can work with you to determine the best way to break the news.
If you decide not to tell your parents, our experience has been that the parents usually find out anyway. In these situations, mothers especially are saddened that they weren't given the opportunity to support their daughter when she most needed it.
You don't understand. They'll kick me out of the house!
If your parents really do kick you out, your pregnancy resource center can help you find another place to stay while you are expecting. Some centers have a registry of families who have volunteered to house pregnant girls as needed. There are also many fully equipped maternity homes with young women staying there who are in your same situation. The maternity home will assist you with prenatal care, parenting education, counseling, and many other needs you may have. Contact our center for a referral to a home near you.
My parents are forcing me to have an abortion.
Legally, no one can force you to have an abortion. In fact, forcing a minor to have an abortion is child abuse. If you tell the doctor that someone else is forcing you into this decision, he or she will not perform the abortion.
My boyfriend will leave me if I have this baby.
Your boyfriend is just as responsible for the pregnancy as you are. It takes two to make a baby, so his responsibility does not end just because he doesn't want to deal with the situation anymore. If he is going to leave you just because you want to give your unborn child a chance at life, it's questionable whether he loved you at all. He is treating you as no more than an object for his sexual needs, rather than a woman who is rightfully concerned about the effects of abortion on herself and her child. You may be better off without someone like that in your life right now. Either way, he is still legally required to pay child support after the baby is born. More on a Father's Legal Rights & Responsibilities.
I'm so embarrassed! What will everyone think?
If you are unmarried, you may fear that others will judge you for having a child out of wedlock. But there are many single parents today, some divorced and some never married. Years ago this was a real concern, but today the stigma attached to single parenthood is far reduced. In fact, many metropolitan school districts, like Los Angeles, include publicly funded high schools especially for pregnant and parenting students.
I've got my whole life ahead of me. A baby doesn't fit into my plans.
If you are ever planning on having children, one thing you will come to understand is that there is usually never an ideal time to have a baby. No matter when you decide to have a child there will be trade-offs and sacrifices to make. It's impossible to predict the future. Many couples wait a very long time to start their families, only to find later that their circumstances never became ideal.
I'm not ready to be a mother.
It is true that parenthood requires more responsibility than single life, but if you are pregnant you are already a mother. You are being responsible for the child inside of you by the way you treat your body now. The real question is, "How do I treat this child that I have already participated in creating?"
What's the big deal? It's not a baby yet.
Although the unborn child does not have legal rights under the law, the fetus is very alive. By the sixth week of pregnancy the heart has started beating. By eight weeks brain waves can be measured. By twelve weeks the child can and does cry, though silently. By sixteen weeks the baby's movements can be felt by the mother. Many women bond with their unborn children long before they are born and feel a great sense of loss after an abortion. More about the development of the unborn child.
I don't want to end up poor and on welfare. I need to finish my education.
Having a baby does not have to mean that you will end up as a welfare mother, even if you are poor and single. Although it may be more difficult to continue your studies while you are caring for an infant, many women complete their educations and go on to have fulfilling and exciting careers even while doubling as mothers. Many find that having a child increases one's motivation to succeed. Organizations like Nurturing Network (1-800-TNN-4MOM) exist solely to help students and aspiring professional women complete their goals while facing an unplanned pregnancy. Our experience has been that a woman's motivation and self-esteem determine her ability to do well, not an unplanned pregnancy.
An abortion seems so much easier than pregnancy. I just want to get this over with.
The abortion procedure is quick, but the effects can last a lifetime. Abortion can leave you emotionally impacted for years. In our experience, common post-abortion symptoms include depression, nightmares, guilt, regret, avoidance of babies, and even self-destructive behaviors. The difficulties usually get worse over time and not better. Most dating relationships do not survive an abortion as the experience drives the couple further apart. Some women are physically damaged from the abortion, and a few are even left permanently infertile. In our center we have spoken to women who have almost bled to death after what was supposed to be a safe, simple procedure. If this is your first pregnancy, aborting can double your risk of developing breast cancer; multiple abortions can increase your risk of breast cancer three-fold.
I don't have any medical insurance.
It's not too late to get coverage for your prenatal care and delivery. Most college students are covered for pregnancy under their university health plans. If you are unemployed, a high-school student, or otherwise have little income, you will most likely qualify for a state-subsidized medical plan for low-income women and children. You may even be able to obtain private insurance if you apply early in pregnancy. If you are not a U.S. citizen, there are still some public funds you may be able to access. Please call your local pregnancy resource center to discuss your options.
I can't afford a baby.
Babies can cost as much as parents are willing to spend. Much of our society focuses on having numerous possessions for ourselves and children, but material things do not create a loving family. After you look back on your life, those things which you value the most will not be the possessions you spent a lot of money on, but rather your children and relationships. It's more important to invest in the new life inside you than all the things you think you and your baby will need.
Having a baby will increase your budget, however, regardless of how thrifty you are. For this reason, most pregnancy resource centers offer maternity clothes, baby clothes, and baby equipment to any woman who needs it at no charge. Programs like WIC help women and their children obtain healthy foods at no cost. Also, you can save a tremendous amount of money by purchasing baby furniture second hand. Relatives are often eager to buy infant clothes and other goods, especially if this is the first baby in the family for a long time.
The doctor said that there might be something wrong with the baby.
While most prenatal tests can reasonably predict a problem, they don't usually give insight as to the severity of the problem. The problem may be very minor. Sometimes such tests are wrong and the child is completely healthy. And even if the disorder is severe, the value of a human being is not dependent on the health or attractiveness of that individual. Handicapped children deserve a chance at life just as anyone else. A disabled child is still able to love and be loved, and to make a special contribution to your family. Depending on your outlook, this child can be a blessing to you and others. You will probably need support to continue your pregnancy under such circumstances. Call our center for a referral to organizations made up of parents who have continued pregnancies under similar circumstances.
Nonetheless, if you feel unable to raise a child with special needs, there are adoption agencies which can place such children in loving homes. Call a pregnancy resource center near you to discuss your situation.
I just had a baby. I can't have another one right now.
If you have just recently given birth, it can be a tremendous shock to find that you are pregnant again. But having just been pregnant, you can understand more than anyone just how fantastic it is to have a small child developing and growing within you. You've experienced the miracle of life before; to extinguish this life now is hard to imagine. Two babies close together is a real challenge for even the most experienced mother, but in a few years you will find that the siblings are the best of friends. The children will entertain each other giving you more time later on. Having another baby will be invaluable to the child you have now and will soon be precious to you too.
Everyone around me thinks abortion is the best idea.
Although your friends, relatives, and partner may all feel abortion is the best choice, you are the only one who can make the final decision. You are ultimately responsible for your actions and will have to live with the consequences of your choice. An abortion is never easy to forget--please read some of the feedback from the Westside Pregnancy Resource Center post-abortion mailbox before taking the advice of anyone else.
I wish I could have this baby, but I don't know where to go for help.
If you are facing a crisis pregnancy and are interested in alternatives to abortion help is available. In the United States there are over 3,500 pregnancy centers that exist solely to assist women in your situation. You can speak to a counselor who understands your situation and can offer practical solutions to a problem pregnancy. Visit our unplanned pregnancy resource page to find a pregnancy help center near you.
Some Important Considerations
If you are pregnant and planning an abortion, it's important to evaluate why you are making this decision as well as the consequences to your choice. Below are some of the most common reasons women choose abortion with a response to consider.
- » » My parents will kill me!
- » » I have no place to stay if I have the baby.
- » » I'm being forced to have an abortion.
- » » My partner will leave me.
- » » I'm embarrassed to be a single parent.
- » » This is very bad timing!
- » » I'm not ready to be a mother.
- » » It's not a baby yet.
- » » I don't want to end up poor and on welfare.
- » » An abortion seems easier than pregnancy.
- » » I don't have any medical insurance.
- » » I can't afford a baby.
- » » There might be something wrong with the baby.
- » » I just had a baby.
- » » Everyone else says have the abortion.
- » » I don't know where to go for help.
My parents will kill me if they find out.
Yes, your parents will be upset and disappointed, but they will probably not kill you. After the initial shock, parents of pregnant young women usually come to terms with the situation, later becoming an invaluable source of support. Usually we see that the grandparents-to-be are excited about the baby as the due date approaches. If you are afraid to tell your parents, a counselor from your local pregnancy resource center can work with you to determine the best way to break the news.
If you decide not to tell your parents, our experience has been that the parents usually find out anyway. In these situations, mothers especially are saddened that they weren't given the opportunity to support their daughter when she most needed it.
You don't understand. They'll kick me out of the house!
If your parents really do kick you out, your pregnancy resource center can help you find another place to stay while you are expecting. Some centers have a registry of families who have volunteered to house pregnant girls as needed. There are also many fully equipped maternity homes with young women staying there who are in your same situation. The maternity home will assist you with prenatal care, parenting education, counseling, and many other needs you may have. Contact our center for a referral to a home near you.
My parents are forcing me to have an abortion.
Legally, no one can force you to have an abortion. In fact, forcing a minor to have an abortion is child abuse. If you tell the doctor that someone else is forcing you into this decision, he or she will not perform the abortion.
My boyfriend will leave me if I have this baby.
Your boyfriend is just as responsible for the pregnancy as you are. It takes two to make a baby, so his responsibility does not end just because he doesn't want to deal with the situation anymore. If he is going to leave you just because you want to give your unborn child a chance at life, it's questionable whether he loved you at all. He is treating you as no more than an object for his sexual needs, rather than a woman who is rightfully concerned about the effects of abortion on herself and her child. You may be better off without someone like that in your life right now. Either way, he is still legally required to pay child support after the baby is born. More on a Father's Legal Rights & Responsibilities.
I'm so embarrassed! What will everyone think?
If you are unmarried, you may fear that others will judge you for having a child out of wedlock. But there are many single parents today, some divorced and some never married. Years ago this was a real concern, but today the stigma attached to single parenthood is far reduced. In fact, many metropolitan school districts, like Los Angeles, include publicly funded high schools especially for pregnant and parenting students.
I've got my whole life ahead of me. A baby doesn't fit into my plans.
If you are ever planning on having children, one thing you will come to understand is that there is usually never an ideal time to have a baby. No matter when you decide to have a child there will be trade-offs and sacrifices to make. It's impossible to predict the future. Many couples wait a very long time to start their families, only to find later that their circumstances never became ideal.
I'm not ready to be a mother.
It is true that parenthood requires more responsibility than single life, but if you are pregnant you are already a mother. You are being responsible for the child inside of you by the way you treat your body now. The real question is, "How do I treat this child that I have already participated in creating?"
What's the big deal? It's not a baby yet.
Although the unborn child does not have legal rights under the law, the fetus is very alive. By the sixth week of pregnancy the heart has started beating. By eight weeks brain waves can be measured. By twelve weeks the child can and does cry, though silently. By sixteen weeks the baby's movements can be felt by the mother. Many women bond with their unborn children long before they are born and feel a great sense of loss after an abortion. More about the development of the unborn child.
I don't want to end up poor and on welfare. I need to finish my education.
Having a baby does not have to mean that you will end up as a welfare mother, even if you are poor and single. Although it may be more difficult to continue your studies while you are caring for an infant, many women complete their educations and go on to have fulfilling and exciting careers even while doubling as mothers. Many find that having a child increases one's motivation to succeed. Organizations like Nurturing Network (1-800-TNN-4MOM) exist solely to help students and aspiring professional women complete their goals while facing an unplanned pregnancy. Our experience has been that a woman's motivation and self-esteem determine her ability to do well, not an unplanned pregnancy.
An abortion seems so much easier than pregnancy. I just want to get this over with.
The abortion procedure is quick, but the effects can last a lifetime. Abortion can leave you emotionally impacted for years. In our experience, common post-abortion symptoms include depression, nightmares, guilt, regret, avoidance of babies, and even self-destructive behaviors. The difficulties usually get worse over time and not better. Most dating relationships do not survive an abortion as the experience drives the couple further apart. Some women are physically damaged from the abortion, and a few are even left permanently infertile. In our center we have spoken to women who have almost bled to death after what was supposed to be a safe, simple procedure. If this is your first pregnancy, aborting can double your risk of developing breast cancer; multiple abortions can increase your risk of breast cancer three-fold.
I don't have any medical insurance.
It's not too late to get coverage for your prenatal care and delivery. Most college students are covered for pregnancy under their university health plans. If you are unemployed, a high-school student, or otherwise have little income, you will most likely qualify for a state-subsidized medical plan for low-income women and children. You may even be able to obtain private insurance if you apply early in pregnancy. If you are not a U.S. citizen, there are still some public funds you may be able to access. Please call your local pregnancy resource center to discuss your options.
I can't afford a baby.
Babies can cost as much as parents are willing to spend. Much of our society focuses on having numerous possessions for ourselves and children, but material things do not create a loving family. After you look back on your life, those things which you value the most will not be the possessions you spent a lot of money on, but rather your children and relationships. It's more important to invest in the new life inside you than all the things you think you and your baby will need.
Having a baby will increase your budget, however, regardless of how thrifty you are. For this reason, most pregnancy resource centers offer maternity clothes, baby clothes, and baby equipment to any woman who needs it at no charge. Programs like WIC help women and their children obtain healthy foods at no cost. Also, you can save a tremendous amount of money by purchasing baby furniture second hand. Relatives are often eager to buy infant clothes and other goods, especially if this is the first baby in the family for a long time.
The doctor said that there might be something wrong with the baby.
While most prenatal tests can reasonably predict a problem, they don't usually give insight as to the severity of the problem. The problem may be very minor. Sometimes such tests are wrong and the child is completely healthy. And even if the disorder is severe, the value of a human being is not dependent on the health or attractiveness of that individual. Handicapped children deserve a chance at life just as anyone else. A disabled child is still able to love and be loved, and to make a special contribution to your family. Depending on your outlook, this child can be a blessing to you and others. You will probably need support to continue your pregnancy under such circumstances. Call our center for a referral to organizations made up of parents who have continued pregnancies under similar circumstances.
Nonetheless, if you feel unable to raise a child with special needs, there are adoption agencies which can place such children in loving homes. Call a pregnancy resource center near you to discuss your situation.
I just had a baby. I can't have another one right now.
If you have just recently given birth, it can be a tremendous shock to find that you are pregnant again. But having just been pregnant, you can understand more than anyone just how fantastic it is to have a small child developing and growing within you. You've experienced the miracle of life before; to extinguish this life now is hard to imagine. Two babies close together is a real challenge for even the most experienced mother, but in a few years you will find that the siblings are the best of friends. The children will entertain each other giving you more time later on. Having another baby will be invaluable to the child you have now and will soon be precious to you too.
Everyone around me thinks abortion is the best idea.
Although your friends, relatives, and partner may all feel abortion is the best choice, you are the only one who can make the final decision. You are ultimately responsible for your actions and will have to live with the consequences of your choice. An abortion is never easy to forget--please read some of the feedback from the Westside Pregnancy Resource Center post-abortion mailbox before taking the advice of anyone else.
I wish I could have this baby, but I don't know where to go for help.
If you are facing a crisis pregnancy and are interested in alternatives to abortion help is available. In the United States there are over 3,500 pregnancy centers that exist solely to assist women in your situation. You can speak to a counselor who understands your situation and can offer practical solutions to a problem pregnancy. Visit our unplanned pregnancy resource page to find a pregnancy help center near you.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Abortion Methods
Abortion Methods
Early Abortion
Vacuum Aspiration (6 to 9 weeks): A powerful suction tube is inserted through the cervix and into the uterus. The fetus is torn apart by the force of the suction and sucked into a collection bottle, along with the placenta and amniotic sac. Since the doctor cannot actually see what he is doing, several possible complications can occur, including infection (if any portion of the fetus or placenta remains in the womb), uterine perforation (if the tube punctures the womb) and cervical laceration.
Dilation and Curettage (8 to 16 weeks): A steel loop-shaped blade is inserted into the uterus through the cervix. It is used to scrape clean the walls of the uterus, removing the fetus and placenta. As with the aspiration method described above, the doctor is working blind, and may be followed by suction aspiration. It carries an increased risk of uterine perforation, infection, and serious blood loss.
Mifepristone or RU-486 (5 to 7 weeks):
This drug blocks the action of progesterone, a naturally occurring hormone which sustains the nutritive uterine lining. As this lining withers, the embryo starves to death. Administration of mifepristone is followed 36-48 hours later by misoprostol, a synthetic prostaglandin, which causes uterine contractions that expel the unborn child. Some women will deliver while still at the clinic, while others will do so later, at home or at work. Bleeding can be quite heavy and lasts for an average of nine days. This method of abortion fails 5-10% of the time, and must then be followed by a surgical abortion.
Methotrexate or "M&M" (5 to 9 weeks): Methotrexate is normally used for treatment of certain cancers, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain dermatological conditions. It is not approved for abortions by the FDA. This drug is given by injection; it interferes with the growth process of rapidly dividing cells. Like RU-486, it is followed by misoprostol (hence the "M&M" nickname) to expel the fetus. This method fails at least 4% of the time. Methotrexate can potentially cause serious side effects, including severe anemia, ulcers and bone marrow depression. (See box below)
The medical director of Planned Parenthood of New York, Dr. Hakim Elahi indicated the side effects were so unpredictable he would not use it as an abortion drug in any dose. In a letter to the editors of the New York Times (April 8, 1996, at p. A14), abortion provider Don Sloan warned that methotrexate can produce severe anemias, ulcers, and bone marrow depressions that can be fatal, even at the doses used for abortion and said "many of us in the abortion trade, as I am, are recoiling at the stark irresponsibility of those who are parading this medication in such cavalier fashion."
Source: "Existing Drugs Induced Abortions but Some Warn about Toxicity," Newsday (New York), p. 7, 10/22/1993
Herbal Abortifacients: Though touted as natural ways to do-it-yourself, such herbs are powerful drugs with potentially fatal consequences. Unregulated by the FDA, herbal abortifacients can vary in potency and effect. Pennyroyal, Black or Blue Cohosh and other similar herbs are toxic in excess and can easily overtax the liver and kidneys, causing headaches, extreme nausea, bleeding, or even death. Never take an herbal abortifacient.
D&E (13 to 20+ weeks): In this late term abortion the cervix is dilated, either mechanically or with laminaria. The physician uses forceps to dismember the fetus, which must then be reassembled to confirm that no parts have been left inside. Possible complications include infection, cervical laceration and uterine perforation.
D&X (20 to 32+ weeks): This late in the pregnancy it is very difficult to dismember the fetus in the womb. Therefore the physician begins, but does not complete, a breech (feet first) delivery, taking care to leave the head inside the uterus. The physician then punctures the base of the skull and suctions out the brains. The child dies, the head collapses, and the delivery is completed. This unsafe procedure has been denounced by the American Medical Association as "bad medicine".
Hysterotomy (24 to 38 weeks): The procedure is simply an early Caesarean section. After an incision is made through the abdomen and uterus, the unborn child is lifted out and allowed to die. The risks are the same as for a normal Caesarean section.
Prostaglandin (16 to 38 weeks): This synthetic hormone is administered via injection or suppository. It causes powerful uterine contractions similar to labor. Live births are a common result. Possible risks include convulsions, vomiting, and cardiac arrest.
Digoxin Induction (20 to 32 weeks): To avoid the live birth complication described above, digoxin is first injected into the child's heart, killing it. This is followed by a prostaglandin induction.
Saline (16 to 32+ weeks): A needle is inserted through the abdomen to remove amniotic fluid. A strong salt solution is then injected, which poisons the fetus and badly burns the lungs and skin. The child is usually delivered within 24 hours. This method is rarely used any more, since it can present serious, even fatal risks to the mother.
Early Abortion
Vacuum Aspiration (6 to 9 weeks): A powerful suction tube is inserted through the cervix and into the uterus. The fetus is torn apart by the force of the suction and sucked into a collection bottle, along with the placenta and amniotic sac. Since the doctor cannot actually see what he is doing, several possible complications can occur, including infection (if any portion of the fetus or placenta remains in the womb), uterine perforation (if the tube punctures the womb) and cervical laceration.
Dilation and Curettage (8 to 16 weeks): A steel loop-shaped blade is inserted into the uterus through the cervix. It is used to scrape clean the walls of the uterus, removing the fetus and placenta. As with the aspiration method described above, the doctor is working blind, and may be followed by suction aspiration. It carries an increased risk of uterine perforation, infection, and serious blood loss.
Mifepristone or RU-486 (5 to 7 weeks):
This drug blocks the action of progesterone, a naturally occurring hormone which sustains the nutritive uterine lining. As this lining withers, the embryo starves to death. Administration of mifepristone is followed 36-48 hours later by misoprostol, a synthetic prostaglandin, which causes uterine contractions that expel the unborn child. Some women will deliver while still at the clinic, while others will do so later, at home or at work. Bleeding can be quite heavy and lasts for an average of nine days. This method of abortion fails 5-10% of the time, and must then be followed by a surgical abortion.
Methotrexate or "M&M" (5 to 9 weeks): Methotrexate is normally used for treatment of certain cancers, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain dermatological conditions. It is not approved for abortions by the FDA. This drug is given by injection; it interferes with the growth process of rapidly dividing cells. Like RU-486, it is followed by misoprostol (hence the "M&M" nickname) to expel the fetus. This method fails at least 4% of the time. Methotrexate can potentially cause serious side effects, including severe anemia, ulcers and bone marrow depression. (See box below)
The medical director of Planned Parenthood of New York, Dr. Hakim Elahi indicated the side effects were so unpredictable he would not use it as an abortion drug in any dose. In a letter to the editors of the New York Times (April 8, 1996, at p. A14), abortion provider Don Sloan warned that methotrexate can produce severe anemias, ulcers, and bone marrow depressions that can be fatal, even at the doses used for abortion and said "many of us in the abortion trade, as I am, are recoiling at the stark irresponsibility of those who are parading this medication in such cavalier fashion."
Source: "Existing Drugs Induced Abortions but Some Warn about Toxicity," Newsday (New York), p. 7, 10/22/1993
Herbal Abortifacients: Though touted as natural ways to do-it-yourself, such herbs are powerful drugs with potentially fatal consequences. Unregulated by the FDA, herbal abortifacients can vary in potency and effect. Pennyroyal, Black or Blue Cohosh and other similar herbs are toxic in excess and can easily overtax the liver and kidneys, causing headaches, extreme nausea, bleeding, or even death. Never take an herbal abortifacient.
D&E (13 to 20+ weeks): In this late term abortion the cervix is dilated, either mechanically or with laminaria. The physician uses forceps to dismember the fetus, which must then be reassembled to confirm that no parts have been left inside. Possible complications include infection, cervical laceration and uterine perforation.
D&X (20 to 32+ weeks): This late in the pregnancy it is very difficult to dismember the fetus in the womb. Therefore the physician begins, but does not complete, a breech (feet first) delivery, taking care to leave the head inside the uterus. The physician then punctures the base of the skull and suctions out the brains. The child dies, the head collapses, and the delivery is completed. This unsafe procedure has been denounced by the American Medical Association as "bad medicine".
Hysterotomy (24 to 38 weeks): The procedure is simply an early Caesarean section. After an incision is made through the abdomen and uterus, the unborn child is lifted out and allowed to die. The risks are the same as for a normal Caesarean section.
Prostaglandin (16 to 38 weeks): This synthetic hormone is administered via injection or suppository. It causes powerful uterine contractions similar to labor. Live births are a common result. Possible risks include convulsions, vomiting, and cardiac arrest.
Digoxin Induction (20 to 32 weeks): To avoid the live birth complication described above, digoxin is first injected into the child's heart, killing it. This is followed by a prostaglandin induction.
Saline (16 to 32+ weeks): A needle is inserted through the abdomen to remove amniotic fluid. A strong salt solution is then injected, which poisons the fetus and badly burns the lungs and skin. The child is usually delivered within 24 hours. This method is rarely used any more, since it can present serious, even fatal risks to the mother.
About Abortion
About Abortion
What Is an Abortion?
There are several types of abortions. Doctors may refer to miscarriages or stillbirths as spontaneous abortions which are a result of natural causes, such as illness. After a miscarriage, the physician may suction out the uterus to be sure that nothing is left inside which can cause an infection. More commonly occurring are induced abortions, which are the direct result of a medical procedure intended to end a pregnancy prematurely. These are also called elective abortions, or simply referred to here as an abortion.
Abortions are most commonly performed between the sixth and twelfth week of pregnancy, where conception occurs at week two and birth occurs at week forty. Abortions are also performed routinely up to sixteen weeks and then less often into the later months of pregnancy. Women obtain abortions for a number of reasons, usually having to do with relationship and interpersonal issues, but other concerns like health of the mother, health of the fetus, or finances may factor into the decision.
Abortions may be performed at a hospital, doctor's office, or women's health center, but most take place at abortion clinics -- facilities which specialize in surgical abortion. Most states require that the abortion be performed by a licensed physician, but some do not. In these cases the procedure may be done by a nurse or other clinician.
An abortion may be performed either surgically or medically, via several different techniques. Surgically implies the use of surgical instruments to remove the unborn child or instillations to kill the fetus while still in the uterus. Medically implies the administration of drugs to the pregnant woman to end the pregnancy. In both of these cases it is the death and removal of the fetus, or unborn child, from the womb that causes the pregnancy to end. Abortion, like any surgical procedure, carries a number of health risks which are increasingly more serious with the advancement of the pregnancy.
The unborn child is very alive prior to the abortion procedure, and there is strong evidence that the unborn child can feel pain as early as twelve weeks. The abortion procedure is thought to be painful for the unborn child, as no anesthesia is administered to the fetus. In the case of a surgical abortion, anesthetic is usually administered to the pregnant woman.
The abortion issue is very controversial for a number of reasons. Because the essential component of abortion involves ending the life of an unborn child, many see it as no different than killing a helpless infant. Others see abortion as an issue of personal autonomy, feeling that the rights of the woman outweigh any rights the fetus may have. Presently, the United States government and judaical system agree with this latter perspective, making abortion legally permissible in every state throughout the entire nine months of pregnancy. Nonetheless, many groups are actively trying to make abortion more difficult or altogether illegal. Other groups promote abortion and are actively trying to make the procedure easier and more accessible.
Considering Abortion?
It is the experience of many crisis pregnancy counselors and therapists that elective abortion takes a heavy emotional toll on women. This is because a woman often goes into the decision unaware of the details of the procedure, the development of her unborn child, and how her relationships will be affected by the experience. Although there are women who feel that abortion was their best choice, many others regret the decision. Occasionally we see women who were physically damaged by an abortion, even to the point that their lives were endangered by the procedure.
If you are considering abortion, you are encouraged to examine all aspects of the issue in order to best make an informed choice. You need to feel good about your decision. The more you can learn about abortion as well as alternatives to abortion, the less likely it is that you will make a decision that you will later regret. Contact your local pregnancy center [more about pregnancy centers]. A caring counselor can help you explore all your options.
What Is an Abortion?
There are several types of abortions. Doctors may refer to miscarriages or stillbirths as spontaneous abortions which are a result of natural causes, such as illness. After a miscarriage, the physician may suction out the uterus to be sure that nothing is left inside which can cause an infection. More commonly occurring are induced abortions, which are the direct result of a medical procedure intended to end a pregnancy prematurely. These are also called elective abortions, or simply referred to here as an abortion.
Abortions are most commonly performed between the sixth and twelfth week of pregnancy, where conception occurs at week two and birth occurs at week forty. Abortions are also performed routinely up to sixteen weeks and then less often into the later months of pregnancy. Women obtain abortions for a number of reasons, usually having to do with relationship and interpersonal issues, but other concerns like health of the mother, health of the fetus, or finances may factor into the decision.
Abortions may be performed at a hospital, doctor's office, or women's health center, but most take place at abortion clinics -- facilities which specialize in surgical abortion. Most states require that the abortion be performed by a licensed physician, but some do not. In these cases the procedure may be done by a nurse or other clinician.
An abortion may be performed either surgically or medically, via several different techniques. Surgically implies the use of surgical instruments to remove the unborn child or instillations to kill the fetus while still in the uterus. Medically implies the administration of drugs to the pregnant woman to end the pregnancy. In both of these cases it is the death and removal of the fetus, or unborn child, from the womb that causes the pregnancy to end. Abortion, like any surgical procedure, carries a number of health risks which are increasingly more serious with the advancement of the pregnancy.
The unborn child is very alive prior to the abortion procedure, and there is strong evidence that the unborn child can feel pain as early as twelve weeks. The abortion procedure is thought to be painful for the unborn child, as no anesthesia is administered to the fetus. In the case of a surgical abortion, anesthetic is usually administered to the pregnant woman.
The abortion issue is very controversial for a number of reasons. Because the essential component of abortion involves ending the life of an unborn child, many see it as no different than killing a helpless infant. Others see abortion as an issue of personal autonomy, feeling that the rights of the woman outweigh any rights the fetus may have. Presently, the United States government and judaical system agree with this latter perspective, making abortion legally permissible in every state throughout the entire nine months of pregnancy. Nonetheless, many groups are actively trying to make abortion more difficult or altogether illegal. Other groups promote abortion and are actively trying to make the procedure easier and more accessible.
Considering Abortion?
It is the experience of many crisis pregnancy counselors and therapists that elective abortion takes a heavy emotional toll on women. This is because a woman often goes into the decision unaware of the details of the procedure, the development of her unborn child, and how her relationships will be affected by the experience. Although there are women who feel that abortion was their best choice, many others regret the decision. Occasionally we see women who were physically damaged by an abortion, even to the point that their lives were endangered by the procedure.
If you are considering abortion, you are encouraged to examine all aspects of the issue in order to best make an informed choice. You need to feel good about your decision. The more you can learn about abortion as well as alternatives to abortion, the less likely it is that you will make a decision that you will later regret. Contact your local pregnancy center [more about pregnancy centers]. A caring counselor can help you explore all your options.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Adoption
Adoption
For many women, facing an unplanned pregnancy can leave them feeling scared and confused, unsure about what they should do. While the choice between continuing a pregnancy and having an abortion often weighs heavily on a woman’s mind, a third option may go overlooked. This is the option of adoption.
Adoption Stories
Choosing adoption means carrying your child to term, giving birth and then legally giving your child to another couple who assume all parental rights for the child. While in the past closed and completely private adoptions, whereby the birth mother knew absolutely nothing about who was adopting her child, was the norm, nowadays birth mothers have a choice.
There are generally two types of adoptions a woman can choose between. A closed adoption allows the birth mother to remain anonymous and entrusts a third party to conduct a search for and select the adoptive parents. An open adoption, on the other hand, encourages the birth mother to take an active role in the adoption search for parents.
Closed Adoption
Closed adoption, also known as a private adoption, is usually done through an agency either run by the state (public agencies) or privately. If your child is placed in either a child welfare or foster care system, she will be adopted through a public agency. On the other hand, if you have decided on adoption before the birth of your child, you can work with a private adoption agency that will find adoptive parents for you. While many adoption agencies encourage the birth mother to be active in the adoption process, you can also choose to remain anonymous.
In the United States, women who choose adoption through a private agency can opt to work with a licensed or unlicensed agency. Unlike an unlicensed agency, licensed agencies must adhere to state regulations and standards in order to keep operating. Many women prefer to use a licensed agency because they feel more confident in the quality of service they will receive.
One benefit of working with an agency is that they will handle all legal matters pertaining to the adoption for you. However, be sure to thoroughly read any contracts they provide you with before you sign. Ask questions about any part of any contract that you don’t understand. Put off signing the contract until you feel confident that you properly comprehend the terms of the contract.
Open Adoption
More birth parents, as well as adoptive parents, are choosing to have an open adoption. In this type of adoption, the birth mother takes an active role in choosing the adoptive parents, meeting and interviewing potential couples. Often, the birth mother and adoptive parents are able to form some type of informal relationship and many continue this relationship after the child is born.
If you would like to do an open adoption, there are various ways you can go about the process. As stated before, many private agencies nowadays encourage birth parents to take an active role in the adoption process. However, if you would prefer to not work with an agency, you can conduct your own search for a couple. This is known as an independent adoption. There are many adoption resources that allow you to conduct an adoption parent search through their database of potential couples. To help protect yourself, it is a good idea to enlist the help of a lawyer if you plan to do an independent adoption.
Going down the independent road does not necessarily mean you have to go it alone the entire time. You may choose to do what is known as an "identified adoption" whereby you approach an adoption agency once you have already chosen an adoptive couple. The agency will then take care of the legal issues surrounding the adoption as well as perform a home study on the prospective parents. They can also offer you some counseling to help explain the process better and help you deal with any emotional issues you may be having.
Adoption Laws
Adoption laws tend to vary from country to country. Even within the same country, they can be different from one state to the next. Therefore, it is necessary for you to do some research on just what type of adoption is allowed where you live and what is not. Also, learn when you’re expected to give up your rights to your child and how long of a grace period, if any, you are granted to change your mind.
Typically, a birth mother in the United States relinquishes all parental rights to her child upon birth, which means the adoptive parents can leave the hospital with the child. In Canada, however, there is a mandatory nine-day waiting period before a birth mother can sign any adoption papers. She is then given a further 21 days to change her mind about the adoption.
Emotional Aspects of Adoptions
Deciding on adoption can be an extremely emotional and even devastating decision for some. Many women form a loving bond with their child during pregnancy and already feel emotionally connected to their child even before the child is born. It is normal for you to feel upset, depressed, angry, fearful, and even experience a sense of loss and grief. For some women, having an open adoption and being able to get to know the family who will be raising their child and even receiving periodic photos and updates about their child as they grow up can help relieve some of the distressing emotions. But not for every woman.
If you are considering adoption, take the time to speak with counselors who can help you understand your feelings surrounding the issue better. While adoption can be a wonderful choice for many people, it is still important to take your time in considering this option.
For many women, facing an unplanned pregnancy can leave them feeling scared and confused, unsure about what they should do. While the choice between continuing a pregnancy and having an abortion often weighs heavily on a woman’s mind, a third option may go overlooked. This is the option of adoption.
Adoption Stories
Choosing adoption means carrying your child to term, giving birth and then legally giving your child to another couple who assume all parental rights for the child. While in the past closed and completely private adoptions, whereby the birth mother knew absolutely nothing about who was adopting her child, was the norm, nowadays birth mothers have a choice.
There are generally two types of adoptions a woman can choose between. A closed adoption allows the birth mother to remain anonymous and entrusts a third party to conduct a search for and select the adoptive parents. An open adoption, on the other hand, encourages the birth mother to take an active role in the adoption search for parents.
Closed Adoption
Closed adoption, also known as a private adoption, is usually done through an agency either run by the state (public agencies) or privately. If your child is placed in either a child welfare or foster care system, she will be adopted through a public agency. On the other hand, if you have decided on adoption before the birth of your child, you can work with a private adoption agency that will find adoptive parents for you. While many adoption agencies encourage the birth mother to be active in the adoption process, you can also choose to remain anonymous.
In the United States, women who choose adoption through a private agency can opt to work with a licensed or unlicensed agency. Unlike an unlicensed agency, licensed agencies must adhere to state regulations and standards in order to keep operating. Many women prefer to use a licensed agency because they feel more confident in the quality of service they will receive.
One benefit of working with an agency is that they will handle all legal matters pertaining to the adoption for you. However, be sure to thoroughly read any contracts they provide you with before you sign. Ask questions about any part of any contract that you don’t understand. Put off signing the contract until you feel confident that you properly comprehend the terms of the contract.
Open Adoption
More birth parents, as well as adoptive parents, are choosing to have an open adoption. In this type of adoption, the birth mother takes an active role in choosing the adoptive parents, meeting and interviewing potential couples. Often, the birth mother and adoptive parents are able to form some type of informal relationship and many continue this relationship after the child is born.
If you would like to do an open adoption, there are various ways you can go about the process. As stated before, many private agencies nowadays encourage birth parents to take an active role in the adoption process. However, if you would prefer to not work with an agency, you can conduct your own search for a couple. This is known as an independent adoption. There are many adoption resources that allow you to conduct an adoption parent search through their database of potential couples. To help protect yourself, it is a good idea to enlist the help of a lawyer if you plan to do an independent adoption.
Going down the independent road does not necessarily mean you have to go it alone the entire time. You may choose to do what is known as an "identified adoption" whereby you approach an adoption agency once you have already chosen an adoptive couple. The agency will then take care of the legal issues surrounding the adoption as well as perform a home study on the prospective parents. They can also offer you some counseling to help explain the process better and help you deal with any emotional issues you may be having.
Adoption Laws
Adoption laws tend to vary from country to country. Even within the same country, they can be different from one state to the next. Therefore, it is necessary for you to do some research on just what type of adoption is allowed where you live and what is not. Also, learn when you’re expected to give up your rights to your child and how long of a grace period, if any, you are granted to change your mind.
Typically, a birth mother in the United States relinquishes all parental rights to her child upon birth, which means the adoptive parents can leave the hospital with the child. In Canada, however, there is a mandatory nine-day waiting period before a birth mother can sign any adoption papers. She is then given a further 21 days to change her mind about the adoption.
Emotional Aspects of Adoptions
Deciding on adoption can be an extremely emotional and even devastating decision for some. Many women form a loving bond with their child during pregnancy and already feel emotionally connected to their child even before the child is born. It is normal for you to feel upset, depressed, angry, fearful, and even experience a sense of loss and grief. For some women, having an open adoption and being able to get to know the family who will be raising their child and even receiving periodic photos and updates about their child as they grow up can help relieve some of the distressing emotions. But not for every woman.
If you are considering adoption, take the time to speak with counselors who can help you understand your feelings surrounding the issue better. While adoption can be a wonderful choice for many people, it is still important to take your time in considering this option.
Finding a Pregnancy Center
Pregnancy Help Portal
Pregnant? Think you might be?
No matter what your age, nationality, race, religion, or culture we're here to help. If you are facing a possible unplanned pregnancy, you can contact someone online. A caring counselor will respond to your message via e-mail as soon as possible, usually within 24 hours. Click on a link in your area, below. We care!
Online Crisis Pregnancy Help
Online counselors available in the following states:
Note: These counselors at these sites respond regularly to pregnancy related messages. If you do not get a timely reply, please contact us immediately so that the link can be updated!
Telephone Hotlines for Pregnancy Help
Need to talk to someone now? Call any of these 24 Hour Hotlines:
Optionline / CareNet
1-800-395-4357
Birthright International
1-800-550-4900
National Life Center
1-800-848-LOVE
America's Crisis Pregnancy Helpline
1-800-67-BABY-6
Bethany Christian Services
1-800-Bethany or 1-800-238-4269
Pregnant? Think you might be?
No matter what your age, nationality, race, religion, or culture we're here to help. If you are facing a possible unplanned pregnancy, you can contact someone online. A caring counselor will respond to your message via e-mail as soon as possible, usually within 24 hours. Click on a link in your area, below. We care!
Online Crisis Pregnancy Help
Online counselors available in the following states:
- Nationwide
- Texas
- Southern California (Los Angeles)
- Southern California (San Marcos Area)
- Northern California (urban)
- Northern California (rural)
- Northern California and Oregon
- New York City/Long Island
- North Pennsylvania
- Iowa
- Washington State
Note: These counselors at these sites respond regularly to pregnancy related messages. If you do not get a timely reply, please contact us immediately so that the link can be updated!
Telephone Hotlines for Pregnancy Help
Need to talk to someone now? Call any of these 24 Hour Hotlines:
Optionline / CareNet
1-800-395-4357
Birthright International
1-800-550-4900
National Life Center
1-800-848-LOVE
America's Crisis Pregnancy Helpline
1-800-67-BABY-6
Bethany Christian Services
1-800-Bethany or 1-800-238-4269
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Visiting a Pregnancy Center
Your Visit to a Pregnancy Center
How will I feel about my visit to a Pregnancy Center?
Most women in a crisis pregnancy situation already feel scared and anxious. The pregnancy center counselor will not judge you or make you feel bad about mistakes you may have made. However, the counselor will try to help you learn from your mistakes, and this may involve helping you to reevaluate your current behaviors and relationships.
Most women are relieved to find someone who can answer their questions and lend support and practical help. In fact, 98% of women who have visited a pregnancy resource center felt very positive or somewhat positive about the services they received.
What will the counselor say about abortion?
The counselor will explain fetal development using medical pictures or models. She will want to make sure you understand both the physical risks and emotional difficulties you may face if you choose abortion. She will discuss your reasons for your choice and ask how your choices fit in with your belief system. She will make sure you understand that no one can force you to have an abortion you don't want. If you choose abortion or have had prior abortions, she will give you additional information about post-abortion support groups or counseling.
What will the counselor say about adoption?
The counselor will explain the adoption process and discuss various types of adoption plans. She may also show you some profiles of prospective adoptive parents. She will want to make sure you understand that your partner may have some say in the adoption process but that no one can take your baby by force. She will never pressure you to choose adoption if you are not interested. Crisis pregnancy centers never benefit financially from your choice to make an adoption plan for your baby.
What will the counselor say about single motherhood?
The counselor will explain some of the challenges inherent in single parenting. If you are a student, she will help you find a way to finish high school or college as parent. She will make sure you understand how the crisis pregnancy center can support you in your choice to give birth and educate you about your legal rights as a pregnant woman. She will inform you that your boyfriend is legally responsible to provide child support. If you decide to carry your baby to term, she will make sure you know where to go for affordable prenatal care.
How will I feel about my visit to a Pregnancy Center?
Most women in a crisis pregnancy situation already feel scared and anxious. The pregnancy center counselor will not judge you or make you feel bad about mistakes you may have made. However, the counselor will try to help you learn from your mistakes, and this may involve helping you to reevaluate your current behaviors and relationships.
Most women are relieved to find someone who can answer their questions and lend support and practical help. In fact, 98% of women who have visited a pregnancy resource center felt very positive or somewhat positive about the services they received.
What will the counselor say about abortion?
The counselor will explain fetal development using medical pictures or models. She will want to make sure you understand both the physical risks and emotional difficulties you may face if you choose abortion. She will discuss your reasons for your choice and ask how your choices fit in with your belief system. She will make sure you understand that no one can force you to have an abortion you don't want. If you choose abortion or have had prior abortions, she will give you additional information about post-abortion support groups or counseling.
What will the counselor say about adoption?
The counselor will explain the adoption process and discuss various types of adoption plans. She may also show you some profiles of prospective adoptive parents. She will want to make sure you understand that your partner may have some say in the adoption process but that no one can take your baby by force. She will never pressure you to choose adoption if you are not interested. Crisis pregnancy centers never benefit financially from your choice to make an adoption plan for your baby.
What will the counselor say about single motherhood?
The counselor will explain some of the challenges inherent in single parenting. If you are a student, she will help you find a way to finish high school or college as parent. She will make sure you understand how the crisis pregnancy center can support you in your choice to give birth and educate you about your legal rights as a pregnant woman. She will inform you that your boyfriend is legally responsible to provide child support. If you decide to carry your baby to term, she will make sure you know where to go for affordable prenatal care.
About Pregnancy Centers
About Pregnancy Centers
What is a Pregnancy Center?
Pregnancy centers (also called crisis pregnancy centers or pregnancy resource centers), are agencies staffed with caring individuals who want to help you through this most challenging time in your life. Most centers are supported by donations, but a few are also funded with grants. All services are offered at no cost to you, and once you arrive there is usually no wait to see a counselor. Many centers are medical clinics with a full range of free services. The most common service is free pregnancy tests for anyone experiencing any of the following pregnancy symptoms.
The staff are non-judgmental and most are volunteers who give of their time because they care about you. If there is a pregnancy resource center nearby, no woman has to face this challenge alone.
Why Should I Visit a Pregnancy Center?
The choice you make regarding your pregnancy will have a profound effect on your body, your relationships, your emotional well-being, and countless other aspects of your future. When you visit a pregnancy center, they can offer support, practical help, and options counseling. You owe it to yourself to get all the information and support you can. Since pregnancy resources do not profit from your decision, you don't have to worry about being pressured into making choice before you are ready.
What Kind of Women Visit Pregnancy Centers?
Women of all ages, races, and socio-economic backgrounds avail themselves of the services offered by their local pregnancy centers. This includes women of all faiths or of no religious persuasion, single and married women, pro-choice and pro-life women in equal numbers, poor and wealthy women, students, parents, and many others. One in ten American women have visited a crisis pregnancy center.
Also in this section, you can learn about:
What is a Pregnancy Center?
Pregnancy centers (also called crisis pregnancy centers or pregnancy resource centers), are agencies staffed with caring individuals who want to help you through this most challenging time in your life. Most centers are supported by donations, but a few are also funded with grants. All services are offered at no cost to you, and once you arrive there is usually no wait to see a counselor. Many centers are medical clinics with a full range of free services. The most common service is free pregnancy tests for anyone experiencing any of the following pregnancy symptoms.
The staff are non-judgmental and most are volunteers who give of their time because they care about you. If there is a pregnancy resource center nearby, no woman has to face this challenge alone.
Why Should I Visit a Pregnancy Center?
The choice you make regarding your pregnancy will have a profound effect on your body, your relationships, your emotional well-being, and countless other aspects of your future. When you visit a pregnancy center, they can offer support, practical help, and options counseling. You owe it to yourself to get all the information and support you can. Since pregnancy resources do not profit from your decision, you don't have to worry about being pressured into making choice before you are ready.
What Kind of Women Visit Pregnancy Centers?
Women of all ages, races, and socio-economic backgrounds avail themselves of the services offered by their local pregnancy centers. This includes women of all faiths or of no religious persuasion, single and married women, pro-choice and pro-life women in equal numbers, poor and wealthy women, students, parents, and many others. One in ten American women have visited a crisis pregnancy center.
Also in this section, you can learn about:
- Making a Decision
- Adoption
- The Benefits of Adoption
- Questions to ask Potential Adoptive Parents
- Abortions
- Different Abortion Methods
- Things to consider Before Choosing Abortion
- Emotional issues surrounding abortion
- Choosing an Abortion Provider
- The dangers of Herbal Abortions
- Sex in the New Testament
- Sex Education and You, looking at sex education and unplanned pregnancy
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Prenatal Vitamins
Prenatal Vitamins
Prenatal vitamins are important to take as part of your pregnancy health routine. Not only do they assure that you and your baby are getting a good amount of nutrients, they also assure you that your baby is getting what he or she needs to grow, and they can help prevent birth defects.
In fact, a woman doesn't have to wait until she's pregnant to start taking prenatal vitamins. If you are trying to get pregnant you can start earlier to help prepare your body to support Baby. This is especially so with the case of certain nutrients like folic acid, which are most important early on in the pregnancy. Every woman should make sure she has enough folic acid before a pregnancy starts, because many women don't even realize they are pregnant until after the crucial period where folic acid is most necessary is over.
Nutrients You Need
While this is by no means an exhaustive list of nutrients that pregnant women need, but these are the nutrients that most prenatal vitamins make sure to supplement more than others.
Folate - Important to neural development of the baby. Not enough folate early in pregnancy could lead to neural tube defects. This is available in a synthetic form called folic acid.
Iron - Helps Mom and Baby's blood carry oxygen. Iron may also be important to help prevent anemia in some pregnant women, especially around the second and third trimesters.
Calcium - Important for bone development. Getting enough calcium through a prenatal vitamin that Mom doesn't have to worry about losing her won bone density to support Baby's growth. You will probably have to supplement your calcium intake in more ways than just a prenatal vitamin, however, because calcium is so bulky and you need so much of it, manufacturers can't fit a whole day's worth into a vitamin.
Choosing a Vitamin
Whatever prenatal vitamin you choose, make sure to talk to your doctor first. While you want to make sure to get enough of all necessary vitamins and minerals, overdosing on some nutrients can do just as much harm as good. Your doctor will be able to give you more guidance and recommendations based on your own pregnancy risks and concerns. Pregnant women should also evaulate their diet to make sure they are eating well. See our article with tips for a healthy pregnancy diet.
Prenatal vitamins are important to take as part of your pregnancy health routine. Not only do they assure that you and your baby are getting a good amount of nutrients, they also assure you that your baby is getting what he or she needs to grow, and they can help prevent birth defects.
In fact, a woman doesn't have to wait until she's pregnant to start taking prenatal vitamins. If you are trying to get pregnant you can start earlier to help prepare your body to support Baby. This is especially so with the case of certain nutrients like folic acid, which are most important early on in the pregnancy. Every woman should make sure she has enough folic acid before a pregnancy starts, because many women don't even realize they are pregnant until after the crucial period where folic acid is most necessary is over.
Nutrients You Need
While this is by no means an exhaustive list of nutrients that pregnant women need, but these are the nutrients that most prenatal vitamins make sure to supplement more than others.
Folate - Important to neural development of the baby. Not enough folate early in pregnancy could lead to neural tube defects. This is available in a synthetic form called folic acid.
Iron - Helps Mom and Baby's blood carry oxygen. Iron may also be important to help prevent anemia in some pregnant women, especially around the second and third trimesters.
Calcium - Important for bone development. Getting enough calcium through a prenatal vitamin that Mom doesn't have to worry about losing her won bone density to support Baby's growth. You will probably have to supplement your calcium intake in more ways than just a prenatal vitamin, however, because calcium is so bulky and you need so much of it, manufacturers can't fit a whole day's worth into a vitamin.
Choosing a Vitamin
Whatever prenatal vitamin you choose, make sure to talk to your doctor first. While you want to make sure to get enough of all necessary vitamins and minerals, overdosing on some nutrients can do just as much harm as good. Your doctor will be able to give you more guidance and recommendations based on your own pregnancy risks and concerns. Pregnant women should also evaulate their diet to make sure they are eating well. See our article with tips for a healthy pregnancy diet.
Domestic Abuse
About Domestic Violence
Are you being threatened, beaten, sexually assaulted or otherwise harmed by someone you live with? It is against the law for another person to threaten or hurt you — even if that other person is your spouse. Domestic violence is more than just a "family problem" — it's a crime.
Did you know:
AND...
Are You A Victim of Domestic Abuse?
Domestic violence can take many forms, but the goal is always the same: Batterers want to control their partners through fear. They do this by regularly abusing them physically, sexually, psychologically, and economically.
Abuse may take the following forms:
Relationships should be built on equality, not power and control. Look at the table below and decide which column best describes your relationship with your partner.
Power & Control
Equality
What You Can Do
You don't deserve to be abused under any circumstance. If you are pregnant and your boyfriend or husband is hurting you, you and your baby are in danger. Visit your local pregnancy center for a referral for help, otherwise contact one any of the resouces listed below. A counselor can help you find a safe place to stay where you and your child won't be in danger.
Are you being threatened, beaten, sexually assaulted or otherwise harmed by someone you live with? It is against the law for another person to threaten or hurt you — even if that other person is your spouse. Domestic violence is more than just a "family problem" — it's a crime.
Did you know:
- Women are ten times more likely to be victims of domestic abuse than men.
- Women are more likely to be injured in violent incidents committed by husbands/boyfriends than in incidents committed by strangers.
- Husbands, former husbands, boyfriends, and ex-boyfriends commit more than one million violent acts against women annually.
- Thirty percent of female murder victims were killed by their husbands or boyfriends.
- Domestic violence affects at least one out of four American families.
- Women age 20 to 34 suffer the highest rates of domestic violence compared to other age groups.
- Thirty percent of injured women in emergency rooms are a result of battering.
- Women of all races and all geographic locations are equally vulnerable to attacks.
AND...
- 15% to 25% of pregnant women are battered.
- Nearly one woman in six is abused during pregnancy.
- Pregnant and abused women are more likely to develop pregnancy problems from the abuse than from any other complication.
Are You A Victim of Domestic Abuse?
Domestic violence can take many forms, but the goal is always the same: Batterers want to control their partners through fear. They do this by regularly abusing them physically, sexually, psychologically, and economically.
Abuse may take the following forms:
- Physcial Abuse:
Hitting, slapping, kicking, punching, beating - Verbal Abuse:
Criticism, humiliation, name-calling, yelling - Sexual Violence:
Rape, forced sexual activities, degrading sexual acts - Isolation:
Making it hard to see friends or relatives, reading the mail, monitoring phone calls, controlling visits - Coercion:
Illiciting guilt, sulking, manipulation, making impossible rules and inflicting punishment for breaking them - Harassment:
Following or stalking, causing embarrassment in public, refusing to leave when asked - Economic Control:
Not paying bills, withholding money, not letting the victim work or taking the victim's earnings - Abusing Trust:
Lying, breaking promises, being unfaithful, overt jelousy, withholding important information - Threats and Intimidation:
Threats to harm the victim, children, friends, or pets, shouting, keeping weapons and threatening to use them - Emotional Withholding:
Not expressing feelings, not giving compliments, ignoring, not taking the victim's concerns seriously, disrespect - Destruction of Property:
Breaking furniture, punching walls, throwing things, destroying the victim's personal items - Self Destructive Behavior:
Drug or alcohol abuse, threatening suicide, reckless driving
Relationships should be built on equality, not power and control. Look at the table below and decide which column best describes your relationship with your partner.
Power & Control
- -Coercion & Threats
- -Intimidation
- -Verbal Attacks
- -Isolation
- -Minimizing, Denying, & Blaming
- -Using Loved Ones
- -Abusing Authority
- -Economic Control
Equality
- -Fairness
- -Non-Threatening Behavior
- -Respect
- -Trust & Support
- -Honesty
- -Responsible Parenting
- -Shared Responsiblity
- -Economic Partnership
What You Can Do
You don't deserve to be abused under any circumstance. If you are pregnant and your boyfriend or husband is hurting you, you and your baby are in danger. Visit your local pregnancy center for a referral for help, otherwise contact one any of the resouces listed below. A counselor can help you find a safe place to stay where you and your child won't be in danger.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Pregnancy Food Cravings
Pregnancy Food Cravings: What Pregnant Women Crave and Why
A recent study found that almost 40% of pregnant women list "something sweet" as their number one pregnancy food craving. Trailing at a close second, "salty food" was craved by 33% of women during pregnancy, with spicy food following at 17%, and sour or tart foods such as green apples and citrus coming in fourth as 10% of pregnant women's favorite snack.
Food cravings are a well-known feature of pregnancy symptoms, and the reasons behind these pregnancy urges is not well understood. Some believe they are meant to indicate a nutritional deficiency in a pregnant diet. But what can explain some of those strange "pica" cravings and sudden preference for foods that actually have lower levels of nutrition?
The Food Pregnant Women Crave
Some of the most common food cravings documented among pregnant women are sugary cravings, dairy products, spicy foods, sour fruit and salty snacks. Based on these results, it is not surprising that ice cream, pickles, tomatoes and tomato sauce, lemon, cheese, and chocolate are some of the top cravings experienced during pregnancy. Meat, on the other hand, has been listed as one of the highest ranking foods averted in a pregnancy diet, though it seems relatively common to crave animal fats in the form of, for example, steak fat.
Strange combinations of food such as black olives on cheesecake, pickles wrapped in cheese, and eggplant on pizza have been reported by pregnant women, while exclusively craving a single food such as pickled onions, salsa out of a jar, and peaches is also common. Frequently, women report having cravings for food that they never ate regularly prior to pregnancy; similarly, many women experience an aversion to these same craved-for items following the birth of their baby.
One of the most unusual and yet relatively common cravings among pregnant women is "pica" during pregnancy. Pica is a term used to describe cravings to eat non-food items such as toothpaste, laundry detergent, soap, dirt, coal, chalk, and cigarette butts. While indulging in pica cravings is dangerous to both the mother and the baby's health, experts have come up with several theories as to why these strange urges arise during pregnancy.
Why Pregnant Women Crave Certain Foods
There is no definitive answer as to why pregnant women crave certain foods in their diet. In fact, it is also common for pregnant women to experience no cravings at all. Nonetheless, several explanations have been put forth by researchers trying to find the key to pregnant diet cravings:
Hormonal changes during pregnancy may alter a woman's sense of taste and smell making her crave food that she normally would not have enjoyed. This could also explain why menopausal women often experience food cravings and aversions.
Temporary nutritional deficiencies may cause cravings; however, this reason would not explain why some women crave more than enough amounts of certain nutrients. Nonetheless, a craving for pickles could indicate low sodium levels in the blood, while craving chocolate may be triggered by a vitamin B deficiency. A craving for red meat may indicate a need for protein, while cravings for peaches might be a result of low beta carotene levels.
Emotional needs are known to be connected with food intake. A pregnant woman may be craving certain foods, consciously or subconsciously, as a response to emotional needs. Many pregnant women crave nostalgic foods that remind them of their childhoods or religious and cultural background, particularly if they are removed from it.
Warding off pregnancy symptoms such as morning sickness and nausea may be the basis for certain food aversions as well as pica cravings of non-food items during pregnancy. Substances like baking soda are known for calming digestive discomfort, while coffee, alcohol, and fried foods may induce nausea as well as harm your baby.
How To Deal With Pregnancy Cravings
The most important rule to follow when it comes to satisfying pregnancy cravings is to choose healthy options that are similar to the unhealthy foods you crave. Integrate some of your cravings for salty, sweet, sour, and spicy foods into a regular pregnancy diet that is nutritionally balanced. Consider the following healthy alternatives to some common pregnancy cravings:
Always resist pica cravings, which can be harmful to you and your baby's health, and contact your doctor if these cravings persist and become bothersome. Reward yourself with other treats (even if it is a bit of chocolate) when you are successfully avoiding those pica cravings and do the best you can to keep them out of your mind. Occasionally, pica cravings can be a sign of other problems, so seeking medical attention in these cases is important.
A recent study found that almost 40% of pregnant women list "something sweet" as their number one pregnancy food craving. Trailing at a close second, "salty food" was craved by 33% of women during pregnancy, with spicy food following at 17%, and sour or tart foods such as green apples and citrus coming in fourth as 10% of pregnant women's favorite snack.
Food cravings are a well-known feature of pregnancy symptoms, and the reasons behind these pregnancy urges is not well understood. Some believe they are meant to indicate a nutritional deficiency in a pregnant diet. But what can explain some of those strange "pica" cravings and sudden preference for foods that actually have lower levels of nutrition?
The Food Pregnant Women Crave
Some of the most common food cravings documented among pregnant women are sugary cravings, dairy products, spicy foods, sour fruit and salty snacks. Based on these results, it is not surprising that ice cream, pickles, tomatoes and tomato sauce, lemon, cheese, and chocolate are some of the top cravings experienced during pregnancy. Meat, on the other hand, has been listed as one of the highest ranking foods averted in a pregnancy diet, though it seems relatively common to crave animal fats in the form of, for example, steak fat.
Strange combinations of food such as black olives on cheesecake, pickles wrapped in cheese, and eggplant on pizza have been reported by pregnant women, while exclusively craving a single food such as pickled onions, salsa out of a jar, and peaches is also common. Frequently, women report having cravings for food that they never ate regularly prior to pregnancy; similarly, many women experience an aversion to these same craved-for items following the birth of their baby.
One of the most unusual and yet relatively common cravings among pregnant women is "pica" during pregnancy. Pica is a term used to describe cravings to eat non-food items such as toothpaste, laundry detergent, soap, dirt, coal, chalk, and cigarette butts. While indulging in pica cravings is dangerous to both the mother and the baby's health, experts have come up with several theories as to why these strange urges arise during pregnancy.
Why Pregnant Women Crave Certain Foods
There is no definitive answer as to why pregnant women crave certain foods in their diet. In fact, it is also common for pregnant women to experience no cravings at all. Nonetheless, several explanations have been put forth by researchers trying to find the key to pregnant diet cravings:
Hormonal changes during pregnancy may alter a woman's sense of taste and smell making her crave food that she normally would not have enjoyed. This could also explain why menopausal women often experience food cravings and aversions.
Temporary nutritional deficiencies may cause cravings; however, this reason would not explain why some women crave more than enough amounts of certain nutrients. Nonetheless, a craving for pickles could indicate low sodium levels in the blood, while craving chocolate may be triggered by a vitamin B deficiency. A craving for red meat may indicate a need for protein, while cravings for peaches might be a result of low beta carotene levels.
Emotional needs are known to be connected with food intake. A pregnant woman may be craving certain foods, consciously or subconsciously, as a response to emotional needs. Many pregnant women crave nostalgic foods that remind them of their childhoods or religious and cultural background, particularly if they are removed from it.
Warding off pregnancy symptoms such as morning sickness and nausea may be the basis for certain food aversions as well as pica cravings of non-food items during pregnancy. Substances like baking soda are known for calming digestive discomfort, while coffee, alcohol, and fried foods may induce nausea as well as harm your baby.
How To Deal With Pregnancy Cravings
The most important rule to follow when it comes to satisfying pregnancy cravings is to choose healthy options that are similar to the unhealthy foods you crave. Integrate some of your cravings for salty, sweet, sour, and spicy foods into a regular pregnancy diet that is nutritionally balanced. Consider the following healthy alternatives to some common pregnancy cravings:
- Ice cream. Opt for nonfat frozen yogurt, which will meet your calcium needs without the added calories
- Chocolate can be substituted by nonfat chocolate syrup drizzled on top of some fresh fruit
- Candy and Sweets may be substituted by dried fruits such as apricots, or fresh tropical fruit such as mango or pineapple
- Salty Snacks. Opt for popcorn sprinkled with herb blends or sesame breadsticks with spicy mustard dip
- Sour Snacks. Squeeze some lemon on your fish or use in a salad in order to ensure regular yet moderated intake instead of indulging in an empty calorie or sugary lemonade
Always resist pica cravings, which can be harmful to you and your baby's health, and contact your doctor if these cravings persist and become bothersome. Reward yourself with other treats (even if it is a bit of chocolate) when you are successfully avoiding those pica cravings and do the best you can to keep them out of your mind. Occasionally, pica cravings can be a sign of other problems, so seeking medical attention in these cases is important.
Choosing a Midwife
Midwives and Pregnancy
What Is A Midwife?
A midwife is a health care practitioner who offers health services that are less intrusive and constitute a more natural approach to health practice. When it comes to pregnancy, midwives act as facilitators of a childbirth experience that is as natural as possible. However, many midwives are trained to deal with certain pregnancy and delivery complications whether independently or in collaboration with a physician. The services offered by a given midwife are often dependent on their professional experience and licensure credentials.
Types of Midwives
There are three main types of practicing midwives in the United States:
The Benefits of Midwifery: Why Choose A Midwife
Midwifery is becoming a popular option for women who would like to experience a natural birth, whether the birth experience takes place at home, at a birth center or at a hospital. Midwives offer very personalized care, which can start at preconception through to prenatal care, delivery, and postpartum care.
This personalized care includes the following services:
A midwife can also recommend other health care practitioners, and may work in collaboration with physicians and surgeons if complications arise.
A midwife can also offer a more economical childbirth option, and many midwives treat pregnant women with lower incomes.
Studies have shown that the need for caesarian sections, mortality rates, and recovery complications are decreased amongst women who received prenatal care from a nurse midwife while pregnant. However, a hospital birth may be recommended if labor complications are expected, in order to have access to more facilities and practitioners.
Midwives and Other Services
While midwives are usually associated with childbirth, prenatal care, pregnancy, and post partum care, many nurse-midwives also provide gynecological health care to women of all ages, while maintaining the benefits of less technological intervention and a more personalized philosophy of health care practice.
Some of the gynecological services offered by a nurse-midwife include annual gynecological exams, breast exams, sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing, and pregnancy testing. Nurse midwives can also treat vaginal infections and urinary tract infections (UTIs) as well as provide PMS counseling.
A nurse-midwife can also treat issues related to menopause and osteoporosis, and in some cases provide hormone replacement therapy (HRT), perform a colposcopy or endometrial biopsy, as well as provide IUD and Implanon birth control services.
The types of services offered by a midwife generally depend on their professional history and certification along with the legal restrictions on medical practice of a given state. Check with a birth center or midwife practitioner in your area to find out about the services that may be available to you.
What Is A Midwife?
A midwife is a health care practitioner who offers health services that are less intrusive and constitute a more natural approach to health practice. When it comes to pregnancy, midwives act as facilitators of a childbirth experience that is as natural as possible. However, many midwives are trained to deal with certain pregnancy and delivery complications whether independently or in collaboration with a physician. The services offered by a given midwife are often dependent on their professional experience and licensure credentials.
Types of Midwives
There are three main types of practicing midwives in the United States:
- Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM). A certified nurse-midwife is trained in both nursing and midwifery. Certified nurse midwives are registered nurses who usually possess a bachelor's degree from an accredited educational institution along with certification from the American College of Nurse Midwives. Certified nurse midwives may work in hospitals, in a birth center setting, or provide independent homebirths, typically in collaboration with a physician.
- Certified Professional Midwife (CPM). A certified professional midwife is an individual who is trained in midwifery and whose skills and practice have been approved by the North American Registry of Midwives. CPMs generally work in birth centers or homes.
- Lay Midwife. A lay midwife is a practitioner who chooses not to become certified and may work in collaboration with a physician but does not have to be under the physician's directive. Lay midwives may have less formal training by way of apprenticeships, informal schooling, or self-study. A lay midwife focuses on homebirths and delivery at birth centers.
The Benefits of Midwifery: Why Choose A Midwife
Midwifery is becoming a popular option for women who would like to experience a natural birth, whether the birth experience takes place at home, at a birth center or at a hospital. Midwives offer very personalized care, which can start at preconception through to prenatal care, delivery, and postpartum care.
This personalized care includes the following services:
- Nutrition and exercise counseling for a healthy pregnancy
- A relaxed atmosphere as well as emotional support, encouragement, and counseling for a natural baby delivery
- Providing natural pain relief or pain medication and epidural during child birth
- Preconception counseling including a review of past medical and genetic history, immunization status, prenatal vitamins and pregnancy testing
- Complete prenatal care including gestational diabetes
- Postpartum care including breastfeeding education and check ups
A midwife can also recommend other health care practitioners, and may work in collaboration with physicians and surgeons if complications arise.
A midwife can also offer a more economical childbirth option, and many midwives treat pregnant women with lower incomes.
Studies have shown that the need for caesarian sections, mortality rates, and recovery complications are decreased amongst women who received prenatal care from a nurse midwife while pregnant. However, a hospital birth may be recommended if labor complications are expected, in order to have access to more facilities and practitioners.
Midwives and Other Services
While midwives are usually associated with childbirth, prenatal care, pregnancy, and post partum care, many nurse-midwives also provide gynecological health care to women of all ages, while maintaining the benefits of less technological intervention and a more personalized philosophy of health care practice.
Some of the gynecological services offered by a nurse-midwife include annual gynecological exams, breast exams, sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing, and pregnancy testing. Nurse midwives can also treat vaginal infections and urinary tract infections (UTIs) as well as provide PMS counseling.
A nurse-midwife can also treat issues related to menopause and osteoporosis, and in some cases provide hormone replacement therapy (HRT), perform a colposcopy or endometrial biopsy, as well as provide IUD and Implanon birth control services.
The types of services offered by a midwife generally depend on their professional history and certification along with the legal restrictions on medical practice of a given state. Check with a birth center or midwife practitioner in your area to find out about the services that may be available to you.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Weight Gain in Pregnancy
Pregnancy and Weight Gain: How Much is Too Much?
As if the hormone and lifestyle changes weren't enough to deal with, pregnancy also means confronting the number one body image problem facing women today: weight gain. We all know women will gain weight during pregnancy, but how much is too much? And what can women do to keep their bodies healthy for themselves and their baby without packing on unnecessary pounds?
How Much Should a Woman Expect to Gain During Pregnancy?
How much weight you should expect to gain during pregnancy varies depending on your weight prior to conception. For pregnant women who are of a normal weight before pregnancy, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends gaining anywhere from 25-35 pounds. Those who are underweight may gain up to 40 pounds, while those who are overweight should gain a maximum of 25 pounds. If you have been diagnosed as clinically obese, then it is recommended you gain no more than 15 pounds during pregnancy.
If you are carrying twins or multiple babies, however, the amount of recommended weight gain increases to more than 45 pounds, depending on your pre-pregnancy weight and the number of babies you are carrying.
In general, you will probably only gain about 5 pounds during your first trimester. After that, you can expect a steady weight gain of about 1-2 pounds a week right up until the birth your baby.
Of course, how much weight you gain and how often may vary for a variety of reasons. Being in regular contact with your doctor during pregnancy will help you to be sure what amount is right for you.
What is the Weight Made Up Of?
On average, the weight gained during pregnancy can be accounted for by following:
Can Complications Arise from too Little or too Much Weight Gain?
Women who are underweight before pregnancy need to be extra careful about gaining weight. Being underweight could result in a premature birth and/or the low-birth weight of your baby.
If you are overweight before pregnancy, it is important to note that even though the amount of weight you are recommended to gain is lower than that of women of a normal weight, you still have to gain weight. Pregnancy is no time for dieting. Without the necessary amount of weight gain, your body will be unable to store the amount of fat required to carry your pregnancy to term.
That said, a greater than normal amount of weight gain during pregnancy should also be cautioned against, as this may lead to obesity after childbirth, which could lead to a whole host of other health problems.
How can I Prevent Unnecessary Weight Gain?
While the right amount of weight gain is essential to a healthy pregnancy, there are better ways than others in which to acquire the extra pounds. A healthy diet full of whole grains, fruits and vegetables as well as lean proteins and dairy products will help you and your baby get the nutrients you need. It is also recommended that you take a prenatal supplement to account for the necessary vitamins and minerals not included in your daily diet. Talk to your doctor about the healthy diet that's right for you.
Most importantly, remember: you are carrying a life inside you! Pregnancy weight gain should be viewed as a positive sign that your pregnancy is carrying along normally.
As if the hormone and lifestyle changes weren't enough to deal with, pregnancy also means confronting the number one body image problem facing women today: weight gain. We all know women will gain weight during pregnancy, but how much is too much? And what can women do to keep their bodies healthy for themselves and their baby without packing on unnecessary pounds?
How Much Should a Woman Expect to Gain During Pregnancy?
How much weight you should expect to gain during pregnancy varies depending on your weight prior to conception. For pregnant women who are of a normal weight before pregnancy, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends gaining anywhere from 25-35 pounds. Those who are underweight may gain up to 40 pounds, while those who are overweight should gain a maximum of 25 pounds. If you have been diagnosed as clinically obese, then it is recommended you gain no more than 15 pounds during pregnancy.
If you are carrying twins or multiple babies, however, the amount of recommended weight gain increases to more than 45 pounds, depending on your pre-pregnancy weight and the number of babies you are carrying.
In general, you will probably only gain about 5 pounds during your first trimester. After that, you can expect a steady weight gain of about 1-2 pounds a week right up until the birth your baby.
Of course, how much weight you gain and how often may vary for a variety of reasons. Being in regular contact with your doctor during pregnancy will help you to be sure what amount is right for you.
What is the Weight Made Up Of?
On average, the weight gained during pregnancy can be accounted for by following:
- Your baby: 6-8 pounds (by the end of the pregnancy)
- The placenta: 1.5 pounds
- Increased fluid volume: 2-3 pounds
- Uterus: 2 pounds
- Increased storage of maternal fats, proteins and other nutrients: 4-6 pounds
- Breast enlargement: 1-2 pounds
- Blood volume: 3-4 pounds
- Amniotic fluid: 2 pounds
Can Complications Arise from too Little or too Much Weight Gain?
Women who are underweight before pregnancy need to be extra careful about gaining weight. Being underweight could result in a premature birth and/or the low-birth weight of your baby.
If you are overweight before pregnancy, it is important to note that even though the amount of weight you are recommended to gain is lower than that of women of a normal weight, you still have to gain weight. Pregnancy is no time for dieting. Without the necessary amount of weight gain, your body will be unable to store the amount of fat required to carry your pregnancy to term.
That said, a greater than normal amount of weight gain during pregnancy should also be cautioned against, as this may lead to obesity after childbirth, which could lead to a whole host of other health problems.
How can I Prevent Unnecessary Weight Gain?
While the right amount of weight gain is essential to a healthy pregnancy, there are better ways than others in which to acquire the extra pounds. A healthy diet full of whole grains, fruits and vegetables as well as lean proteins and dairy products will help you and your baby get the nutrients you need. It is also recommended that you take a prenatal supplement to account for the necessary vitamins and minerals not included in your daily diet. Talk to your doctor about the healthy diet that's right for you.
Most importantly, remember: you are carrying a life inside you! Pregnancy weight gain should be viewed as a positive sign that your pregnancy is carrying along normally.
Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a disorder that occurs during pregnancy, which is related to pregnancy-induced hypertension. Characterized by high blood pressure and the presence of protein in the urine, preeclampsia usually occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy. Sometimes referred to as pregnancy toxemia, preeclampsia can range from mild to severe. Without proper care and management, preeclampsia can cause a number of serious health complications, including preterm labor, seizures, and even death.
Who Gets Preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia occurs in 5% to 8% of all pregnancies in the United States. Though any pregnant women can develop preeclampsia, the vast majority of sufferers are women experiencing their first pregnancies. Other risk factors area also known to increase your chances of developing the condition, including:
What Causes Preeclampsia?
Unfortunately, no one is really sure what causes preeclampsia; in fact, most researchers think that a number of factors probably contribute to the development of the illness. Some theorize that poor placental implantation is to blame for the condition. If the placenta implants improperly during the beginning stages of pregnancy, arteries in the uterus fail to dilate. As a result, the placenta receives less blood and symptoms of high blood pressure and protein in the urine begin to manifest.
Watching Out For Preeclampsia: The Symptoms
All women with pre eclampsia have high blood pressure levels (above 140/90) and evidence of protein in the urine. Additional symptoms can also occur, however these can vary widely from person to person. Unfortunately, many women with mild preeclampsia don’t experience any additional symptoms, which often makes diagnosis and proper treatment even more difficult. If you do experience symptoms, they may manifest slowly or quite rapidly sometime after the 20th week of pregnancy. Possible preeclampsia signs include:
The Dangers of Preeclampsia
Though the vast majority of preeclampsia sufferers experience only mild symptoms, some women can develop severe preeclampsia. This condition is associated with a number of health complications.
Complications for Mother
When severe, preeclampsia can create a number of health complications for mom, including:
Complications for Baby
Preeclampsia can result in a number of complications in your baby, including:
Treating Preeclampsia
The only sure treatment for preeclampsia is delivery of your baby. If you develop preeclampsia after 36 weeks of pregnancy, you will likely be induced or will have your baby delivered via cesarean section. If you are less 36 weeks pregnant, your health care provider will probably try to keep your condition stable so that your baby can develop a little more.
If your condition is mild, you may be sent home and asked to reduce your activity. Your baby will be monitored closely for any problems. If your preeclampsia is more serious, you may have to remain in hospital for the rest of your pregnancy. Here, your health care provider can monitor your blood pressure closely and offer you medications to help reduce it. You may also receive steroids in order to help strengthen your baby’s lungs should you deliver.
If you encounter any complications, your baby may have to be delivered early, probably through a cesarean section. You and your baby will then remain in hospital where you will be monitored closely.
Preventing Preeclampsia
Unfortunately, there is no surefire way to prevent developing preeclampsia during your pregnancy. Researchers had hoped that supplements of Vitamins C and E could help to decrease the risk of preeclampsia by eliminating free radicals in the placenta. However, a recent study shows that these vitamins do not appear to lessen your risk.
The study, performed in the United Kingdom, examined 2,400 women at high risk of developing preeclampsia. Half of these women were given supplements of vitamins C and E while the other half were given placebo pills. Despite the use of supplements, both groups exhibited similar instances of preeclampsia during pregnancy, with 15% of women taking vitamin C and E and 16% of women in the control group developing the complication. However, 28% of those women who received vitamin C and E supplements during pregnancy gave birth to a low birthweight baby versus only 24% of women in the control group.
The best way to lower your risk of preeclampsia appears to be maintaining routine prenatal care appointments and by getting regular screening for the condition.
Preeclampsia is a disorder that occurs during pregnancy, which is related to pregnancy-induced hypertension. Characterized by high blood pressure and the presence of protein in the urine, preeclampsia usually occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy. Sometimes referred to as pregnancy toxemia, preeclampsia can range from mild to severe. Without proper care and management, preeclampsia can cause a number of serious health complications, including preterm labor, seizures, and even death.
Who Gets Preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia occurs in 5% to 8% of all pregnancies in the United States. Though any pregnant women can develop preeclampsia, the vast majority of sufferers are women experiencing their first pregnancies. Other risk factors area also known to increase your chances of developing the condition, including:
- having a personal history of preeclampsia (in a previous pregnancy)
- having a family history of preeclampsia (mother or sister developed it)
- being obese
- having a history of high blood pressure
- experiencing a multiple pregnancy
- being teenager or a women over the age of 40
- suffering from an autoimmune disorder (such as Lupus or Multiple Sclerosis)
What Causes Preeclampsia?
Unfortunately, no one is really sure what causes preeclampsia; in fact, most researchers think that a number of factors probably contribute to the development of the illness. Some theorize that poor placental implantation is to blame for the condition. If the placenta implants improperly during the beginning stages of pregnancy, arteries in the uterus fail to dilate. As a result, the placenta receives less blood and symptoms of high blood pressure and protein in the urine begin to manifest.
Watching Out For Preeclampsia: The Symptoms
All women with pre eclampsia have high blood pressure levels (above 140/90) and evidence of protein in the urine. Additional symptoms can also occur, however these can vary widely from person to person. Unfortunately, many women with mild preeclampsia don’t experience any additional symptoms, which often makes diagnosis and proper treatment even more difficult. If you do experience symptoms, they may manifest slowly or quite rapidly sometime after the 20th week of pregnancy. Possible preeclampsia signs include:
- swelling (especially in the hands and face)
- rapid weight gain (more than 2 pounds per week)
- nausea and vomiting
- headaches
- vision problems (including loss of vision or blurry vision)
- abdominal pain
The Dangers of Preeclampsia
Though the vast majority of preeclampsia sufferers experience only mild symptoms, some women can develop severe preeclampsia. This condition is associated with a number of health complications.
Complications for Mother
When severe, preeclampsia can create a number of health complications for mom, including:
- increased risk of stroke (due to high blood pressure)
- kidney and liver dysfunction
- eclampsia (a condition which causes the development of seizures)
- HELLP syndrome (the most severe form or preeclampsia)
Complications for Baby
Preeclampsia can result in a number of complications in your baby, including:
- Intrauterine Growth Restriction: Due to high blood pressure levels and narrow uterine arteries, blood flow to your placenta can become restricted. This means that your baby will receive less oxygen and nutrients while in the womb. As a result, your baby may not develop properly or could be born with a low birthweight.
- Acidosis: If your baby does not receive enough oxygen from the placenta, he will begin extracting oxygen from fuel stores in his body. This produces a toxic byproduct known as lactic acid. If this lactic acid builds up to high levels, it can result in acidosis, which can render your baby unconscious.
- Preterm Birth: The biggest complication of preeclampsia is preterm birth. Because preeclampsia can become dangerous for both mother and baby, it is sometimes necessary to deliver baby before 36 weeks. This can result in possible developmental problems and even fetal death.
Treating Preeclampsia
The only sure treatment for preeclampsia is delivery of your baby. If you develop preeclampsia after 36 weeks of pregnancy, you will likely be induced or will have your baby delivered via cesarean section. If you are less 36 weeks pregnant, your health care provider will probably try to keep your condition stable so that your baby can develop a little more.
If your condition is mild, you may be sent home and asked to reduce your activity. Your baby will be monitored closely for any problems. If your preeclampsia is more serious, you may have to remain in hospital for the rest of your pregnancy. Here, your health care provider can monitor your blood pressure closely and offer you medications to help reduce it. You may also receive steroids in order to help strengthen your baby’s lungs should you deliver.
If you encounter any complications, your baby may have to be delivered early, probably through a cesarean section. You and your baby will then remain in hospital where you will be monitored closely.
Preventing Preeclampsia
Unfortunately, there is no surefire way to prevent developing preeclampsia during your pregnancy. Researchers had hoped that supplements of Vitamins C and E could help to decrease the risk of preeclampsia by eliminating free radicals in the placenta. However, a recent study shows that these vitamins do not appear to lessen your risk.
The study, performed in the United Kingdom, examined 2,400 women at high risk of developing preeclampsia. Half of these women were given supplements of vitamins C and E while the other half were given placebo pills. Despite the use of supplements, both groups exhibited similar instances of preeclampsia during pregnancy, with 15% of women taking vitamin C and E and 16% of women in the control group developing the complication. However, 28% of those women who received vitamin C and E supplements during pregnancy gave birth to a low birthweight baby versus only 24% of women in the control group.
The best way to lower your risk of preeclampsia appears to be maintaining routine prenatal care appointments and by getting regular screening for the condition.
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