Pregnancy Options

A positive pregnancy test is certain to generate many thoughts and feelings. Whether it's an unwelcome surprise, or just the news you've been hoping for, Gannett has resources and support to offer. Our Clinical Counselor can offer you (alone or with your partner/support person) pregnancy options counseling in which you can reflect upon and discuss the personal implications of your pregnancy and obtain the individualized information you need in order to make a decision about what happens next. The information below highlights some of the issues that may be discussed during this appointment.

Carrying a Pregnancy to Term

Women who decide to continue a pregnancy have many questions and concerns. Some of these include how to maintain their physical and mental well-being during a pregnancy, stay on top of their academic workload, talk with partners, family members and/or faculty members, secure prenatal care, and gather the necessary financial/support resources. 

Whether continuing your pregnancy means deciding to become a parent, or finding an adoptive family to care for your baby, accessing support, information and resources is important to your health and well-being as well as that of the developing fetus. Gannett's Clinical Counselor is available to provide information and emotional support as well as referrals to local resources such as local OB-GYN practices and midwifery services. You may elect to see a provider locally, or in your hometown. If desired, longer term counseling can be sought through Counseling and Psychological Services and/or through multiple groups in the community, some of which specialize in providing support for pregnancy/adoption.

Ending a Pregnancy

Women who decide to terminate a pregnancy will have different needs and questions depending upon the number of weeks the pregnancy has progressed, and their personal feelings and values related to the process.

Generally, first trimester abortions are safe and without medical complication. Most women return to their usual activities in a relatively short period of time following the procedure. The earlier in a pregnancy a women has an abortion, the safer it will be. 

Two options are available for termination, both are available in the Ithaca area. The options include a "medical" abortion and an "in-clinic" or "surgical" abortion. Gannett's Clinical Counselor can discuss both options with you and help problem-solve and/or process your feelings. Referrals to the appropriate healthcare providers can also be conducted. If desired, longer term counseling is available through Cornell United Religous Work,  Counseling and Psychological Services, or other providers in the community.