Dementia and Your Loved One
About Me
Dementia and Your Loved One

I've been a caretaker of an elderly woman with dementia for over two years. I've seen the effects of this mental affliction, and how devastating it can be to loved ones. This is why I am a firm believer in seeking a professional diagnosis, so the patient may receive necessary care and treatment. Once diagnosed at the onset of symptoms, a plan can be devised. Through social interaction and daily care, my charge has achieved a higher quality of life. If your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's disease, you can make a difference. Love will find a way.

Dementia and Your Loved One

3 Tips For Dealing With An Unwanted Pregnancy

Vickie Armstrong

When you suspect or know you are pregnant and you are not sure if you want to continue the pregnancy, making a decision can be overwhelming. Getting the assistance you need promptly can help you make decisions about whether you want to terminate the pregnancy.

Take A Pregnancy Test

Avoiding the issue will only delay getting the help you need. If you are unsure whether you are pregnant, it is best to talk to your doctor, your local public health agency, or Planned Parenthood. The latter two agencies are especially helpful if you are uninsured or have limited income because they often provide testing free or at a reduced rate. Depending on how long ago your last period was, you might need a blood test rather than a urine pregnancy test. Blood tests are more accurate and can detect a pregnancy at an earlier stage than some urine tests. Knowing the outcome at an earlier stage of pregnancy means there are more options available if you decide you want to terminate.

Speak With A Counselor

Usually, there are counselors available if you are pregnant and unsure whether you want to terminate. Counselors can be a helpful resource to help you work through your concerns because each woman may be indecisive about her pregnancy for different reasons. For example, if you are uncomfortable telling your partner you are pregnant versus being in financial distress that would make you unable to take care of a child, can affect the suggestions your counselor will make. They might give you ideas on how to approach your partner with the information and encourage you to make a decision after you have consulted them. If finances are the problem, they can suggest resources, such as adoption or assistance programs to help if you keep the child. Ultimately, it is your personal decision what you should do and your counselor can only help you with the process.

Know Your Termination Options

If you have decided you want to terminate the pregnancy, it is best to decide as early as possible. In the earlier stages of pregnancy, you might be able to have a medical abortion, which can involve taking medication. This type of abortion is less expensive and may be more widely available. Beyond a certain point, usually past the first trimester, you might be limited to a surgical abortion. The options for surgical abortion are aspiration or a dilation and evacuation. For both procedures, your cervix will need to be dilated so the fetal tissue can be removed from your uterus. You will likely experience cramping and bleeding after the procedure until you completely heal. Every jurisdiction is different in the procedures allowed and the time frame for terminating a pregnancy.

Making decisions regarding an unwanted pregnancy can be emotionally difficult. The earlier you can make a choice to terminate a pregnancy, the less complex the procedure. To learn more, contact a women's clinic like Aaron Women’s Center Houston.


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