My girlfriend is pregnant. What do I do?

“My girlfriend is pregnant. What do I do?” If you find yourself asking this question, you’ve come to the right place. Finding out your partner is pregnant can feel overwhelming—especially if you weren’t expecting it. Here’s what to do next:

• Stay calm.
  It’s natural to feel overwhelmed, worried, or even scared or embarrassed. Remember that your girlfriend probably feels the same way. Try to be calm and compassionate as you talk through the situation. Further, try to avoid raising your voice and placing blame.
• Listen to her.
  Try to be supportive as she shares her feelings with you. Let her know that you will be there for her and that you will figure it out together. While she is the one who is pregnant, you both have a responsibility now.
• Make a game plan.
  Work with your girlfriend to determine the best plan for her, you, and the baby.
  There are three options for a woman when she learns she’s pregnant:
  • Parenting
  • Adoption
  • Abortion
    
    

It is important to consider the pros and cons of each and to discuss your options with a medical professional. If you live in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Thrive Women’s Clinic provides FREE options counseling, pregnancy testing, sonograms, and other services—no insurance required. Click here to make an appointment.

The decision you make together will have lifelong consequences. Make sure that you are informed about every option and that you both come to a decision together. Call us at 214-343-9263 if you need to talk. We have male counselors who can walk you through your options or just provide an ear to listen.

From Oak Cliff to Garland and Irving to Park Cities, our four Dallas-area clinics offer a convenient option for you. While we do not perform abortions, we do offer pregnancy testing, sonograms, options counseling, and other services free of charge.

“I’m pregnant. I’m scared about all the uncertainties with coronavirus and COVID-19 around us. Will my pregnancy make me more likely to get to the coronavirus? What will happen if I get COVID-19 while pregnant? What will happen to the baby? To me?

I am thinking about an abortion.”

Does this sound like you? Let us help you answer some of these questions:

What is Covid-19?

COVID-19 is a new illness that affects the lungs and breathing. It is caused by a new coronavirus.  Symptoms may appear 2 to 14 days after you are exposed to the virus.

Symptoms include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Trouble breathing
• Headache or muscle aches
• Stomach problems (nausea and diarrhea)
• Loss of your sense of smell or taste

How does COVID-19 affect pregnant women?

A report released in June 2020 looked at whether pregnant women might be at increased risk of getting very sick from COVID-19. This report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that:.

• Pregnant women with COVID-19 may be more likely than nonpregnant women with COVID-19 to need care in an intensive care unit (ICU) or need a ventilator (for breathing support).
• Pregnant women who are Black, Hispanic, or Asian may have a higher risk of severe illness or need ICU care more often than other pregnant women. This is likely caused by social and economic inequity, not biological differences.

Although the risk of needing more care in the hospital and having more severe illness may be increased, the overall risk of these outcomes is still low for pregnant women. Also, it’s important to know that the report suggests the risk of death is not higher for pregnant women with COVID-19 than for nonpregnant women with COVID-19.

Doctors urge pregnant women to take the same steps as the general public to avoid coronavirus infection.

How can COVID-19 affect my baby?

Some researchers are looking specifically at COVID-19 and its possible effects on a baby. Here’s what they know now:

• Some pregnant women with COVID-19 have had preterm births, but it is not clear whether the preterm births were because of COVID-19. 
• Researchers have found a few cases of COVID-19 that may have passed to a fetus during pregnancy, but this seems to be rare.

More research is needed to understand the effects of COVID-19 before birth. After birth, a newborn can get the virus if they are exposed to it. 

What should pregnant women do to avoid the coronavirus?

The virus spreads mainly from person-to-person contact. Pregnant women can take the same steps as other people to protect themselves, including

• washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• cleaning hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol
• avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth 
• staying home as much as possible
• staying at least 6 feet away from other people if you need to go out 
• avoiding people who are sick
• wearing a mask or face covering

If you are exposed or get Covid-19 contact your health care provider (ob/gyn) and let them know so they can guide you through appropriate steps and care.

Is it safe to see a doctor or visit a medical office right now about my pregnancy?

Yes. Our clinics are creating a safe and sterile place for you to get the holistic care you need. Our current protocols include patient screening, regular sanitation, face masks, and limited capacity. Three of our four Dallas clinics are open to patients today, serving Oak Cliff, Garland, Park Cities and surrounding areas. Make an appointment now.

Can COVID-19 pass to a baby through breast milk?

So far, the virus has not been found in breast milk. But, there is not enough information yet on whether women who are sick can pass the virus through breast milk. 

Breast milk gives babies protection against many illnesses. It also is the best source of nutrition for most babies. Talk with your ob-gyn or other health care professional about whether to start or continue breastfeeding. You can make this decision together with your family and health care team. 

For More details visit the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology at https://www.acog.org

If you experience symptoms of Covid-19, seek care immediately and testing at one of the sites below. 

Please inform us of your condition and testing results by emailing us at mhall@thrivewomensclinic.com

Dallas County COVID testing (as of May 10 2020)

Drive-Thru testing:

• American Airlines Center, Parking Lot E, 2500 Victory Plaza
• Ellis Davis Field House, 9191 South Polk Street

**Both drive-thru testing sites will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. NO APPOINTMENT NEEDED at above locations. There are only 500 tests per day, per site. Locations will close when tests are depleted.

**Must be exhibiting the following symptoms to be tested at drive thru location:

• Must have temperature of 99.6 or higher and shortness of breath or cough; OR
• Anyone 65-years-old or older; OR
• Anyone with chronic health issues (diabetes, asthma, heart issues, etc.); OR first responders, DART drivers, healthcare workers, grocery store and essential retail store workers
• Parkland Hospital offers drive-thru testing by appointment only for current Parkland patients who meet the medically necessary criteria with a Parkland physician’s order. 

In Person testing:

• Parkland Hospital location- appointments are required for current Parkland patients, contact COVID-19 Patient Line at 214-590-8060

• MD Medical Group
• MD Family Clinic, Bruton Location – 9709 Bruton Road, Dallas, TX 75217
• MD Family Clinic, Marsh Location – 9991 Marsh Lane, Suite 100, Dallas, TX 75220
• MD Kids Pediatrics, Saner Location – 3201 West Saner Avenue, Dallas, TX 75233
• Clinicas Mi Doctor, Seminary Location – 4200 South Freeway, Suite 106, Fort Worth, TX 76115
• Clinicas Mi Doctor, Lewisville Location – 701 South Stemmons Freeway, Lewisville, TX 75067
• MD Family Clinic, Irving Heights Location – 1111 South Irving Heights Drive, Irving, TX 75060
• MD Kids Pediatrics, West Plano Location – 7800 Preston Road, Suite 300 Plano, TX 75024

According to the MD Medical Group, appointments are required for COVID-19 testing. Same-day appointments can be made by calling or texting 1-888-776-5252.

An unplanned pregnancy can bring about a lot of emotions and questions. If you are looking at abortion there are a LOT of factors to consider, such as at how many weeks pregnant can you get an abortion in Dallas? How much does it cost? Is it safe?

“I’m pregnant. I’m not sure what to do. I am thinking about an abortion.” If this sounds like you, here are some things you should know:

1. How far along you are in your pregnancy determines which type of abortion you can have. For example, you can only take the abortion pill before 10 weeks of pregnancy.
2. Abortion is usually not covered by insurance. Many times the only exception is when the mother’s life is in danger or her health is severely compromised.
3. You are required by law to have an ultrasound before an abortion, and there is a 24-hour waiting period after having the ultrasound before the abortion can be performed.
4. At how many weeks pregnant can I get an abortion in Dallas? In Texas, abortion is legal up to 21 weeks 6 days.
5. Abortion is not your only option. The best way to empower yourself to make the best decision is to educate yourself on ALL your options. Consider consulting with health care professionals that don’t profit off your decision to have an abortion. Our clinic can answer all your questions about abortion, parenting, adoption, and offer many resources. All of our services and confidential, non-judgmental, and FREE, so you can rest assured we have no financial benefit from your decision – whatever it may be.

From Oak Cliff to Garland and Irving to Park Cities, our four Dallas-area clinics will offer a convenient location for you. Schedule an appointment online now or give us a call today.

Which type of pregnancy test is best? Which type is most accurate? Can I get a false positive or a false negative test on a pregnancy test? If you are trying to figure out the answer to any of these questions, we’re here to help—and we have good news!

The good news is that many tests on the market right now are 99% accurate when taken correctly. (This means that you must follow the test’s instructions.) The majority of over-the-counter tests are looking for hCG, or human chorionic gonadotropin, the hormone that a woman’s body begins producing when she is pregnant. It appears about six days after ovulation when the fertilized embryo attaches to the walls of the uterus.

When should I take a pregnancy test?

It may be tempting to take a test early, but in general, home pregnancy tests are more accurate if you wait until after your missed period. If you test too early, you are likely to get a false negative because there is not yet enough hCG to measure. If your test is negative but you still think you might be pregnant, it is a good idea to wait a couple of days and then take another test.

The internet’s favorite pregnancy tests

Which brand of pregnancy test is best? They are all fairly similar when the test’s instructions are followed. You can get false negatives, and more rarely false positives, with almost any type of home pregnancy test. To get the most accurate results, it is recommended to wait to take a test until at least one day after your missed period.

In no particular order, here are three of the most recommended home pregnancy tests on the internet:

• Early pregnancy test: First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test
• Digital pregnancy test: Clearblue Digital Pregnancy Test with Smart Countdown
• Best cheap pregnancy test: Wondfo Pregnancy Test Strips

If you think you might be pregnant and can’t afford a pregnancy test, give Thrive Women’s Clinic a call or schedule an appointment online now. All of our services, including pregnancy tests, are free of charge.  We also have trained advocates available if you need someone to listen and talk through your situation and options with no judgement.

From Oak Cliff to Garland and Mesquite to Park Cities, our four Dallas-area clinics offer a convenient option for you.

So you’ve just taken a pregnancy test…and it’s positive. If you’re experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and are considering abortion, it’s important to schedule an ultrasound first. Why Do I need an ultrasound before an abortion? It is required by law to have an ultrasound—also called a sonogram—before an abortion in Texas. But here are a few more reasons why it is so important:

1. Find out how far along you are. It is important to know how many weeks pregnant you are when considering abortion, as your abortion options will vary depending upon how far along you are. For example, the abortion pill is only available to women 10 weeks pregnant or less.
2. Determine whether the pregnancy is viable. One in four pregnancies end in miscarriage. An ultrasound can help determine whether your pregnancy is viable—meaning likely to result in a healthy baby—and whether an abortion will be necessary.
3. Make sure your pregnancy is progressing normally. In some cases, pregnancies develop in such a way that the mother’s health could be at risk. These types of abnormal pregnancies, including ectopic and molar pregnancies, are rare but can have severe consequences if not addressed quickly. They will never develop into a viable pregnancy. If either of these types of pregnancies are suspected, you will need to visit an OB/GYN’s office instead of an abortion clinic.
4. Be fully informed. It’s important to have all of the information you need in order to make an informed decision. An ultrasound will give you valuable information you need in order to make the right choice for yourself.

Need to schedule a FREE ultrasound or lab-quality pregnancy test? Give us a call today at 214-343-9263 or schedule an appointment online now.

From Oak Cliff to Garland and Irving to Park Cities, our four Dallas-area clinics will offer a convenient location for you.

Each year, there are more than 20 million newly-diagnosed cases of sexually transmitted diseases and infections in the United States. When left untreated, STDs and STIs can have serious and potentially life-altering consequences. Physicians recommend yearly testing at minimum to prevent major health problems including pelvic inflammatory disease, increased HIV chances, infertility, and even brain damage. It is especially important to be tested and treated for STDs and STIs if you are currently pregnant or plan to be pregnant in the future. Check out these 4 Important Things to Know About STDs/STIs:

Did you know that Dallas County recently saw the highest increase in chlamydia and gonorrhea in the nation?

1. Who is at highest risk?

According to the CDC, those at highest risk for STDs and STIs include adolescents and young adults, men who have sex with men, and some racial and ethnic minorities.

2. What are the symptoms of common STDs and STIs?

The most common STDs and STIs in Dallas County are chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. If you suspect you might have one of the infections listed below, it’s important to see your doctor or visit an STD/STI testing clinic as soon as possible.

• Chlamydia. Early infections can often have few or no symptoms. Some symptoms are mild and can be easy to miss. Those infected may experience one or more of the following:
  • Painful urination
  • Pain in the lower abdomen
  • Vaginal discharge
  • Penile discharge
  • Testicular pain
  • Painful sexual intercourse in women
  • Bleeding between periods and/or after sex in women
• Gonorrhea. Gonorrhea can affect multiple parts of the body, although it is most common in the genital tract. It often causes few or no symptoms, especially at first. Some symptoms could include:
  • Genital tract infections in women:
    • Painful urination, abdominal pain, pelvic pain, bleeding between periods or after sex, increased vaginal discharge
  • Genital tract infections in men:
    • Painful urination, pus-like discharge from penis, pain or swelling in one testicle
  • Infections in other parts of the body:
    • Rectum: itching, pus-like discharge, bright red blood on toilet paper, straining during bowel movements
    • Eyes: eye pain, sensitivity to light, pus-like discharge from one or both eyes
    • Throat: sore throat, swollen lymph nodes
    • Joints: if joints are infected by bacteria, they may be warm, red, swollen, and extremely painful
• Syphilis. Syphilis has three stages that vary in symptoms. You may even have syphilis and not show symptoms for years. Syphilis can be life-threatening. Symptoms and stages include:
  • Primary syphilis. Small sores called chancres, usually in genital area. Chancres heal on their own in a few weeks, but that does not mean the infection is over.
  • Secondary syphilis. After the chancres heal, those infected may experience a non-itchy rash that eventually covers the whole body. Symptoms can also include sores in the mouth or genitals, muscle aches, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. These symptoms may come and go for up to a year.
  • Latent syphilis. If syphilis has still not been treated after the secondary phase, it moves to the latent stage. The infected person will have no symptoms. This stage can last for years.
  • Tertiary syphilis. This stage affects 15-30% of people who don’t get treatment. This is when the disease can cause brain and nerve damage, as well as damage to eyes, heart, blood vessels, liver, and bones.
  • Congenital syphilis. Babies born to women with syphilis can become infected through the placenta or during birth. While they may have few or no symptoms at first, it can lead to deafness, teeth deformities, and a condition that causes the bridge of the nose to collapse.

3. How can I prevent STDs and STIs?

According to the CDC, here’s how you can prevent STDs and STIs:

• Practice abstinence. The only 100% way to prevent STDs is not to have sex.
• Use condoms. You can still get certain STDs and STIs even with correct condom usage, but it will lower your chances.
• Have fewer partners and make sure you both get tested regularly.
• Get vaccinated. Speak with your doctor about your vaccination options.
• Make STD and STI testing an annual priority.

4. How can I get tested?

Contact your doctor, or if you live in Dallas County, click here to learn more about the county’s free STD/STI testing.

Now that you’ve learned 4 Important Things to Know About STDs/STIs , it’s time get tested.

Thrive Women’s Clinic does not perform STD testing, but we can make referrals and address concerns or questions relating to STDs/STIs, abortion, pregnancy, sex, etc. Contact us to schedule an appointment for pregnancy testing today. From Oak Cliff to Garland and Irving to Park Cities, our four Dallas-area clinics will offer a convenient location for you.

*Information about STD/STI symptoms is from the Mayo Clinic.

Abortion costs can vary from clinic to clinic. The price will also be affected by how far along you are and whether you have an in-clinic abortion or take the abortion pill.

If you are considering abortion, the first thing you should do is find out more about your pregnancy so you can make an educated choice. Make an appointment at a clinic where you can have your pregnancy confirmed and learn all of your options. You will want an ultrasound performed to determine how far along you are and whether the pregnancy is likely to progress normally or result in miscarriage. It is important to educate yourself and to be informed so you can make the right choice for yourself without added pressure from anyone else—including family, friends and partners.

In Dallas County, abortion costs can range from $450 to more than $1,000. Thrive Women’s Clinic provides ALL services free of charge, and while our staff does not perform abortions, we do offer lab-quality pregnancy tests and ultrasounds, as well as education about all of your options—including abortion, adoption, and parenting.

Make an appointment online today for your free pregnancy test and options counseling.

Have other questions we didn’t answer? Contact us to schedule an appointment today. From Oak Cliff to Garland and Irving to Park Cities, our four clinics will offer a convenient location for you.

Have you recently taken a pregnancy test and received a positive result? If so, you may be wondering “how many weeks pregnant am I?”. Here are the ways how to calculate how many weeks pregnant you might be:

1. Count back to your last period. The easiest way to determine how far along you are is by counting back to your last period. This determines gestational age, which is how physicians measure pregnancy. Pull out a calendar and mark the first date of your last period, then count how many weeks between that date and today’s date. For example, if you started your last period on May 1 and today is June 26, you would be approximately 8 weeks pregnant.
2. Count from date of conception. Do you happen to know the exact date of conception? If so, you can count 266 days (38 weeks) from that date. Most people can’t pinpoint an exact date, but if you only had sex once during your ovulation window (typically days 10-17 in a 28-day cycle), you can probably assume that was the date of conception.
3. Get an ultrasound. This is the most reliable method if you don’t remember the first date of your last period or if you have irregular periods. Your OB/GYN will be able to measure your baby and track his or her development to determine your due date.

Have you taken a positive pregnancy test? Do you need a pregnancy confirmation or help determining your due date? Our clinic offers all services free of charge—including lab-quality pregnancy testing and ultrasounds. We want to empower women like you as you make choices about your reproductive health.

Contact us to schedule an appointment today. From Oak Cliff to Garland and Irving to Park Cities, our four Dallas-area clinics will offer a convenient location for you.

What do I do if I missed a period? How do I know if I’m pregnant? What do I do if I have a positive pregnancy test? If you have any of these questions, you’re in luck—we have the answers! Here’s what you should do next if you think you might be pregnant:

• Take a pregnancy test. Head to the nearest drugstore and pick up a home pregnancy test. Home pregnancy tests are quick, easy, and very accurate when used correctly. Can’t afford a pregnancy test? Click here. If your pregnancy test is negative, many physicians recommend taking another one about a week later to confirm that you are not pregnant. If your test is positive, then your next step is to…
• Call your doctor. Make an appointment with your OB/GYN as soon as you see a positive result. Early prenatal care is necessary for your health as well as your baby’s. Your doctor will be able to tell you how far along you are, assess whether the pregnancy is viable (certain conditions that result in a nonviable pregnancies, such as molar or ectopic pregnancies, can be life-threatening if not treated), and give you essential information about how to care for yourself and your baby during pregnancy. Don’t have a doctor? Click here.
• Explore your options. Unplanned pregnancies can feel overwhelming. If you are pregnant and you aren’t sure what to do next, give us a call or schedule an appointment online. Our medical staff does not perform abortions, but they will discuss all of your options with you—parenting, abortion, adoption—so you can make a confident decision. Appointments at Thrive Women’s Clinic are always no-cost, judgement-free, and confidential.
• Find a support system. Unsure where to turn? We are here for you. Our compassionate counselors and medical team will support you and care for you every step of the way. Give us a call or schedule an appointment online today.

Have other questions we didn’t answer? Contact us to schedule an appointment today. From Oak Cliff to Garland and Irving to Park Cities, our four clinics will offer a convenient location for you.