Frequently Asked Questions

Q. I think that I might be pregnant, but I'm not sure. How can I find out?
A. There are several ways to find out if you are pregnant, ranging from a self test that you can purchase at a local drug store to having a doctor conduct a pregnancy test, but one of the best ways is to visit a Crisis Pregnancy Center(CPC) near you. The tests are free as well as counseling, informational material, and other resources. To locate a CPC near you, go to the "Find a Pregnancy Center" section of this web site.

Q. I know that I'm pregnant, but I don't know what my options are. How can I find out?
A. OPTIONS MAGAZINE explains, in detail, all of the options for an unplanned pregnancy. For all of the latest information about your options, healthcare during your pregnancy, where you can go for help, and much more, go to the "Options Magazine Articles" on line on this site.

Q. What is a Crisis Pregnancy Center (CPC) and what services do they provide?
A. Crisis Pregnancy Centers are free service providers that can help with the difficult challenges you might face throughout your pregnancy, from the pregnancy test through the delivery of your baby and beyond.

Q. If I would like to learn more about adoption, whom can I talk to?
A. There are many options for learning more about adoption. One of the best ways is to speak with an adoption professional who will know all of the details of the adoption process. You can locate an adoption professional on this site in the "Find an Adoption Professional" section.

Q. Where can I go on the internet to learn more about adoption?
A. There are many sources of information about adoption on the internet, ranging from public information sources like the National Council for Adoption at www.adoptioncouncil.org and the National Adoption Information Clearinghouse at www.calib.com/naic to private agencies and organizations like American Adoptions at www.americanadoptions.com. You can also look in the "Find an Adoption Professional" section of this web site to locate an adoption professional that has a web site.

Q. If I don't have medical insurance or Medicaid, how can I get it?
A. Every state funds Medicaid coverage separately so contact an adoption professional or your local county health department for more information.

Q. Do my parents have to be involved in my decisions or sign a consent?
A. Although individual state laws vary and it is best to consult an attorney or adoption professional in your area, currently a parent's involvement is not needed for you to choose the best option for your pregnancy.

Q. How will my diet affect my pregnancy?
A. The most important thing to remember is that every thing that goes into your body affects your child during pregnancy. Take a look at articles "Why Do I Need Pre-Natal Care?" or "What's on the Menu" in the "Options Magazine Articles" section of this site.

Q. What effect do cigarettes, alcohol, or drugs have on my unborn baby?
A. There is a range of possible consequences to your baby when you use cigarettes, alcohol, or drugs during pregnancy, but all of are harmful. To learn more, go to "What's on the Menu" in the "Options Magazine Articles" section.

Q. What symptoms are normal during a pregnancy?
A. Your body will be going through a lot of changes during your pregnancy so it is important to remember that many of those changes are normal. You can expect weight gain, appetite changes, water retention, and mood swings to name a few. Regular check ups with your doctor are important to monitor these changes. To read more go to "Where Has My Body Gone?" in the "Options Magazine Articles" section.