Ask Our Nurse
You are welcome to ask our nurse any questions you may have, and feel free to search our FAQs for answers.
Ask Our Nurse FAQs
Q: Does Compassion Care Center refer for abortions?
A: Compassion Care Center does not perform or refer for abortions. However, here is what our center can do for you:
- Conduct a free lab-quality pregnancy test.
- Perform a free limited obstetric ultrasound exam, reviewed by a licensed physician, to determine how far along you are. Knowing how many weeks/days pregnant you are is important in determining which type of abortion procedure you would have to undergo. Find out if you actually have a viable pregnancy.
- Provide free confidential Options Counseling to review the different types of abortion procedures (pharmaceutical, surgical, etc.), and any risks or potential side effects. It’s important to receive comprehensive information on all your options to make an informed decision.
We encourage you to schedule an appointment at Compassion Care Center. You do not have to go through this overwhelming process alone.
Q: How early can your test detect pregnancy?
A: Compassion Care Center’s pregnancy tests can detect pregnancy as early as your missed period.
Q: Are the services free?
A: Yes, all of Compassion Care Center’s services are completely free. Compassion Care Center is a non-profit organization. We’ve intentionally structured our organization so we don’t make money on any pregnancy decision that you make. That means we can provide unbiased information without a financial conflict of interest. And we’ll do it in a caring, non-judgmental way. Visit our About Us page for a list of all of the services available to you.
Q: What should I expect during my first appointment?
A: When you come to Compassion Care Center for your first appointment, you will be greeted by our receptionist. You will fill out your initial intake paperwork (10-15 mins). You will be introduced to a Nurse/RDMS who will spend some time getting to know you and discussing your current situation. Once we have confirmed your pregnancy through a pregnancy test, your Nurse/RDMS will speak to you about the services we provide and how we can best serve your immediate and long term needs.
Q: Do I need to bring anything with me to the appointment?
A: We ask that you bring a valid form of ID: driver’s license, picture ID, student ID, passport, etc.
Q: What is “Options Counseling?”
A: Options counseling offers a woman a safe place to think, process and share her thoughts regarding her pregnancy decision. As a life affirming center we don’t perform or refer for abortions. We offer current and relevant information and education on abortion, adoption and parenting. We can connect clients with adoption agencies and for those clients who choose to parent they can take part in our JEWYL Program.
Q: I already know I’m pregnant. Can I still utilize your services?
A: Of course. Bring proof of your pregnancy to your appointment or take a pregnancy test with us to confirm. Before we can do an ultrasound, you must take a pregnancy test with us and the test must appear positive. Our staff will be happy to talk about options and services with you.
Q: I just had a baby. Can I still join the JEWYL Program?
A: Compassion Care Center prefers to begin working with clients at the start of their pregnancy journey so that we have the opportunity to build strong relationships. However, we do occasionally make exceptions. Please contact the Center today to speak with our staff about your needs.
Q: What can I expect from prenatal appointments with an obstetrician, family doctor, or nurse-midwife?
A: Every practice is different, but typically you will be scheduled something like once a month until you are about 28 weeks pregnant, twice a month until around 36 weeks, and weekly after 36 weeks until your baby is born. They will ask a lot of questions about your personal life and habits so they can determine how best to help you and your baby stay healthy and happy during your pregnancy.
Q: What should I eat while I’m pregnant?
A: Every day eat nutritious foods to keep you and your baby healthy. Fresh fruits and vegetables, protein (such as chicken, turkey, pork, lean beef, eggs, nuts, beans, and tofu), whole grains (like in bread and cereals), dairy products (like milk and yogurt), healthy oils (like olive oil). Limit processed foods (like fast foods, frozen meals, soda, and candy).
Q: How much weight should I gain while pregnant?
A: Ask your caregiver, because it will be based on your current weight. If you’re at a normal weight, you’ll gain between 25 to 35 pounds. When you’re overweight, you may gain 15-25 pounds. If you’re underweight, you may gain 28-40 pounds. Make sure to consult your caregiver.
Q: Is exercising good while I’m pregnant?
A: Absolutely! Daily exercise is good, as long as it’s not strenuous. So 30 minutes of walking, using a stationary bike, or swimming is great. Many places like the YMCA have workout programs just for pregnant women. Make sure to consult your caregiver to see if you have any risks that would prevent you from exercising regularly.
Q: How will I be able to afford this?
A: If you’re single, make sure you find out about your right to receive child-support from the father of your baby. At the Compassion Care Center, we can also provide you with a list of national, as well as local, resources that will be able to aid you financially. We also provide baby and maternity items through our Learn and Earn Program. Don’t worry. We’re here to help you through this exciting and rewarding journey of becoming a parent.
Next Step: