When you get the news that you’re pregnant and you weren’t planning for it, one of the most difficult parts is the uncertainty. A few questions you may be thinking about include:

• What does an abortion procedure look like? How do I know if I qualify?
• What would it look like to choose adoption?

Read this article for a better understanding of the outcomes of both choices. At Friends for Life Pregnancy, we also offer options consultations so that you can ask questions and get information about your options in a safe space.

You can also schedule a no-cost appointment to discuss what each option might look like for you. 

What to Know About Abortion

While you should understand the risks that can come with an abortion (like any medical procedure), make sure you also know how it could affect you in other areas, such as mental health.

One study shows that some women who undergo an abortion have elevated levels of mental illness compared to those without an abortion. 

Abortion Risks

There is always some element of risk that comes with a surgical or medical abortion. 

According to the Mayo Clinic, the risks of surgical abortion include :

• Perforation of the uterus
• Damage to the cervix
• Scar tissue on the uterine wall
• Infection

The risks of medical abortion include:

• Infection
• Fever 
• Digestive system discomfort
• Heavy, prolonged bleeding
• Incomplete abortion (which may require surgical treatment)
• An ongoing pregnancy (if the drugs don’t work)

At our center, we provide no-cost, limited ultrasounds to provide critical information about your pregnancy and health, including how far along you are. This detail is needed before you make any decision, because it helps determine which options are available. 

Abortion is illegal in Arkansas unless deemed necessary to save the life of a pregnant woman during a medical emergency. We can answer your questions to ensure you’re fully informed about your options and can make an educated decision. 

What to Know About Adoption

When you choose adoption, you control your plan and select the adoptive family. Options include open adoption with ongoing (optional) contact, semi-open adoption using an agency or attorney for communication with the adoptive family, and closed adoption, which offers complete confidentiality about your identity.

Agencies or families may cover medical and living expenses, and you never pay adoption fees.

We offer a confidential space to discuss this option and determine the available resources. If you are interested in learning more, we can provide referrals to reputable adoption agencies in the area who can answer your questions and explain the process. 

We’re Here for You

Only you can make the choice that’s best for you, and we’ll ensure you get the facts on all your options.

Contact us at Friends for Life Pregnancy Center to make an informed, confident choice.