YOU HAVE
OPTIONS
I’m pregnant. What now? Your mind is probably racing with questions, and you may be feeling overwhelmed and alone. Sometimes it can be very difficult to talk to your family, friends or partner. You may be concerned about your financial situation, lack of health insurance or how this pregnancy will affect your life. It can be difficult to make decisions when you feel like everything is spinning out of control. Aid for Women is here to help. This is your decision, so it is important to understand the changes happening within your body and to know all your pregnancy options in order to make a fully informed decision. Our medical staff and advocates help you assess your situation, provide accurate information and support you throughout your pregnancy decision.
It’s your decision. You have options. “I absolutely recommend Aid for Women to any woman who is struggling. I was scared and alone with nowhere to turn. The help I received was exceptional! I felt safe and secure and like I could go to them for anything. They really helped me through a tough situation and I couldn’t be more thankful.” — Alyssa
FOR THOUGHT At Aid for Women, we believe that it is important to care for the whole woman. Your emotional, physical and spiritual well-being are all a part of who you are: God’s beautiful creation! “But by the grace of God, I am what I am.” (1 Cor. 15:10)
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SUPPORT GROUPS Participate in our pregnancy and parenting support groups! Learn, grow and meet other moms. A new and different topic is discussed each time.
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What services are offered? Aid for Women understands that every woman’s situation is different. We provide a confidential and comfortable place for you to meet with our medical staff and advocates to discuss your situation. You will receive information and services to understand your options, make a fully-informed decision and move forward with your pregnancy plan. All services are offered FREE OF CHARGE. PREGNANCY TESTS AND ULTRASOUND EXAMS The first step is to confirm your pregnancy and check viability. Aid for Women offers medical grade pregnancy tests and on-site ultrasound exams to give you immediate and accurate results during your visit. CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATIONS When facing an unexpected pregnancy, it is important to understand all of your options. Our compassionate staff will discuss your individual situation, provide you with accurate information about your options and support you throughout your pregnancy decision. ABORTION PILL REVERSAL Did you change your mind after taking the abortion pill? Many women do. There may still be time to stop the process and save your pregnancy. Our staff provides guidance and support throughout the abortion pill reversal process. Call or text our 24/7 helpline immediately at (312) 621-1100. MEDICAL AND COMMUNITY REFERRALS Women come to us with many different material, physical and emotional needs — including healthcare, housing, nutrition, employment and help with emotional or relationship issues. Aid for Women has established partnerships with a network of medical and community agencies throughout Illinois, allowing us to better serve the needs of our clients and their families. SUPPORT PROGRAMS Aid for Women clients are invited to join our programs to receive ongoing support during their pregnancies and beyond. Programs offered include a oneon-one mentor program, pregnancy and parenting classes, support groups, men’s support and a baby boutique program. MATERNITY HOMES Aid for Women operates two maternity homes, Heather’s House and Monica’s House, for expectant moms, new moms and their children. Your advocate will help you assess your current living situation and possible options that are available to you during and after your pregnancy.
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How far along am I? It is important to understand your pregnancy and the changes happening within your body as you think about the options that are available to you. Aid for Women offers free on-site ultrasound exams to confirm the viability of the pregnancy. Based on your last menstrual period, an estimated gestational age will be provided to you. Day 1 | CONCEPTION At the moment of conception, when the sperm fertilizes the egg, a new and unique individual is formed. This new life may be smaller than a grain of sugar, but all the inherited features of this person are already set — whether it’s a boy or girl, the hair and eye color and the dimples of the cheeks. Week 4 (You’ve missed your period!) | BRAIN AND HEART By the time you miss your period, the baby has already gone through lots of growth, including the beginning development of her brain, spinal cord and heart. Eyes, ears, arms and legs are beginning to form. The baby is about 1/4 inch in length. Week 6 | A LITTLE FACE, FINGERS AND TOES The baby is quickly developing into a little person. Her face makes its first appearance with tiny eyes, nose and mouth. Blood flows through the baby’s veins, and her fingers and toes are forming. Baby’s kidneys, liver, and lungs also take shape this week. The baby is about 1/2 inch in length. Week 8 | TEETH, EYELIDS AND ORGANS Her teeth buds appear, and facial muscles are developing. Eyelids begin to form to protect her tiny eyes. All her essential organs and body systems have begun to develop, and baby is making spontaneous movements. The baby is about 3/4 inch in length. Week 10 | BONES, MUSCLES AND FINGERNAILS The baby’s ears, bones, muscles and nerve connections continue to form. Knees, ankles, and elbows are already working. Her fingerprints and fingernails begin to develop. You cannot feel it yet, but the baby is moving her body and facial muscles. The baby is about 1.5 inches in length. Week 12 | TASTE BUDS, HAIR AND SWALLOWING The baby’s vocal cords and taste buds are forming. Fine hair begins to grow on her upper lip, chin and eyebrows. She is able to swallow and responds to skin stimulation. The baby is about 2 inches in length.
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Week 14 | FACIAL EXPRESSIONS AND NERVE CELLS The baby is making facial expressions and is active although you still cannot feel the movements. A burst in the production of the baby’s nerve cells begins and continues for the next month. Her kidneys are functioning to filter and reprocess her blood. Your baby has reached about 3 to 4 inches in length. Week 16 | SOMERSAULTS AND SLEEPING HABITS The baby is becoming more active and can turn somersaults at this point. You may start feeling “flutters” of her movement. Her nostrils are visible, and she starts to develop sleeping habits. Your baby has reached about 5 inches in length and will continue to grow rapidly in the coming weeks. Week 18 | TWISTING, KICKING AND HEARING Your baby may be large enough now for you to feel her twisting, kicking and punching. Your baby’s nervous system is rapidly maturing and forming more complex connections. Your baby has reached about 6 to 7 inches in length. Week 20 | LOOKING LIKE A NEWBORN The baby is starting to look like a newborn infant as the skin becomes less transparent and fat begins to develop. The baby is also starting to act like a newborn by sucking her thumb and developing sleeping habits. The baby has reached about 10 inches in length. Week 22 | BABY HEARS YOU Your baby’s hearing is growing more acute, making her more conscious of sounds that come from inside your body (which means she can hear your heartbeat and hiccup!). Her eyes will soon begin to open, preparing to see the outside world. The baby has reached about 11 inches in length and weighs about 1 pound.
DID YOU KNOW? Babies as young as 21 weeks have survived with the assistance of medical technology. A normal pregnancy will continue for 37 to 41 weeks.
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I’m considering abortion. What are my options? What can I expect? EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION (Plan B One-Step® and Ella®)
What about emergency contraception? Emergency contraception pills can be taken during the first few hours or days following unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. Since the effects can occur after conception, emergency contraception pills may cause medical abortions. Plan B One-Step and Ella are two commonly known emergency contraceptives. Plan B One-Step contains a large amount of levonorgestrel that is taken within 72 hours of intercourse. Ella contains ulipristal acetate, a drug in the same class as mifepristone, better known as the abortion pill or RU-486. Ella can be taken up to five days after intercourse. Depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle, both drugs may also work by delaying your normal ovulation process. Plan B One-Step and Ella should not be taken if you think you are pregnant or used as a routine form of birth control.
ABORTION PILL (RU-486, Mifeprex®/ Mifepristone) FDA approved use up to 10 weeks
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How does the abortion pill work? A physical exam should be first given in order to determine eligibility for this type of medical abortion procedure. There are several pregnancy and medical conditions which do not allow the use of the abortion pill. During the first office visit, you are given mifepristone pills to take orally. Mifepristone blocks the effects of your natural hormone progesterone and causes the uterine lining to break down. This stops the flow of nutrition and blood to the embryo and may prevent the pregnancy from continuing. Two to three days later, you will be given a second drug, misoprostol, which will cause bleeding and contractions that expel the embryo. This expulsion process may take a few hours or as long as a few days so it is recommended you stay home until the process has completed. A physical exam should be given two weeks later to ensure the abortion was completed and to check for complications. Additional options are available for medical abortions — including methotrexate and misoprostol. Methotrexate is administered orally or by injection and is widely used as a chemotherapy drug to treat cancer.
DID YOU KNOW? The abortion pill procedure is unsuccessful approximately 5% to 10% of the time with the potential of requiring an additional surgical abortion procedure to complete the termination.
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What about surgical abortion options? What can I expect? SUCTION ASPIRATION Up to 14 weeks
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How is suction aspiration abortion performed? Your abortion provider will give you medication for pain and possibly sedation. You will lie on your back with your feet in stirrups and a speculum is inserted to open the vagina. A local anesthetic is administered to your cervix to numb it. Then a tenaculum (a surgical instrument with long handles and a clamp at the end) is used to hold the cervix in place. The cervix is then dilated with absorbent rods that vary in size. The rods may also be put in a few days prior to the procedure. When the cervix is
wide enough, a cannula (a long plastic tube connected to a suction device) is inserted into the uterus to suction out the fetus and placenta. The procedure usually lasts 10-15 minutes, but recovery can require staying at the clinic for a few hours.
DILATION AND EVACUATION (D & E) After 13 weeks
DILATION AND EVACUATION (D & E) After 24 weeks
How is dilation and evacuation performed? In most cases, 24 hours prior to the actual procedure, your abortion provider will insert laminaria or a synthetic dilator inside your cervix. When the procedure begins the next day, your abortion provider will use a tenaculum to keep the cervix and uterus in place. Additional laminaria or synthetic dilators will be inserted into your cervix to open it wide enough for the fetal remains to be removed. A shot may be given before the procedure begins to ensure fetal death has occurred. Then a cannula is inserted to remove tissue away from the lining. Then using a curette (a surgical instrument shaped like a spoon), the lining is scraped to remove any residuals. If needed, forceps may be used to remove larger parts. The last step is usually a final suctioning to make sure the contents are completely removed. The procedure normally takes 15-30 minutes. The fetal remains are usually counted and examined to ensure everything was removed and that the abortion was complete.
How is dilation and evacuation after 24 weeks performed? The procedure typically takes 2-3 days and is associated with increased risk to the life and health of the mother. Because a live birth is possible, injections are given to cause fetal death. This is done in order to comply with the Partial Birth Abortion Act of 2003 which requires the fetus to be dead before complete removal from the mother’s body. The medications (digoxin and potassium chloride) are either injected into the umbilical cord, amniotic fluid, or directly into the fetus’ heart. Fetal parts are reassembled after removal from the uterus to make sure nothing is left behind to cause infection or bleeding. An alternate technique, called “Intact D & E” is also used. The goal is to remove the fetus in one piece, reducing the risk of leaving body parts behind or of causing damage to the woman’s body. This procedure requires the cervix to be opened wide enough to bring out the fetus head intact. However, it still may be necessary to crush the fetus’ skull for removal.
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What are the risks and side effects related to the abortion pill? Immediate and long-term risks and side effects of the abortion pill (medical abortion) may include: • cramping • vomiting • headaches • nausea • fatigue • fever and chills • dizziness • diarrhea • infection • heavy bleeding • trauma All methods of medical abortion have an associated failure rate, and surgical abortion may be required to complete the abortion. Reasons for surgical intervention include prolonged or excessive bleeding, incomplete abortion (remnants of fetal tissue in the uterus) or an ongoing pregnancy.
What are other considerations I should know before taking the abortion pill? RH DISEASE Rh factor is an inherited protein found on the surface of red blood cells. If your blood has the protein, you’re Rh positive. If your blood doesn’t have the protein, you’re Rh negative. It is important to know your blood type, and whether you are Rh negative or Rh positive during pregnancy. According to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists (ACOG), prevention of Rh disease is needed prior to taking the abortion pill.
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During pregnancy, problems can occur if you are Rh negative and your fetus is Rh positive. During labor and birth, or even when a pregnancy is not carried to term such as during an induced abortion, there is a chance that the fetal blood may mix with your blood, which would cause Rh antibodies to develop in your blood. These antibodies may cause problems to your future reproductive health. ACOG recommends that you find out if you are Rh negative early in pregnancy and, if needed, seek treatment to prevent these problems. ANEMIA AND BLEEDING DISORDERS According to the FDA, the abortion pill should not be taken by women who are anemic or who have bleeding disorders, or women who are on anticoagulant medications due to the risk of heavy bleeding. If you have unknown bleeding tendencies, you may unknowingly be in the population at risk. A routine blood screening, which could be as simple as a fingerstick, would inform you of any abnormal Hemoglobin or clotting values, and prevent further bleeding risks related to abortion. CHLAMYDIA AND GONORRHEA According to studies, women who have an untreated STD/STI such as Chlamydia or Gonorrhea are up to 23% more likely to develop Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) following an abortion. Did you know that most women with Chlamydia or Gonorrhea experience no symptoms, and therefore it goes undiagnosed and untreated? Untreated STI’s and PID pose a serious health risk, including infertility, future ectopic pregnancy, future pregnancy complications, chronic pelvic pain and abdominal pain, sepsis (a serious
blood infection), or an abscess around the fallopian tubes or ovaries which can be fatal if rupture occurs. If you are pregnant and considering abortion, it is important to receive STD/STI testing, and treatment if needed, to protect your future reproductive health, and prevent the risk of serious infection. ECTOPIC PREGNANCY According to the FDA, ectopic pregnancy must be ruled out before taking the abortion pill. Ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that is implanted outside of the uterus. This is a life-threatening condition if left untreated, and the abortion pill does not terminate an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancies can go undiagnosed due to some women not experiencing any symptoms at all. Your pregnancy can be assessed by an ultrasound to determine its location. ABORTION PILL REVERSAL
What are the risks and side effects related to surgical abortions? Immediate risks and side effects of surgical abortions may include: • cramping • heavy or prolonged bleeding • nausea • endotoxic shock • fever • convulsions • abdominal pain • blood clots • anesthesia complications • tearing of the uterine lining • infection • death • damage to the cervix Long-term risks and side effects of surgical abortions may include: • scar tissue • damage to reproductive organs • increased risk of breast cancer • increased risk of infertility • increased risk of cervical cancer • increased risk of miscarriage
If you have taken the abortion pill and regret your decision, it may not be too late to reverse the abortion process. Contact Aid for Women now for immediate help with Abortion Pill Reversal, and our staff will provide guidance and support free of charge! Call our 24/7 helpline at (312) 621-1100. Read more on these topics from ACOG, the FDA, and research studies here:
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DID YOU KNOW? In the early weeks of pregnancy, the fetus pain sensory receptors are quickly developing, and the baby’s capability of experiencing pain increases as the pregnancy progresses.
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How will I feel after an abortion? The reality and trauma of an abruptly ended pregnancy can bring on emotional and psychological side effects, ranging from regret to more serious complications like depression. We have seen women who experience these effects immediately following the abortion or unexpectedly several months to years later. The intensity or duration of these effects will also vary from one person to another. Emotional and psychological side effects may include: • regret • anger • guilt • depression • anxiety • sense of loneliness or isolation • loss of self-confidence • flashbacks of pregnancy or abortion • insomnia or nightmares • eating disorders • relationship issues • suicidal thoughts • death It may seem like having an abortion is the easy solution to an unexpected pregnancy, and you can just move on. It is not that simple. Abortion is a medical procedure with many possible risks and side effects. It can be a life-changing event with significant physical and emotional consequences. Many women who have had past abortions will continue to struggle their entire lives with their abortion decision and wish they had been better informed about abortion procedures and the many risks and side effects.
DID YOU KNOW? A woman’s decision to abort is often based on the demands and threats of others, even when it violates the woman’s own moral beliefs and desire to keep the baby. This is a known risk factor for psychological complications after abortion.
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Chemical Abortion Checklist It is critical to be fully informed before taking the abortion pill at home. Use the checklist below to ensure your clear and complete understanding the necessary information before your decision. ` I have taken a medical-grade pregnancy test to verify that I am pregnant. ` I have received an ultrasound to confirm the age and location of my pregnancy, and I am under 10 weeks gestation. I understand that the FDA approves Mifepristone for use up to 10 weeks of pregnancy. ` I have read this brochure and understand the chemical abortion process and possible medical risks associated with it. ` I have been presented with resources to help continue my pregnancy if I should decide to do so. ` If I decide to proceed with a chemical abortion, I will have someone I trust with me who knows I am undergoing this medical procedure at home, and is prepared to help in case of an emergency. ` I understand that using the chemical abortion pills can cause significant blood loss so it is important to measure and track my blood loss. I understand 500 mL of blood loss in 24 hours is considered a postpartum hemorrhage and requires immediate medical attention. [Extra absorbent or overnight pads can hold around 15 mL of fluid. Adult diapers hold around 250-1400 mL of fluid.] ` I understand that my baby’s remains may be identifiable along with the uterine contents expelled, and I understand there are resources available for burial or cremation. I understand that Aid for Women can assist with resources for this process. ` I understand that if I experience a medical emergency, I must tell the physician I have taken the chemical abortion pill so I receive the right treatment. ` I understand that if I experience mental health difficulties, I will seek professional help or call/text 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. I also know of post-abortion recovery resources and I understand that I can obtain help with my grieving process. ` I understand that abortion pill reversal is available, and that if I take Mifepristone (the first pill) and change my mind, I can call 877-558-0333 to speak with a medical professional for help. I also understand at that time I will receive pregnancy help and alternatives to abortion options. If any of these boxes remain unchecked, we strongly encourage you to obtain additional information or medical guidance before proceeding with your decision.
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I can’t go through with an abortion, but what other options do I have? You have two choices when facing an unexpected pregnancy — abortion or continue the pregnancy. The decision to continue with your pregnancy can be overwhelming and frightening, but you are not alone. Aid for Women will provide the support and guidance you need as you start your journey.
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Continue the Pregnancy The choice to continue with your pregnancy is a challenging and rewarding decision. Many women say that an unexpected pregnancy turned their world upside down, but that having their baby turned it right side up. Continuing your pregnancy is a very courageous and loving choice. You will not be alone in your decision. Aid for Women can help answer questions like: • How can I afford to have a baby right now? • Where can I find information about insurance, hospitals and doctors? • How will I tell my family? • Where will I live? • How can I continue my education? • How will a pregnancy affect my job? • What support and resources are available if I choose to raise my baby? We also offer material assistance (maternity clothes, baby clothes, diapers, baby supplies, etc.) and support groups for expecting moms and new parents. Additionally, we have access to a large network of local resources — including referrals for healthcare, housing, food, clothing and employment. If your current life circumstances are making a decision to continue with your pregnancy difficult, let Aid for Women offer you our assistance and support. We will help you during your pregnancy and in planning a future for yourself and your baby. We care about you and will help you find the courage and resources you need.
FOR THOUGHT “Woman naturally seeks to embrace that which is living, personal, and whole. To cherish, guard, protect, nourish and advance growth is her natural, maternal yearning.” — St. Edith Stein 19
“I am so grateful I came to Aid for Women when I found out that I was pregnant. I was feeling confused and lost and was going to make the worst decision of my life. They helped me every step of the way, calling to check up on me and making sure everything was going okay.” — Tacorra
Could adoption be a good plan for me and my baby? If current circumstances in your life make parenting seem too difficult, you may want to consider an adoption plan. Many women consider abortion because they feel that it is not the right time to have a baby. Adoption is a way to give your baby a future. Adoption can provide both a loving and life-giving choice for the mom, baby and adoptive family. Benefits of choosing adoption include: • You can pursue education and career plans; • You can live independently; • You will not parent before you are ready; • You will have plenty of time to plan your future and your baby’s future; • You can choose to have continued contact with your baby (in open adoption) and know how he or she is growing and developing. It is important to understand the adoption option and to make a fully-informed decision. At Aid for Women, you can learn how the adoption process works and clear up any myths. Adoption has changed drastically over the years, and you now have many more options in making an adoption plan. Although Aid for Women is not an adoption agency, you will not be alone in this decision. Our advocates will provide you with accurate information and direct you to a licensed adoption agency to learn more about this loving and courageous choice.
DID YOU KNOW? As the birth mother, you are in control when you make an adoption plan. You have the option of choosing the adoptive couple and deciding how involved you would like to be in your baby’s life. You can choose an open, semi-open or confidential adoption plan. 20
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FOR THOUGHT “God does not ask of us the perfection of tomorrow, nor even of tonight, but only of the present moment.” — St. Madeleine Sophie Barat 22
Heather’s House and Monica’s House Aid for Women’s Maternity Homes Heather’s House and Monica’s House provide safe and supportive places to call home for women who are pregnant, parenting or making an adoption plan. Residents have the opportunity to develop many important life skills, while pursuing educational and career goals. Programming includes: • pregnancy support
• one-on-one mentoring
• parenting training
• spiritual growth
• educational assistance
• life skills classes
• employment assistance
• follow-up services
What is the application process? Your Aid for Women advocate will help you assess your current living situation and possible options that are available to you during and after your pregnancy. If it is determined that you are a candidate for our maternity home program, your advocate will review the eligibility requirements and resident responsibilities with you. You will then be asked to complete an application and to meet for an interview.
“As a resident of Heather’s House, I have been able to begin providing the best life for me and my son by continuing school and work. I know it won’t be easy, but I’ve learned that I have the ability to overcome hardships.” — Janessa
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Contact us. We’re here to help! 24-hour helpline Call or text: (312)621-1100 Visit our website: aidforwomen.org Schedule your appointment online at
aidforwomen.org AID FOR WOMEN FREE SERVICES • pregnancy tests • ultrasound exams • confidential options consultations • abortion pill reversal • medical and community referrals • support programs • maternity homes
AID FOR WOMEN LOCATIONS Chicago Loop 8 S. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1418, Chicago, IL
Oak Park 1515 N. Harlem Avenue, Suite 203, Oak Park, IL
Carbondale 2015 W. Main Street, Carbondale, IL
Rockford 1235 N. Mulford Road, Suite 210, Rockford, IL
Edgewater 6145 N. Broadway Street, Chicago, IL
Waukegan 1334 N. Lewis Avenue, Waukegan, IL
Flossmoor 3347 Vollmer Road, Flossmoor, IL
Wheeling 115 N. Wolf Road, Wheeling, IL
Contact us for hours and appointments.