ISSUES | ARE YOU PREGNANT?
Are You Pregnant?
There is no doubt that a welcomed, loved child is a gift from God and a blessing to a joyful family. Yet, not every pregnancy is welcomed. Women and their families who are dealing with unwelcome or problem pregnancies often have religious, spiritual, and theological questions. If you are pregnant or think you are facing an unintended pregnancy and have spiritual concerns you want to address as you consider your options, please consider reading the following:
Considering Abortion? Clarifying What You Believe
Please remember that it is important to talk to someone you trust — a family member, a close friend, or a member of the clergy. You should also consult a member of the medical profession to discuss your options and what would be best for you and your health.
The Religious Coalition's All Options Clergy Counseling service is available in some states and provides supportive counseling by trained clergy. Contact your local affiliate to find out if they offer this service. Some religious denominations offer information and counseling for women with an unwelcome or unintended pregnancy. Please contact your clergyperson for more information or check individual websites.
Please note that the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice is an educational and advocacy organization and is not able to provide medical advice or assistance. However, other organizations can help you with information on pregnancy, abortion, adoption, and family planning. They can also help you find someone in your community who can help you make the decision that is right for you. These are a few resources:
National Adoption Directory Search
Note: These listings are provided by the National Adoption Information Clearinghouse, a service of the Administration for Children and Families of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The listings should not be construed as an endorsement or recommendation. Some private adoption agencies listed here may offer only limited and biased counseling and in some cases will actively discourage women from considering abortion. Some agencies may even discriminate on the basis of religion and/or sexual orientation. Please investigate agencies carefully. Be sure to check with your state adoption agency.
National Council for Adoption
A non-profit organization
American Society for Reproductive Medicine
Facts about Adoption
American Academy of Family Physicians
Making An Adoption Plan
Planned Parenthood Federation of America
1-800-230-PLAN
www.ppfa.org
National Abortion Federation
202-667-5881
www.prochoice.org
Exhale
A post-abortion telephone counseling service for women who have had abortions, to support and respect each person's individual situation, free from stigma and judgment. http://www.4exhale.org
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