Unplanned pregnancy

Unplanned pregnancy:
Finding a reliable counseling center

You may think that the role of a pregnancy counseling center is to support a woman's right to reproductive choice. Unfortunately, however, not all pregnancy counseling centers do: some are fraudulent and may provide false medical information. Others may make moral and religious judgments and still others may show graphic videos or printed materials that misrepresents abortion in an attempt to convince women to continue a pregnancy. These fraudulent counseling centers may potentially put women's health at risk by coercing them to continue a pregnancy no matter what.

Below, Women's Web outlines what to look for in choosing a reliable, trustworthy counseling center. We acknowledge that no checklist is 100% foolproof: the best advice we can offer is for you to trust your gut instincts. If a counseling center causes you to feel pressured or uncomfortable, remember you're under no obligation to stay. Simply leave if you don't feel right.

Advertising

Does the center's advertising:

• offer clear information on all your pregnancy options—parenting, adoption, and abortion?
• provide referrals to other supportive services if you choose to continue your pregnancy?
• provide referrals to abortion providers?

On the phone

When you contact the center by telephone, does the staff member:

• answer your questions about referrals or abortion providers in a straightforward, non-judgmental way?
• state the center's position as being pro-choice—that is, up to the woman?
• confirm that the center operates as a not-for-profit or federally approved entity?
• confirm that the center receives no religious funding?
• offer accurate, up-to-date information on all forms of birth control?

At the center

Visit the center and carefully observe the waiting room and reception area. Make sure:

• there is information available on all pregnancy options—parenting, adoption, and abortion
• the atmosphere is neutral

Your consultation

During your consultation with a staff member, counselor, or health nurse, be sure he or she:

• remains neutral and keeps his or her personal values, beliefs, and values out of the conversation
• does not give opinions or advice
• provides unbiased information
• encourages you to make your own decision
• supports your decision about the future of your pregnancy
• gives you accurate and up-to-date information and referrals to counseling on birth control and sexually transmitted infections

Even if after taking the above steps, a center's position is unclear, call your local Planned Parenthood affiliate or local public health clinic. They will be able to tell you the nature of a pregnancy counseling center and whether it is acceptable.