The post What Prenatal Genetic Testing and Gender Blood Tests Can and Can’t Tell You. first appeared on Care Net of Puget Sound.
]]>We also understand that prenatal genetic testing can sometimes add even more uncertainty, especially when results are unclear or unexpected. These blood tests are screening tools, not definitive diagnoses. Let’s look at what prenatal genetic testing is, what the results mean, its accuracy, if it’s the right next step for you.
Please note: this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a healthcare professional for medical concerns or emergencies.
Prenatal genetic testing is an optional blood test typically done after 10 weeks of pregnancy that screens for certain chromosomal conditions or genetic disorders a fetus may have.
There are two types of prenatal testing: screening tests and diagnostic tests.
Screening tests estimate the likelihood of a condition being present, but they cannot diagnose a disorder. Diagnostic tests are used to confirm whether a condition actually exists.
Because screening tests are not definitive, false positives and false negatives can happen. An abnormal result does not automatically mean the fetus has a condition, and a normal result cannot completely rule one out.
Depending on the results, healthcare providers may recommend follow-up diagnostic testing for confirmation. Invasive diagnostic tests (such as CVS and amniocentesis) can increase the risk of miscarriage, so it is important to discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
For some women, prenatal testing provides reassurance and helps them prepare for the future. For others, it may create additional stress or anxiety during pregnancy. This is one reason some women choose to wait for second-trimester routine screening and ultrasound.
There are different brands and types of Noninvasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) which can vary in scope of what genetic conditions they test for and their accuracy.
Most NIPT screens for:
Many tests can also identify fetal sex by detecting Y chromosomes in the mother’s blood sample.
NIPT cannot diagnose conditions, so it cannot tell you for certain if a fetus has a genetic disorder.
Not all testing screens for the same conditions. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about what screenings they offer, their accuracy, and whether NIPT is a good option for you. You can ask questions like:
An NIPT test’s primary purpose is to screen for genetic disorders. But it can confirm gender by picking up Y chromosomes which indicates a male. If there are no Y chromosomes, a female sex is predicted.
Accuracy of NIPT for predicting fetal sex is 99% accurate when done after 10 weeks of pregnancy.
Without a blood test, gender will be confirmed at a routine anatomy ultrasound appointment at 18 to 22 weeks.
A positive NIPT does not mean the fetus has been confirmed with a specific chromosomal condition. What it does mean is that there could be a higher risk of having one. Even a negative result doesn’t rule out the possibility of a condition, it just means it’s a lower chance. NIPT is a screening test, not a diagnostic test. It is merely telling you there is a possibility, and further diagnostic testing is recommended to confirm.
If you get testing done too early (before 10 weeks), the results could be less reliable due to only small amounts of the baby’s DNA in your blood.
A positive screening results should always be followed up with diagnostic testing to confirm the results and actually diagnose a disease.
A few things can cause a NIPT false positive:
This is why it is so important to consider all possibilities of a false positive before making any major decisions about the pregnancy.
NIPT is generally accurate in detecting Down Syndrome. False positives for Down Syndrome are about 0.1% to 0.2% of cases.
However, it is not as accurate at screening for other chromosomal abnormalities. NIPT is more likely to produce false positive or negatives for Trisomy 18 and 13.
It depends on the type of test you had. Results typically take 3-8 business days from the day your lab work is received.
Genetic testing and gender blood tests are completely optional. Figuring out what your personal beliefs and values are can help you make a decision that is best for you.
Are you a higher-risk pregnancy? Does your family have a history of genetic disorders? Are you a planner and want to be prepared? Do you just want the testing to determine the sex of the fetus? Will testing bring you peace of mind or worry?
Talk to your healthcare provider about your risk factors and if testing is necessary.
Will knowing or will not knowing the results give you more anxiety? Will the possibility of inaccurate results have you up at night worrying?
It’s okay to choose to not do something you’re not comfortable with.
If you are a planner, you might want to know if the fetus will have a genetic defect to start planning medically, emotionally, and financially. Others may face difficult decisions about how they want to move forward in their pregnancy.
Talking to a licensed medical professional can help you through this thought process. We are here for you.
Pregnancy can be overwhelming. There’s a lot of new information and decisions coming your way. Care Net of Puget Sound’s compassionate team of licensed medical professionals and client advocates are here to offer medical support and support through your pregnancy all at no cost.
You are not alone.
The post What Prenatal Genetic Testing and Gender Blood Tests Can and Can’t Tell You. first appeared on Care Net of Puget Sound.
]]>The post How to make a pregnancy decision together. first appeared on Care Net of Puget Sound.
]]>You both had a part to play in this pregnancy, and both of your voices matter as you think through what comes next. But what does that actually look like? Let’s walk through some practical steps you can take together.
Both of your voices matter in this decision, because this impacts both of you.
While the woman might be the one carrying the pregnancy, the man still has an important role to play. Shared responsibility sets the tone for everything that follows.
If you are pregnant, you may be carrying a lot of the physical and emotional weight right now. If you trust your partner, it’s okay to lean on them for support. It’s also okay to acknowledge that your partner is likely experiencing many of the same emotions you are, even if they look a bit different. Learn what’s going on in his head during an unexpected pregnancy in our article here.
If your partner is pregnant, this is your moment to step up with empathy and presence. Avoid minimizing, pressuring, or withdrawing. This is your moment to step into responsibility and become the person you want to be.
Healthy acknowledgment of each of your roles can sound like:
Even if you don’t have a healthy relationship or aren’t sure you want to stay with your partner, this situation still requires careful thought and responsibility. And you’re not without options. Supporting the child without being closely connected to your partner or learning to co-parent is an option. Care Net of Puget Sound can help you determine what this might look like for you both.
Starting here creates a foundation of shared responsibility, not blame or control, but being on the same team.
Be honest with your partner about what you’re scared of and what makes you excited, even if that excitement comes and goes. Clearly communicate what you are leaning towards in this pregnancy decision.
Try using active listening. Repeat back what your partner says to you. This shows them that you’re not only listening but care enough to try and understand.
Healthy communication and trust are key to making sure both voices are heard and a confident decision is made together. If you’re considering abortion, you might find it helpful to read our article “How Many Relationships Stay Together After Abortion” to learn about how an abortion decision might affect your relationship.
Even when you communicate well, you may not initially see things the same way. That’s okay.
Open, honest conversations are meant to help you understand where your partner is coming from. They may even help you see the situation from a different perspective. Respecting differences while staying connected strengthens your relationship during uncertain moments.
The goal is understanding over quick reactions, and partnership over isolation. If you are pregnant and he wants you to get an abortion but you’re unsure, you’re not alone. Take a moment to read our article about what to do in this situation here: “My Boyfriend Wants Me to Get an Abortion.”
One important thing in discussing a pregnancy decision is factoring in accurate information about your pregnancy.
Confirming the viability of the pregnancy and understanding all of your options (financial, medical, emotional, etc.) can help make your decision clear.
Care Net of Puget Sound offers free pregnancy testing and ultrasounds to confirm the pregnancy is progressing properly and to rule out a miscarriage or life-threatening ectopic pregnancy. Going to this appointment together can help you both feel unified and informed in your decision making. Receiving medical insight from someone who cares about your situation can also bring peace of mind as you move forward.
Talk about what you both value most. This might include family, career goals, freedom, stability, or health. These core values often guide major life decisions.
Understanding what matters most to each of you can help you consider how this pregnancy fits into your values. It may also require shifting what you thought your life would look like, sometimes into something unexpectedly beautiful.
You’ll also want to discuss practical realities together like:
An unexpected pregnancy may shift the picture you had for your life, but growth often happens in seasons of change. These conversations can help you step into becoming the people you want to be.
If conversation feels stuck or unproductive, it might be helpful to bring in someone you trust.
People outside of your situation can see things in a different light and are able to give advice without the emotional weight you may be carrying.
Our client advocates and male mentors at Care Net of Puget Sound are ready to listen, offer understanding, and connect you to resources and programs. Their goal is not only to help you make a decision together, but to help you both thrive in your relationship and home.
Whatever you choose, stay emotionally connected and check in often.
Once a decision is made, the journey isn’t over. Continue offering reassurance, empathy, and support. Walking through this together, before, during, and after the decision, strengthens trust and unity in your relationship.
Care Net of Puget Sound in Washington State offers free services for couples navigating an unexpected pregnancy. We offer pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, STI testing and treatment, pregnancy options consultations, relationship classes, and men’s mentorship programs.
We know pregnancy can sometimes feel isolating and next steps can be confusing. You don’t have to do this alone.
The post How to make a pregnancy decision together. first appeared on Care Net of Puget Sound.
]]>The post When You Don’t Feel Ready: Unplanned Pregnancy and Becoming a Dad first appeared on Care Net of Puget Sound.
]]>You’re not ready, you don’t know what this looks like, you don’t have the financial security you want, you’re not even sure your relationship and situation is a good environment to bring a child into.
Unplanned pregnancy comes with lots of questions and unknowns. But it doesn’t all have to be so overwhelming. Let’s look at how unexpected moments like this can shape you, not just your future.
You are not the only one who faces worries when she tells you she’s pregnant. Many men have expressed mixed initial emotions of shock, fear, and excitement.
This moment changes things. While that might feel overwhelming right now, it doesn’t have to mean it’s for the worse. What you’re feeling is real. It’s okay to sit with those fears and figure out where they’re coming from.
Talking openly with your partner will help you feel less alone. She is experiencing an array of complex emotions around this too. You might be afraid you’ll fail her. Or that you’ll repeat mistakes you swore you wouldn’t. Or that this will cost you the life you thought you were building. Talk to her about these things. Walking through this together can help you process what you are both feeling and what comes next. Read more about how to talk to your partner and make a pregnancy decision together here.
When the pregnancy test reads positive, the pressure of responsibility can feel like it’s rising quickly. Recognize and validate that it is real. The weight of responsibility can feel uncomfortable.
But not all pressure is inherently bad. Pressure in a healthy capacity can actually be a good thing, as it motivates you to grow in resilience, relational communication, and personal growth.
This pressure you’re feeling might actually be the thing that helps push you to overcome obstacles, build skills in problem solving, and learn to adapt to life’s unexpected turns.
It might be helpful to look at this internal pressure as a “challenge to rise to” rather than something threatening you can’t manage.
Growth and responsibility doesn’t usually feel comfortable, but it builds character and a confidence that is unshakable.
You had a plan for how things were going to look – and now reality looks different. It’s okay to acknowledge that this was not part of the plan. It’s okay to grieve the future you thought you were building. That takes time to accept that no amount of rushing can provide.
Sometimes life holds the most rewarding things down a path we never would’ve imagined for ourselves. Some of the most meaningful growth happens when life does not go according to plan.
Looking back, are there any times in your life you went through a hardship you had to overcome? Are there any areas within that that ended up working out for your good?
An unplanned pregnancy is an opportunity to grow into a more grounded, responsible, and authentic version of yourself. Stepping up to be a supportive partner and protective father can bring a whole new depth and meaning to life, even if it doesn’t feel that way yet.
Many men say that becoming a father didn’t make them feel ready overnight, but it did give them a reason to grow in ways they never had before.
Research shows that fatherhood can be connected with important growth in men’s lives.
Many fathers report or demonstrate:
There is potential in you that might not have been required until now. You don’t have to have it all figured out today, but you do have a choice in how you respond.
The process of becoming something more is often worth overcoming the emotional and financial obstacles in front of you.
If you’re feeling stuck between fear and responsibility and are weighing your options, our male mentors can help you with next steps.
Life isn’t easy. You might be thinking abortion is the only option that makes sense right now because of financial, relational, and emotional dynamics.
Talking through these carefully, rather than rushing to a decision, will help you both decide what to do without the weight of pressure.
Our male mentors at Care Net of Puget Sound can help answer your questions like:
We can help you process these concerns and find the available resources and support you need.
Read more about how abortion could affect your relationship here.
Care Net of Puget Sound Men’s Program
At Care Net of Puget Sound, male mentors are available to walk through concerns with you in a practical, judgment-free space. We can help you think through finances, next steps, and how to support your partner well.
Our licensed medical professionals are here to provide medical care for your partner, so you can be sure there are no pregnancy complications and ensure what next steps are safest and right for you.
You may not feel ready today, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take it day by day.
Practical help is available.
The post When You Don’t Feel Ready: Unplanned Pregnancy and Becoming a Dad first appeared on Care Net of Puget Sound.
]]>The post What Is He Going to Think When I Tell Him I’m Pregnant? first appeared on Care Net of Puget Sound.
]]>You might be wondering how he will react, what he is really thinking, and how this is going to change things.
While every man is different, there are common emotional patterns many experience when they hear this news.
Here are five things that may be going through his mind.
When a man finds out his partner is pregnant, his first reaction is often a mix of shock, fear, and excitement or happiness.
Many men struggle to name or express what they are feeling. Even if he looks calm or acts distant, that doesn’t mean he doesn’t care. It’s important to remember this pregnancy affects him too, and what he’s feeling is just as real.
Instead of assuming what he feels, invite him into conversation with questions like:
Giving him space to process can help him understand his own emotions. Being open and honest can help you both feel less alone in this.
You can read more about how to tell your partner you’re pregnant in our article here.
The news of this pregnancy immediately confronts him with a variety of questions:
He’s questioning if he’s ready emotionally, financially, and practically.
A helpful conversation you can have together is evaluating your core values. He is already assessing where he is at, so identifying what you both value can help determine if where you are now can serve as a launchpad toward the life you want to build.
Some questions to start the conversation might look like:
Often, he’s not contemplating whether he wants to keep the pregnancy but questioning whether he can live up to the responsibility.
He is likely not feeling ready for this. And maybe you are too. When men talk about their lack of readiness, it’s usually tied to fear.
The most common reasons men don’t feel ready are:
For many men, “not ready” really means “I’m afraid I can’t do this well.” And the truth is, no one ever feels completely ready.
Ask yourselves if you would rather this decision be made from a place of fear or in knowing the opportunity this is giving you both. Being open and honest about what you’re afraid of can lay a foundation for building a realistic and achievable plan.
Even if he doesn’t say it out loud, he is likely going into problem-solving mode.
He’s trying to figure out logistics to his new reality:
At the core, he is trying to figure out how to prepare and provide.
For some men this is motivation to become the man he wants to be. For others, this feels like too much.
Start by letting him know it’s okay to voice what he wants, what he fears, and what kind of support he hopes to offer. He may need encouragement to see that he can grow into greater responsibility, both financially and emotionally. Remind him that this can be an opportunity to grow into the man he wants to be, to gain new purpose and drive.
Reframing fear can help you both see this unknown situation differently. Growth often comes through moments we didn’t plan.
Most men describe becoming a dad as something that creates meaning to life. They often use words like:
Men view fathers as providers and protectors for their children, and as supportive, loving partners. Even if he’s not sure about this pregnancy right now, his long-term view of fatherhood may be deeply meaningful as you guys navigate next steps.
Confidence doesn’t come from feeling ready. Reminding him of what he already believes about fatherhood and who he wants to become can help give him the confidence to step into this new role.
Care Net of Puget Sound Men’s Program
Unexpected pregnancy affects men too.
Our Men’s Program offers free support designed specifically for men facing unexpected pregnancy. It gives him space to:
He doesn’t have to navigate this alone – and neither do you.
The post What Is He Going to Think When I Tell Him I’m Pregnant? first appeared on Care Net of Puget Sound.
]]>The post Pregnancy and Abortion Questions? Use Our Live Nurse Chat. first appeared on Care Net of Puget Sound.
]]>Getting the right answers and care is important. We can walk alongside you as you navigate your questions and concerns.
Our Live Nurse Chat is a 24/7 safe and confidential place to talk with licensed nurses with real medical experience. Chatting with a nurse can assure you that you are getting the right medical care needed for your situation.
With us, no question is too personal. Our nurses listen carefully and provide medical advice while also recognizing the situational, relational, and emotional factors that impact your pregnancy decision.
Oftentimes in high stress situations, we just need someone to help us see things clearly. Your nurse will help reassure you and walk you through whatall your options look like – not just the one you may currently feel cornered into.
There’s something reassuring about knowing there is someone behind the messages who truly cares about you.
Our Nurse Chat is a text-based live chat designed to help give you quick, confidential answers to your pregnancy questions, abortion questions, and logical next steps. Our nurses are understanding and quick to offer medical advice that makes sure your health and safety remains top of mind.
When you open our nurse chat, you will be prompted to enter your name and phone number. Once you start a text message, our nurses will get in touch with you right away. Feel free to ask our nurses anything on your mind. There is no TMI or pressure with us.
Our nurses might suggest booking an appointment so you can get more information on options, along with financial, medical, legal, and emotional support. They can walk you through booking an appointment on a day that works best for you with the right services you need. And there is no need to worry about finances, our services are always free.
What you share with our nurses is 100% confidential. You can learn more about our privacy policies here.
If one of our nurses recommends booking an appointment, all of our services are 100% free and confidential as well.
We care about your whole story, not just getting you medical care. We would love to walk alongside you through this journey.
Care Net of Puget Sound’s Live Nurse Chat can be found at the bottom right of our website where it says “Nurses are online”. We are always just a text away – start chatting with a nurse online or book your no cost appointment today.
The post Pregnancy and Abortion Questions? Use Our Live Nurse Chat. first appeared on Care Net of Puget Sound.
]]>The post Is My Girlfriend Pregnant? first appeared on Care Net of Puget Sound.
]]>Let’s walk through reasons that might have caused her period to be late that aren’t pregnancy, figure out how to know if she really is pregnant, and what to do if she is.
It might seem obvious, but the first thing to do is to talk to your partner. Whether you had unprotected sex, experienced birth control failure (like a missed birth control pill or a condom breaking), or her period is late – talk to her. It might be scary, but asking her directly and calmly can help you understand what’s really going on.
Maybe you’ve suggested pregnancy testing just to be sure, but she is reluctant. Or maybe you think she might already know she’s pregnant, but she won’t talk to you. She might just need some more time to work up the courage to face a potential positive pregnancy test. Be patient and supportive. Reassure her that no matter what happens, you can work through things together.
In the meantime, let’s look at common reasons for a missed period.
There are many other reasons that might cause a missed or late period besides pregnancy. Here are just a few:
The most common first sign of pregnancy is a missed period. Here are a few other common symptoms:
Early pregnancy symptoms can be very similar to the symptoms she experiences before her period starts. The only way to know for sure if she is pregnant is to take a pregnancy test.
At-home pregnancy tests can be accurate, but taking one too early or not following the instructions carefully can affect the result. Care Net of Puget Sound offers free, confidential pregnancy testing so you can be sure.
It’s normal to not know what to say or the best way to support her. The best way to support her is by being a part of the conversation and pregnancy decision. Communication and honesty might seem simple, but they mean the world to her. Your voice matters in this conversation, too. Be patient, listen to her, and try to make a plan together.
A simple next step you can make together is to schedule a free pregnancy test and ultrasound. When facing an unexpected pregnancy, getting answers and knowing your pregnancy options can help alleviate a lot of worry and stress. Our compassionate staff can walk you through what the next steps might look like (like an ultrasound to see how far along she is and make sure the pregnancy is progressing properly) and what pregnancy options you have.
Don’t feel ready for all of this? Take a breath. You don’t have to do it alone. We also offer free, confidential services specifically for men facing unexpected pregnancies. We can connect you with men who have been through similar situations who can help you work through financial worries, relational struggles, stage of life, and whatever else is on your mind. This is the perfect opportunity to grow into the man you want to be.
Learn more about how to handle and process an unexpected pregnancy in this article “My Girlfriend is Pregnant. What Should I do?”
Don’t feel ready for this type of change? Read more in our article: “When You Don’t Feel Ready: Unplanned Pregnancy and Becoming a Dad.”
Take the next step with her.
We offer free pregnancy testing and ultrasounds to confirm pregnancy viability. If results show she is pregnant, we will walk you through each of your pregnancy options and next steps.
You are not alone.
The post Is My Girlfriend Pregnant? first appeared on Care Net of Puget Sound.
]]>The post What will my appointment at Care Net of Puget Sound look like? first appeared on Care Net of Puget Sound.
]]>When visiting Care Net of Puget Sound, you can take your next steps with confidence and clarity. Here’s what your visit will look like from the moment you walk through the doors to the moment you leave.
When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by professional, caring staff who are there to support you. Our goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable and respected, no matter your circumstances or the pregnancy options you’re considering.
Feel free to bring someone you trust with you for support if that will make you feel more comfortable. After your initial intake, they’ll be welcomed to join you for your appointment if that’s something you want.
First, we’ll ask for a form of photo ID to confirm your identity and ensure your information remains secure. This could be a driver’s license, school ID, or passport.
Next, you’ll meet with one of our client advocates and complete a confidential intake form. It’s a simple process designed to help us understand your situation and how we can best support you. If you’re still deciding what to do with your pregnancy, your client advocate will walk you through all of your options: abortion, adoption, parenting if that’s something you want.
This is where we can connect you with resources to help in your decision making. This may include medical care, financial assistance, housing options, parenting classes and more. We can connect you to the right support you need. We protect your personal health information and your privacy is always respected. All information is kept secure no matter your age, race, immigration status, income status, or any other arbitrary circumstance. To learn more about how we care for clients visit our Commitment to Care page.
After talking through your options and discussing any questions you might have, we will run a medical-grade urine pregnancy test. While at-home pregnancy tests are generally very accurate, they aren’t perfect. That’s why we offer free, in-clinic pregnancy testing to confirm your results and help you confidently explore your next steps.
If your pregnancy test is positive, we may offer a viability ultrasound. This can confirm how far along you are and check for viability (developing as expected and located in the uterus).
An ultrasound can clarify your options. If you’re considering abortion, knowing the gestational age and viability is important for knowing what type of abortions are available to you (the abortion pills or surgical). Every ultrasound is performed by a trained licensed medical professional and reviewed by one of our medical directors (OB/GYNs).
You will have the opportunity to talk through your results and options. This is a judgment-free conversation where you can talk openly about your feelings and explore your options. Whether you’re considering abortion, adoption, or parenting, we will provide unbiased information and resources to help you feel confident in your decision.
We understand that every situation is unique, and we’re here to ensure you feel empowered and informed. We do not provide or refer for termination services so you will not be pressured into purchasing a service or medication.
All our services are free of charge with no insurance required. You’ll receive the information and support you need without judgment or pressure.
Choosing Care Net of Puget Sound means you’re choosing professional, compassionate care in a safe, supportive environment. You don’t have to navigate this experience alone, we’re here to walk alongside you, providing the information and encouragement you need.
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]]>The post Care Net of Puget Sound or Planned Parenthood: Where to Go When You’re Pregnant? first appeared on Care Net of Puget Sound.
]]>At Care Net of Puget Sound, we believe every woman deserves quality care without financial stress. This means our services are always free. Other organizations such as Planned Parenthood will bill insurance or charge out of pocket for services. With us, you will never have to pay a penny or present insurance for any of our services.
We provide a wide variety of services at no cost like:
Care Net of Puget Sound goes beyond just medical care. We care about your situation, your mental wellbeing, and you as a whole person. That’s why we offer care that is specific to you and your circumstances.
We can connect you with government and community organizations for housing needs, medical assistance, food support, and more. We also provide practical resources like parenting classes, pregnancy supplies, after-abortion support, support for men, and more.
One of our clients shared, “Care Net offers a tremendous amount
of support, peace of mind, and compassion to moms and families from all walks of life. They offer help from conception to the ages of 4, and I am amazed by the generosity of the community.”
Our support doesn’t end when you walk out the doors. We are committed to walking alongside you for as long as you need.
An unexpected pregnancy can bring a mix of emotions. When visiting our clinic, you can share as much or as little as you’re comfortable with. Our caring staff takes the time to listen and provide a safe space where you’ll feel respected.
Another client shares about her experience, “Each woman there who helped or spoke with me did a great job at listening, informing me on certain topics, and giving me several options on how to go about the help I needed. Not to mention they are all so kind and caring.”
We offer a safe space to express your feelings and work through your concerns and explore all your options without pressure or judgment.
We offer a safe, confidential place to explore all your options so you can make an empowered decision that is best for you and your future.
One client expressed that she felt, “Uplifted and empowered through my visit, which made a significant difference in how I viewed my situation.”
Unlike Planned Parenthood, we never financially profit from any pregnancy decision you make. You will never feel rushed or pressured into a decision with us.
You deserve clear, factual medically accurate information about each of your options. We will ensure you leave with the knowledge you need, knowing you’re supported every step of the way. You will receive honest answers to your questions so you can make a fully informed decision.
One client shared, “They gave me plenty of brochures and information on free classes they provide, help with food, shelter, and many other necessary things for the next steps. This is definitely a great spot to start out when you are just finding out you’re pregnant, or think you’re pregnant.”
Your privacy matters. Care Net of Puget Sound protects your information, keeping your situation confidential. We respect your rights, regardless of race, age, immigration status, income, or any other factors. Your situation, medical history, and pregnancy decisions are 100% confidential with us.
In cases of abuse or sex trafficking, we will report to authorities. We are committed to helping women escape dangerous situations and preventing future harm to other women.
Choosing where to turn during an unexpected pregnancy is a personal decision. If you’re looking for free, compassionate care with no pressure in Washington State, Care Net of Puget Sound is an excellent choice. We are committed to your well-being, providing judgment-free care and the resources you need to feel empowered.
If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, you don’t have to go through it alone. Reach out to get the support and care you deserve.
The post Care Net of Puget Sound or Planned Parenthood: Where to Go When You’re Pregnant? first appeared on Care Net of Puget Sound.
]]>The post Abortion Pills Side Effects: What to Expect first appeared on Care Net of Puget Sound.
]]>Here is what you can expect after taking the pills and what each abortion pill’s side effects are.
The abortion pill, also referred to as a medical abortion, is a combination of two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. Each pill has a specific purpose in the abortion process and can bring about its own side effects and risks.
Mifepristone is what ends your pregnancy by blocking the effects of progesterone (the hormone that supports your pregnancy).
Common side effects that occur within 2 to 24 hours of taking the medication include:
Misoprostol is taken up to 48 hours after mifepristone. This drug softens the cervix, causes the uterus to contract, and prepares the body to expel the pregnancy.
This drug will cause intense cramping and heavy bleeding. Cramping and bleeding vary from woman to woman, but typically the most intense pain and heavy bleeding lasts for up to 24 hours as the embryo passes from the uterus. During this time, you will pass blood clots, some up to the size of a lemon. After the abortion is complete, heavy bleeding might last several weeks.
Common side effects that begin 1 to 4 hours after taking the medication include:
The abortion pill has a complication rate four times higher than a surgical abortion, and as many as 1 in 5 women will suffer a complication. It is important to know that the complication risk increases with gestational age.
More serious side effects from the abortion pill include:
A lot of women feel different emotions after having an abortion. Some feel relief, while some feel deep sadness. Emotional and mental side effects can be immediate or appear later as time passes.
Common mental/psychological symptoms after abortion may include:
These symptoms aren’t necessarily the result of the medication, but of the situation surrounding the abortion. So, these symptoms can vary from person to person.
Having a previous history of mental health problems or experiencing a sense of isolation may indicate a higher risk of depression after taking the abortion pill.
If you are experiencing emotions that are not typical for you, contact a mental health provider as soon as possible.
Emotional healing after an abortion is just as important as physical healing. At Care Net, we offer support after an abortion. We are a safe and confidential place for you to process your emotions after an abortion and find support from women who understand. Visit our website here to learn more.
If you are bleeding through more than one regular-sized sanitary pad per hour for more than two hours, run a fever over 100.4 F, or are passing blood clots the size of a lemon, visit your nearest emergency room.
For the emergency room staff to properly treat you, you must be truthful about taking the abortion pill.
If you are experiencing any emotional effects of abortion, it’s a good idea to talk to a medical professional as soon as possible.
We want to provide you with real answers. Learn more about the abortion pill and what pregnancy option is right for you at Care Net of Puget Sound. We believe you deserve to make an educated decision about what is best for you.
We provide free and medically accurate information on abortion but do not refer for or perform abortions.
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]]>The post Your Questions Answered: Inside Our Mobile Clinic first appeared on Care Net of Puget Sound.
]]>Our mobile medical clinic is designed to make STI and pregnancy care more convenient, comfortable, and close to home. We bring compassionate, confidential care directly to you, at no cost.
A mobile clinic is a staffed medical facility on wheels. It travels to different locations to provide healthcare services to people who may not have access to traditional clinics. Instead of coming to us, we bring the care to you.
Yes! Our mobile clinic meets all state healthcare standards. We are staffed with licensed medical professionals and trained advocates ready to answer your questions and provide you with confidential care. Inside, you’ll find everything you’d expect in a medical exam room: an ultrasound machine, an exam table, and a private consultation space.
Absolutely, we follow strict safety protocols. The clinic is sanitized between every appointment and regularly inspected to ensure a safe, comfortable, and professional environment for every patient.
You’ll receive the same quality of care you’d expect from a traditional clinic, just in a smaller, more personal space.
We provide the same high-quality medical services available at our physical locations, all at no cost:
Our goal is to make sure you get the information, care, and support you need, all in one visit.
All of our services (including medical services) are 100% free, with no insurance needed.
We understand finances and insurance are often a concern for women who find themselves in an unexpected pregnancy. That’s why we provide no-cost medical care, so you can focus on what matters most, your health and wellbeing.
During your ultrasound appointment, you’ll meet with a licensed registered nurse or RDMS and a client advocate.
Your arrival process will look slightly different depending on the location you are visiting.
When you arrive at our King County locations (Burien and Renton), you will be greeted by our mobile driver who will alert the staff you are there. At our Bellevue location, you will arrive and knock on the door to let us know you are there.
Our team is here to offer both medical care and emotional support. This is a safe, non-judgmental space to process what you are feeling and ask any questions.
You are welcome to bring a friend, partner, or family member along for support.
Your visit is completely confidential. The only people inside the clinic during your appointment will be your nurse and client advocate. Your information is never shared without your permission.
We encourage appointments, but walk-ins are welcome! Scheduling ahead just helps us minimize your wait time. You can call, text, or schedule online to book your visit.
You can find our mobile clinics’ hours and locations below:
Bellevue Mobile Clinic
Jubilee REACH
14200 SE 13th Place
Bellevue, WA 98007
Hours:
Mondays 10 am – 5 pm (STD Testing available)
Tuesdays 10 am – 5 pm (STD Testing available)
Thursdays 10 am – 3 pm
Fridays 10 am – 3 pm
Contact: 425-837-3643
Conveniently located on the campus of Jubilee Reach, 15 minutes from both Bellevue Square and Downtown Park.
*This location offers material assistance and parenting classes in addition to medical services*
Kent Mobile Clinic
1340 West Smith Street
Kent, WA 98032
Hours:
Tuesdays 9:30 am – 2:30 pm
*No STD Testing Available*
Contact: 206-926-7860
14859 1st Ave S
Burien, WA 98168
Hours:
Wednesdays 9:30 am – 2:30 pm
Contact: 206-926-7860
Conveniently located 30 minutes from Downtown Seattle and 15 minutes from the airport.
The mobile clinic is located in a parking lot provided for community use by a nearby church. We operate independently from the church.
1320 Auburn Way South
Auburn, WA 98002
Hours:
Thursdays 9:30 am – 2:30 pm
*STD Testing Available*
Contact: 206-926-7860
We want to make pregnancy care easy to access, private, and judgment-free, right where you are.
If you’re searching for a mobile medical clinic, free pregnancy testing, ultrasound services, or STI testing near you, we’re here for you.
Have more questions about our mobile medical clinics or want to find where one of the mobile clinics is located? Reach out.
The post Your Questions Answered: Inside Our Mobile Clinic first appeared on Care Net of Puget Sound.
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