Louisiana abortion safety checklist.

Louisiana Abortion Safety Checklist

Louisiana abortion safety checklist.

Abortion Safety

Your health and well-being are paramount. Your local Louisiana pregnancy center understands that this is your pregnancy, your future, and ultimately, your choice. Their commitment is to support and empower you, ensuring you have all the necessary information to make a decision you feel confident about.

If you find yourself uncertain or have questions, we warmly invite you to speak with their knowledgeable staff or medical team.

Considering an Abortion?
Follow Our Abortion Safety Checklist:

1. Confirm Your Pregnancy

A standard pregnancy test does not provide a complete confirmation of pregnancy. An ultrasound, which an Louisiana pregnancy center provides at no cost, will confirm the presence of a pregnancy within the uterus and determine its stage. This is essential as it affects the types of abortion procedures available to you. 

2. Understand the Risks

Like any medical intervention, abortions carry their own set of risks, both immediate and long-term. We recommend discussing these with our medical professionals to fully understand the potential impacts on your health.

3. Consider All Alternatives

Making an informed decision involves exploring every available option—abortion, adoption, or parenting. This choice is deeply personal, and taking the time to consider all possibilities will equip you with the assurance to make the best decision for yourself.

4. Get Tested for STDs/STIs

Undergoing an abortion with an untreated STD/STI can increase the risk of developing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which may lead to future infertility or chronic pain. We offer free referrals for comprehensive STD/STI testing and treatment to safeguard your health.

5. Take a Moment to Reflect

When faced with a significant decision, it’s beneficial to pause and reflect on your feelings and concerns. Visit your local Louisiana pregnancy clinic to discuss your thoughts and questions, ensuring you are fully prepared to make an informed choice about your pregnancy.

Questions For You

Question: Has your pregnancy been medically confirmed?

Answer: Even if you’ve had a positive pregnancy test, you will need an ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy, determine how far along you are, and rule out an ectopic or tubal pregnancy.  As many as 1 in 4 pregnancies end in a natural miscarriage, and more than 80% of miscarriages occur in the first three months of pregnancy.

Question: Are you aware of which abortion procedure is appropriate for you?

Answer: Consider all your options. At your local pregnancy center you can receive a pre-abortion screening at no-cost by a medical professional.

Question: Do you understand the details of the abortion procedure and what to expect afterwards?

cnswer: At your local pregnancy Center you can receive a pre-abortion screening at no-cost by a medical professional.

Question: Are you informed about the possible physical and emotional risks and complications associated with the abortion procedure?

Answer: You deserve to be informed with all the facts. At your local pregnancy center you can receive a pre-abortion screening at no-cost by a medical professional.

Question: Does the clinic you have chosen commit to providing care for any complications that may arise?

Answer: Remember, you are not alone in navigating this decision. We encourage you to take the time you need to consider all aspects of your choice. If you have any questions, need more information, or simply wish to talk to someone who understands, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Question: Do you know that it is completely acceptable to change your mind?

Answer: Many women who have experienced abortion relate that they felt they could not change their mind once they had entered the facility. Others say that they waited on the table to be “rescued” by the baby’s father at the last minute. Some facilities even told the women that they couldn’t get their money back if they changed their mind, which is not legal.

Abortion providers understand this choice is a difficult decision and can work to encourage you to abort even as they say, “I simply can’t do this!” Know your rights. Don’t be pressured or intimidated, particularly by the clinic staff. If you are not sure about your abortion decision, you can change your mind. If the procedure is not performed, demand your money back.

Question: Have there been any legal actions against the clinic or its physicians?

Answer: Abortion is legal in the United States, but bad medical care is not. Women have died as a result of their “safe and legal abortions.” Some have had their bodies harmed to the point that they can no longer have children. Be sure and do your research.

Question: Is a licensed physician required to perform a surgical abortion?

Answer: Yes, only a licensed physician can perform an abortion, regardless of the type of abortion or the facility where it takes place.

Question: When was your last STD/STI test?

Answer: An untreated infection can cause complications if not treated before an abortion. Many local pregnancy centersoffers free STI testing.

Question: Have you received information about the abortion pill and surgical abortion options?

Answer: Pregnancy centers are committed to ensuring that your decision is an empowered one, rooted in full awareness and understanding. During your initial visit, they will provide detailed information about the various types of abortion procedures and thoroughly discuss all your pregnancy options with you.

Question: Are you aware of the complications related to the abortion procedure and emotional aftereffects?

Answer: Your local pregnancy center offers complimentary medical consultations with one of their nurses during your ultrasound exam. This session gives you the opportunity to discuss your health history, address any concerns about potential complications or side effects, and openly talk about your feelings regarding the abortion process. We encourage you to take the time needed to ensure you are fully informed and supported.

Question: Do you feel any external pressure to proceed with an abortion?

Answer: It is against the law for anyone to force you to have an abortion. Not even a husband or parent can require you to undergo an abortion against your will, even if you are a minor (under 18 years old). Pregnancy centers exist to help you in any circumstance. They can even help you discuss this choice with those closest to you that are influencing your decision. 

Louisiana Pregnancy Centers

Louisiana pregnancy centers are located in all major cities including New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Kenner, Bossier City, Monroe, Alexandria, Houma, and even many smaller cities.

Most Louisiana pregnancy centers listed offer free and confidential services including medical grade pregnancy tests and ultrasound exams.

Lily of the Valley Ministries
3746 Government Street
Alexandria, LA 71302
318-442-4504

Cenla Pregnancy Center
1254 MacArthur Dr
Alexandria, LA 71315
318-314-3061

Women’s Life Ministries
109 E Mulberry St
Amite, LA 70422
905-747-0602

Louisiana Pregnancy Problem Center
3005 Florida Street
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
225-924-1400

Woman’s New Life Center
761 Colonial Drive
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
225-663-6470

Louisiana Women’s Help Center
7515 Scenic Highway
Baton Rouge, LA 70874
225-359-9001

Care Pregnancy Clinic
3813 N Flannery Rd
Baton Rouge, LA 70814
225-275-0100

Northlake CPC
19348 N. 4th Street
Covington, LA 70433
985-893-4281

Pregnancy Care Center
422 McMahon Street
Deridder, LA 70634
337-463-9500

The Unexpected Pregnancy Center
1101 Northwest Blvd
Franklin, LA 70538
337-321-6298

Westbank Pregnancy & Family Care Center
539 Lafayette St
Gretna, LA 70053
800-712-2357

Hope Restored for Life
1181 W. Tunnel Blvd, Suite E
Houma, LA 70360
985-872-4994

Heart of Hope
10420 Heart of Hope Way
Keithville, LA 71047
318.925.4663

Women’s Center of Lafayette
1331 Jefferson Street
Lafayette, LA 70501
337-289-9366

A Pregnancy Center and Clinic
913 S. College Rd. Ste. 206
Lafayette, LA 70503
337-232-5509

Louisiana Pregnancy Services
631 E. School Street
Lake Charles, LA 70607
337-474-7003

ABC Pregnancy Resource Center
510 W. 18th St
Lake Charles, LA 70601
337-433-2797

New Life Crisis Pregnancy Center
302 W. Courthouse Street
Leesville, LA 71446
337-239-9863

Avoyelles Pregnancy Center
115 Ferdinand St. Suite 3
Marksville, LA 71351
318.545.2330

Access Pregnancy Center
921 Aris Ave Suite B
Metairie, LA 70005
504-832-1503

Seeds Women's Center
402 Broadway St.
Minden, LA 71058
318-639-0907

The Vine of NE Louisiana
2904 Evangeline Street
Monroe, LA 71201
318-512-4174

Women's Resource Center
107 North Street
Natchitoches, LA 71457
318-357-8888

The Unexpected Pregnancy Center
117 E. Pershing Street
New Iberia, LA 70560
337-321-6298

Women's New Life Center
4612 S. Claiborne Ave
New Orleans, LA 70125
504-831-3117

Life Choices Pregnancy Center
606 Belue Lane
Ruston, LA 71270
318-202-2021

Mary’s House Pregnancy Care Center
906 Margaret Place
Shreveport, LA 71101
318-220-8009

Care Pregnancy Center
921 Shreveport-Barksdale Hwy
Shreveport, LA 71135
318-861-4600

Crisis Pregnancy Help Center
550 Gause Boulevard – Suite 2
Slidell, LA 70458
504-233-2832

Crossroads Pregnancy Resource Ctr
105 St Louis St
Thibodaux, LA 70301
985-492-6604

Avoyelles Pregnancy Center
4951 Hwy 84 West
Vidalia, LA 71373
318-248-8889

Louisiana is located in the southern United States and is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant music scene, and unique cuisine. New Orleans is its largest city and a major cultural hub. Louisiana's geography includes a mix of coastal wetlands, river deltas, and rolling plains, with a humid subtropical climate that features hot, humid summers and mild winters. As of 2022, the population of Louisiana is projected to be 4.59 million. Universities in Louisiana include: Louisiana State University, University of Louisiana, University of New Orleans, and many other colleges and universities. The capital is Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Do I need an appointment?

Answer: Walk-ins are welcome. However, it is best to make an appointment to minimize your office wait time. 

Question: What is the cost?

Answer: All services are free and confidential.

Question: What should I expect when I come for my visit?

Answer: Upon your arrival, a friendly receptionist will guide you to meet your client advocate. This advocate will offer you a judgment-free space to talk, followed by essential information and a pregnancy test. In the event of a positive test result, a dedicated medical professional will perform a limited ultrasound to verify the pregnancy's viability and estimate the age of the fetus.

Question: How long after sex does it take for a pregnancy test to work and how accurate is the test?

Answer: Pregnancy tests can be performed 7 to 10 days after conception. A client with a negative result may be invited to return within 2 weeks for a repeat test if she has not had her period.

If you have taken a home pregnancy test, you may want to confirm results with a laboratory-quality test at your local pregnancy center. These pregnancy tests detect HCg levels within 7 to 10 after conception.

Question: Will you tell anyone about my visit?

Answer: Pregnancy centers maintain a rigorous privacy and confidentiality policy. Clients' information is safeguarded against unauthorized disclosure, respecting their right to privacy, except in instances mandated by law. This includes situations necessary for public health, preventing harm to the client or others, or in specific circumstances where the use or disclosure of information is justified without prior consent, such as in cases of abuse reporting or suicide/homicide prevention.

Question: When should I schedule an appointment?

Answer: High-quality, medical-grade pregnancy tests are capable of detecting pregnancy from the first day after your initial missed period. We advise scheduling an appointment if you've missed a period, have any queries related to pregnancy, or suspect that you might be pregnant.

Question: How far along do I have to be to get a free ultrasound?

Answer: After an initial consultation with a client advocate, many pregnancy centers offer on-site ultrasound scans. These limited ultrasounds are conducted by a licensed nurse sonographer or a registered diagnostic medical sonographer (RDMS) and are subsequently reviewed by a licensed physician. The purpose of an ultrasound is to confirm the viability of the pregnancy and to establish the gestational age. 

Question: I already know I'm pregnant and I want an abortion, what's next?

Answer: It is advisable to have an ultrasound to confirm the viability of your pregnancy and to ensure it is located within the uterus, as 20% to 25% of pregnancies end in miscarriage. Moreover, the ultrasound helps in determining the stage of your pregnancy, which is essential in making an informed decision about the type of abortion procedure you may consider. Many pregnancy centers offer a limited ultrasound free of charge.

Client Reviews

from clients like you!

Pregnancy center review 5.

Excellent Facility.

"Was recommended to me while I was going through a difficult time during my pregnancy and has just lost my job. They helped me with counseling, bible studies, support and lots of things for me and my baby. I am very grateful to have found them and all the help they have provided to me and my children." Angelina
Pregnancy center review 3.

These Ladies Deserve a 10 star Review!!!

"My experience was beautiful. The atmosphere was just what I needed. My husband and I found them on Google, and we decided to visit them after reviewing the amazing reviews. I must say they were very professional and caring. This is not your regular sonography center; they take their time to go through the entire process with you with so much love and care for FREE. May God continue to empower you ladies to keep up the great work you all are doing for the community to help all women. God bless you ladies!" Kayla
Pregnancy center review 2.

Me and My Partner’s Experience Was Excellent!

"Our experience with them was excellent! Their response time is superb, calling the same day. They are very kind and they served the highest quality of their medical promise, not to mention it all being free. We were shown many resources that needy couples do not easily find. The environment is very home-like providing a space which is comfortable. The sonographers are down-to-earth and engage in comforting conversation before, during and after the sonogram. They are willing to keep in touch with you, and they will refer you to their extended team if you need help (i.e., free clinics, abortion references, insurance). I recommend pregnancy centers 100%, and if you are a woman or a couple which needs help, there isn't a better place to go. This team is not here to make a buck out of you: they care about you and will go above and beyond to do all they can to help you." Lamyka
Pregnancy center review 4.

Very Professional and Clean Environment.

"I will definitely recommend them. They speak both English and Spanish to help those who don’t understand English all that well. Took a friend there who believed she was pregnant and with their help she found out she was. Thank you so much." Stella
Pregnancy center review 1.

I Had a Wonderful Experience.

"I was nervous and had many questions before I got there. I was educated on what to expect and was given a lot of useful information. This experience made my husband and I feel so much better we are excited about our new journey as parents. I would highly recommend this company and their wonderful staff to guide you on your journey. The ultrasound went smoothly and the ladies here are incredibly kind and wonderful people. I was so excited to see our ultrasound. Definitely would recommend to all women that are looking confidential, smooth, wonderful experience. I am extremely grateful for their kindness, professionalism, and their care." Alisha
Pregnancy center review 6.

A HUGE Blessing.

"The times I have interacted with our local pregnancy center have always proved to be a great experience. The work they do not only to help women in times of need with heartfelt compassion, but after that with assisting them with material goods such as diapers, car seats, etc. is awesome. Their devotion to helping women is truly inspiring." Theresa

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