You must seriously weigh each choice, parenting, abortion and adoption, looking at the immediate as well as long-term consequences before you decide. You need to know the facts so that you can make an informed decision and a decision you can live with. We are here to help contact us today at info@marinpregnancyclinic.org or 415-892-0558.

Parenting - You can choose to raise your child. This may seem daunting, especially if you are single. But, at  Marin Pregnancy Clinic, we can help you with necessities for the baby, including all types of referrals - housing, medical, maternity and infant clothing, financial and adoption services.

Abortion - Abortion is the termination of a pregnancy and can be induced or spontaneous (miscarriage). There are two types of induced abortions: medical and surgical. If you are considering an abortion, you should be well informed about all aspects of an abortion.

Our professional medical staff is here to answer your questions about abortion. They can answer your medical questions and give you all the facts. Our clinic and counselors will provide you with information about  pregnancy, abortion, adoption and any other related health issues.

If you would like to speak to someone regarding abortion and alternatives, please contact us to make a medical consultation. We provide free and confidential services to ensure that you have all the information when making your decision about your pregnancy. The first step is to confirm your pregnancy by coming in, making an appointment through our link or emailing us today to set up an appointment as soon as possible.

Possible complications & risks of abortion

• bleeding or tearing of the cervix
• damaged or weakened cervix that could result in miscarriages or premature births in future pregnancies
• infection that could cause PID (pelvic inflammatory disease) could lead to infertility
• hemorrhaging
• scar tissue on the wall of the uterus causing miscarriages or ectopic pregnancies in the future
• punctured uterus resulting in a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus)
• incomplete abortion
• damaged internal organs (bowel & bladder) close to the uterus
• allergic reaction to drugs
• death
• emotional impact- guilt, anger, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, anniversary grief, flashbacks of abortion, sexual dysfunction, relationship problems, eating disorders, alcohol & drug abuse, psychological reactions
• spiritual consequences

1st Trimester: Suction abortion - The cervical muscle is opened by inserting laminaria a day or two before the abortion or it is stretched with dilators (metal rods) until the opening is wide enough to allow the abortion instruments to pass into the uterus. A powerful vacuum is used to pull the placenta away from the uterine wall to empty the uterus. A variation of this is called Dilation and Curettage (D&C). In this method, the doctor may use a curette, a loop-shaped knife, to scrape the fetal parts out of the uterus.

RU 486: The timing of RU 486 is critical. It must be given between 4-7 weeks after LMP (last menstrual period). The procedure usually requires 2-3 office visits. The RU 486 pills are given to the woman who returns two days later for a second medication called misoprostol. The combination of these medications causes the uterus to expel the fetus.

2nd Trimester: The cervical muscle is opened by inserting laminaria a day or two before the abortion. After the cervix is opened, the doctor performs Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) by pulling out fetal parts with forceps. The baby’s skull is crushed to ease removal.

3rd Trimester: Dilation and Extraction (D&X) The cervix is dilated and medication is given for cramping. The patient returns in three days and is given medication to begin labor. After labor begins, the doctor uses ultrasound to locate the baby’s legs, which are grabbed with forceps. The baby is delivered up to the head. Scissors are inserted into the base of the skull to create an opening. A catheter is placed into the opening to remove the skull contents. The skull collapses and the baby is removed.

Adoption - Adoption is the act of legally placing a child with a parent or parents other than those to whom they were born. An adoption order has the effect of severing parental responsibilities and rights of the birth parent(s) and transferring those responsibilities and rights to the adoptive parent(s). There are two types of adoption: 1) open adoptions & 2) closed adoptions. Open adoptions allow for communication over the years between the adoptive parents and the birth parent(s). Closed adoptions sever the communication between the birth parent(s) and the adoptive parents. Most birth parents are active in choosing the adoptive parents who will raise their child. Most expenses (i.e., medical, maternity clothing, legal, counseling) are provided by the adoptive family. In some cases, adoption is the most loving and unselfish decision an expectant mother & father can make.