Pro-abortion advocates have been successful in publicizing abortion as an option for women who experience unplanned pregnancies. But despite many of these abortion advocates calling themselves “pro-choice,” very few abortion advocates provide these women with any information about the other choices available to them.
At Open Arms Real Choices Clinic in Hayden, Idaho, we are unapologetically pro-life and do not offer any abortion services or refer our clients to abortion providers. Instead, we are a pregnancy resource center (PRC). We aim to help the women who come into our facility to learn about alternatives to abortion and to provide support when they choose life.
“Choice” means allowing women to make the choice that is right for them. That choice can only be legitimate when women make fully informed decisions. Sadly, the message coming from most pro-abortion advocates and facilities is that having a baby is always a wrong choice – that somehow, having a baby will ruin your life. But when you look into it, for people of conscience, nothing could be further from the truth.
An informed decision means knowing what all your options are and making a sound decision based on information, not acting out of panic or fear. Open Arms is here to help young women to see what the possibilities are. As an alternative to abortion, we teach women about what is involved in choosing parenting, co-parenting, or placing a baby with an adoptive family. Our approach underscores the importance of education and support during this critical decision-making process.
Parenting
One of the first fundamental choices a woman can consider when faced with an unplanned pregnancy is to parent her child. While it certainly comes with challenges, parenting is an enriching experience. Organizations like Open Arms Real Choices Clinic provide valuable resources, information, and support for young mothers to help them navigate this path. We offer classes on prenatal care, parenting skills, and financial planning, empowering women to make a well-informed choice that aligns with their values and goals.
Co-Parenting
Co-parenting with a partner or involving other family members can be a viable alternative. In some cases, individuals may find strength and support in sharing the responsibilities of raising a child with someone they trust. Open Arms can facilitate discussions and provide resources to help navigate the complexities of co-parenting, ensuring that the child’s best interests remain a priority.
Adoption
Adoption is another option that deserves careful consideration. There are various forms of adoption, including open, semi-open, and closed adoptions, each allowing different levels of contact between the birth mother and the adoptive family. Open Arms educates women about these adoption options and can connect them with reputable adoption agencies. As difficult as it may be, placing a baby with an adoptive family is a loving choice, offering the baby the opportunity to grow up in a caring and stable environment and giving a family a child that they desperately want and that they may not be able to have on their own. Placing a baby with an adoptive family enables birth mothers to provide their child with opportunities they may not be able to offer at the time of the pregnancy.
Make the Right Choice
Making a choice when faced with an unplanned pregnancy is not a decision to be taken lightly. The consequences of this choice are far-reaching and can last a lifetime. Women should educate themselves about all available options. When young women only consider abortion, they often fail to appreciate the genuine potential for experiencing post-abortion regret. While some may never experience it, others may grapple with it for years or even a lifetime. That is why it is so crucial for women to take time to consider their choices and make a decision that aligns with their personal beliefs and values, one that they can live with for the rest of their lives.
Open Arms Real Choices Clinic is a valuable resource for women facing an unplanned pregnancy. We offer pregnancy tests, STI tests, and limited obstetric ultrasounds, helping women confirm their pregnancy and understand its stage. Additionally, we provide counseling services where women can discuss their options in a safe and non-judgmental environment. This compassionate support ensures that women have the necessary information and resources to make the best choice for themselves and their unborn children.
If you have an unplanned pregnancy or think you may be pregnant and are not sure about what you want to do, contact Open Arms Real Choices Clinic today. Remember, your choice matters. It’s worth taking the time to explore all the possibilities before making a decision that will shape your life and the life of your child.
