An unexpected pregnancy can bring the world to a halt, especially for a teenager. In an instant, you’re facing serious questions about your future.

Who can I confide in? Where can I go to get help and support? Which pregnancy option is right for me? What are my rights as a pregnant teen?

We understand how overwhelming it can feel, but you’re not in this alone. Phoenix Women’s Clinic is here to answer your questions and support you from your first pregnancy test to your final decision. Keep reading to learn more.

How Do I Know if I’m Pregnant?

If you think you might be pregnant, the first thing to do is take a pregnancy test and receive an ultrasound.

But, what if you can’t afford a pregnancy test right now? What if you want to be as discreet as possible? Phoenix Women’s Clinic provides free pregnancy tests and free ultrasounds, so you can confirm your pregnancy in a compassionate, confidential environment. You are welcome to bring a parent or loved one, or come alone—whatever makes your experience more comfortable for you.

All of our teenage pregnancy resources are 100% confidential. We will never tell anyone about your testing results or your pregnancy intentions. 

Do I Need My Parents’ Permission for an Abortion?

If you are under the age of 18, Arizona law requires that you get written consent (or permission) from at least one parent or legal guardian to receive an abortion. 

You may feel that your parents deserve to know that you’re pregnant or want their help as you navigate the decision process. If you feel safe to do so, you may want to tell them once you’ve confirmed your pregnancy at Phoenix Women’s Clinic.

How Do I Tell My Parents That I’m Pregnant?

We get it—telling your parents that you’re pregnant can be one of the most nerve-wracking moments of your life. It can be hard enough to process your own feelings, let alone put them into words. Below are some tips to help you get started:

• Consider Your Options. While you don’t have to make a decision right here and now, it’s wise to start thinking about which pregnancy option would be best for your future. Need a safe, nonjudgmental place to explore your options? Consider visiting Phoenix Women’s Clinic. Our team of professional counselors is here to answer all of your questions regarding abortion, adoption, and parenting. 

• Confide in Someone You Trust. If you’re unsure of what to say, confide in someone you trust first. They may be able to help you process your thoughts and feelings and put them into words. You could even practice the conversation with them to calm your nerves. 

• Get Straight to the Point. When it comes time to share the news, get to the point. Delaying the nature of the conversation may cause tension and make each of you feel more anxious. You can be as straightforward as: “I have something difficult to tell you. It’s not what I planned, but I’m pregnant.”

Your parents will probably have questions. They may want to know how long you’ve been sexually active, how far along you are, or who the father is. These questions can seem accusatory, but they likely come from a place of concern for you. Remember, they’re hearing shocking news for the first time, so try to answer as calmly as possible and allow them time to process. If you feel your parents are open to knowing more about how you feel about your pregnancy, share with them the pregnancy options you are considering. 

If you’re concerned that either of your parents may react violently to the news, please reach out for help. 

Teenage Pregnancy Resources in Phoenix, AZ 

Finding out that you’re pregnant as a teenager can be scary, but have hope that there are people and resources available to help you. Phoenix Women’s Clinic provides free teenage pregnancy resources, so you can get the confidential care you need to make an informed and empowered decision. 

Give us a call at 602-305-5100, text us at 909-529-2035, or schedule your appointment online today. All services are confidential and free of charge!

It’s an unfortunate fact that if you’re sexually active, you’ve likely been exposed to an STD or STI. You may be thinking about getting tested, but, let’s be real—it can feel embarrassing. However, you should never feel ashamed for taking charge of your health! 

Today, we’re exploring 4 reasons why you need to get tested for STDs and STIs. Keep reading to learn more! 

1. Not All STDs and STIs Have Symptoms

Many people don’t even realize they have an STD because they don’t experience any symptoms. For example, up to 75% of women with chlamydia are asymptomatic^[1]. It’s very easy for infections to go unnoticed until a partner is diagnosed or if complications arise later on^[2]. 

The sooner you get tested, the better. Certain infections, like HIV, are much easier to treat when caught early. Early intervention can decrease your risk of developing AIDS and other serious conditions^[3]. Additionally, by getting tested and treated, you do your part to keep them from spreading to other people.

2. They’re More Common Than You Think

STDs and STIs are quite common, especially among young people. In 2020 alone, more than half of reported STD cases were among teenagers and young adults from ages 15–24^[4]. The CDC estimates that 1 in 5 people has an STI^[5]. If you’re sexually active, there’s a chance you’ve been exposed to an STD or STI at some point, whether you realize it or not.

3. They Can be Transmitted Through Different Forms of Contact

If you’ve never had vaginal intercourse, you may think you’re safe from STDs. However, some STDs can be spread through other forms of contact, such as anal sex, oral sex, or kissing:

• Syphilis^[6]
• Oral herpes^[7]
• Herpes simplex virus (HSV)^[8]
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)^[9]

It’s worth getting tested even if you haven’t had any intimate sexual contact with your partner. This will help prevent any infections from spreading further and allow you both to get the care you need!

4. They Can Cause Lasting Damage to Your Reproductive Health

When left untreated, certain STDs (such as gonorrhea and chlamydia) can lead to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), an infection of a woman’s reproductive organs^[10]. PID is known to increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy and even infertility^[10].

PID can be treated when discovered early, but treatment can’t reverse the damage it’s already done. If you’ve had PID before, you’re at higher risk of getting it again. Additionally, it can return if you get reinfected with an STD.

How Often Should You Get Tested for STDs and STIs?

If you’re sexually active, it’s crucial to get tested regularly to protect your health! The CDC recommends that^[11]:

• Sexually active teens and adults (from age 13 onward) should be tested for HIV at least once a year.

• Sexually active women should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia once a year, especially if they have multiple sex partners or a partner (whether past or present) who has tested positive for an STD.

• Pregnant women should be tested for syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, chlamydia, and gonorrhea early in pregnancy. Repeat testing may be needed in some cases. 

STD & STI Testing in Phoenix, AZ

Looking for STD & STI testing in Phoenix, AZ? Look no further than Phoenix Women’s Clinic. We offer confidential STD & STI testing and treatment for multiple infections, no insurance needed! 
Give us a call at 602-305-510, text us at 909-529-2035, or schedule your appointment online today.

Sources

1. Patel, C. G., Trivedi, S., & Tao, G. (2018, September). The Proportion of Young Women Tested for Chlamydia Who Had Urogenital Symptoms in Physician Offices. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6823598/  
2. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2021, September 21). Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sexually-transmitted-diseases-stds/symptoms-causes/syc-20351240# 
3. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2022, October 21). Early HIV diagnosis and treatment important for better long-term health outcomes. National Institutes of Health. Retrieved from https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/early-hiv-diagnosis-treatment-important-better-long-term-health-outcomes 
4. National Overview of STDs, 2020. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, April 12). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/std/statistics/2020/overview.htm#Disparities 
5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, February 18). Sexually Transmitted Infections Prevalence, Incidence, and Cost Estimates in the United States. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/std/statistics/prevalence-incidence-cost-2020.htm 
6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, April 12). Syphilis – CDC Detailed Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/std/syphilis/stdfact-syphilis-detailed.htm# 
7. Oral Herpes. Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2021, August 8). Retrieved from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/herpes-hsv1-and-hsv2/oral-herpes# 
8. World Health Organization. (2022, March 10). Herpes simplex virus. World Health Organization. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/herpes-simplex-virus# 
9. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, April 12). Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/std/hpv/stdfact-hpv.htm# 
10. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, April 18). Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/std/pid/stdfact-pid.htm# 
11. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, December 14). Which STD Tests Should I Get? Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/std/prevention/screeningreccs.htm# 

An unintended pregnancy can rip the rug out from under you. It can be easy to make a snap decision out of fear, but it’s crucial to ask questions and get all the facts on your options to protect your health!

Today, we’re answering some frequently asked questions about the abortion pill, so you can make a confident, educated decision regarding your unintended pregnancy!  

How Does the Abortion Pill Work?

Although it’s referred to as a pill (singular), the abortion pill actually consists of two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol.

Mifepristone is taken first, usually in a clinic. This medication cuts the supply of the hormone progesterone to the embryo, which is needed to maintain the pregnancy. Without a steady supply of progesterone, the embryo stops growing. Misoprostol is taken 24-48 hours later at home. This medication causes the uterus to contract and expel the fetus, which ends the pregnancy.

How Late Can You Take the Abortion Pill? 

You can’t take the abortion pill beyond 10 weeks of pregnancy (or 70 days since the first day of your last menstrual period)^[1]. This is because it becomes less effective the farther along you are. If you take the abortion pill later on in your pregnancy, you could experience serious complications and may need emergency surgery to complete the procedure. 

Is Abortion Legal in Arizona? Do I Need an Ultrasound Before Taking the Abortion Pill?

Currently, abortion is illegal in Arizona beyond 15 weeks of pregnancy, except in cases of medical emergency^[2]. You are also required to receive an ultrasound before an abortion in Arizona.

Before taking the abortion pill, consider receiving a free ultrasound at Phoenix Women’s Clinics to determine how far along you are. If your ultrasound determines that you’re too far along for abortion, our compassionate medical staff will help you explore all of your pregnancy options, so you can make the best choice for your health and future!

Do I Need a Prescription for the Abortion Pill? Can I Get the Abortion Pill Over the Counter? 

The FDA now allows certain pharmacies to sell the abortion pill over the counter. However, you still need a prescription in order to take it^[4].

Can I Order the Abortion Pill Online?

The FDA warns against ordering the abortion pill online, as it bypasses safety regulations designed to keep you safe. Many online abortion pill providers are located overseas, so the pills they provide may not be FDA-approved^[4]. These pills could be fake, expired, or even laced with harmful substances! It’s best to speak to a licensed medical professional first!

What are the Side Effects of the Abortion Pill?

Like any medical procedure, there are risks and side effects associated with the abortion pill. Common side effects include:

• Spotting or bleeding that can last up to a month^[5]
• Headaches
• Abdominal cramping (caused by the misoprostol)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea and digestive pain
• Chills
• Fever

More severe abortion pill side effects include:

• Allergic reaction. Although rare, it is possible to go into anaphylactic shock after taking vaginal misoprostol if you’re allergic to any ingredients in the medication^[6].

• Hemorrhaging. It’s normal to bleed for a while after taking the abortion pill. However, if you soak through two thick full-size sanitary pads per hour, for two or more hours, you could be hemorrhaging^[7].
• Incomplete abortion. Incomplete abortions occur when some pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus after misoprostol has been taken. Emergency surgery may be needed to remove the remaining tissue and prevent infection^[8]. 

• Infection. If you experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or a fever for more than 24 hours after taking the second medication, an infection may have developed. You may need antibiotics or even surgery to treat your condition^[9].

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection of the female reproductive organs. The symptoms to be aware of include abdominal pain, irregular periods, nausea and vomiting, painful urination, painful sex, and unusual vaginal discharge^[10]. 

This all may sound a bit frightening, but we believe you deserve to be aware of the risks and side effects of abortion, so you can make the best choice for your health and future!

Abortion Pill Information in Phoenix, AZ

When your pregnancy test comes back positive, it can be easy to panic. Don’t let fear make any decisions for you! Get the care and support you deserve at Phoenix Women’s Clinics! We offer free pregnancy resources so that you can make an empowered decision for your unintended pregnancy:  

• Free pregnancy tests
• Free ultrasounds
• A safe, non-judgmental place to explore your pregnancy options and process your emotions

Give us a call at 602-305-510, text us at 909-529-2035, or schedule your appointment online today. All services are confidential and free of charge!

Please be aware that Life Choice does not provide or refer for abortion services. 

Sources

1. FDA. (2021, December 6). Questions and Answers on Mifeprex. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifeprex  
2. Commonwealth of Kentucky Office of the Attorney General. (2022, June 24). Human Life Protection Act. Attorney General Daniel Cameron. Retrieved from https://www.ag.ky.gov/Press%20Release%20Attachments/Human%20Life%20Protection%20Act%20Advisory.pdf 
3. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, September 3). Slide Show: Fetal Ultrasound. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/multimedia/fetal-ultrasound/sls-20076294?s=3# 
4. Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. (2023, January 24). Mifeprex (Mifepristone). U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/mifeprex-mifepristone-information
5. U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2016, May 16). Mifepristone (Mifeprex). MedlinePlus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a600042.html 
6. Shin, Hyun Joo, et al. “Anaphylactic Shock to Vaginal Misoprostol: A Rare Adverse Reaction to a Frequently Used Drug.” PubMed Central (PMC), 9 Aug. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6137020
7. FDA. (2016). Prescribing Information for Mifeprex. U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2019/022348s014lbl.pdf 
8. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, July 29). Medical Abortion. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/medical-abortion/about/pac-20394687 
9. Abortion Risks. Louisiana Department of Health. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://ldh.la.gov/page/1063 
10. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Symptoms, Treatments & Causes. Cleveland Clinic. (2020, November 23). Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9129-pelvic-inflammatory-disease-pid