FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1) I already bought a pregnancy test from Wal-Mart. Why do I need to come in and be tested with you?
The pregnancy tests offered by our center meet Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment (CLIA) standards for medically-accurate urine tests with instant results. The tests are accurate as early as two weeks after conception, usually before a missed period.
At our center, pregnancy tests are generally up to 99% accurate and:
- are done in a clinical and private setting
- results will be known during your appointment, and
- can usually be taken before you miss your period
A positive urine pregnancy test suggests a pregnancy, but should always be confirmed, for example with an ultrasound. We offer free ultrasounds.
2) I am 16, does a parent have to come with me for my appointment?
No, you may come in alone. Even though you are a minor, you have the right to confidential help, except in those cases where mandatory reporting applies, such as suicide risk. We will not provide your records to any person without written authorization from you.
3) What do you mean that I “may not need an abortion”? How can you tell?
Many women can avoid having to decide what to do with their unintended pregnancy, because about 1 in 5 of all pregnancies end naturally. Pregnancies that end naturally are not viable, and result in what are called miscarriages. Who wants to go through the pain, cost and risk of an abortion if it’s not necessary?
A good way to check if you’ll miscarry is by ultrasound technology. We recommend you get your ultrasound at a medical facility that will (a) not charge you a fee for the ultrasound, and (b) not put you under any obligation when receiving the ultrasound.
4) I had sex last night and I think the condom broke. Can I come in today for a pregnancy test?
The hormones in your body that result in a positive pregnancy test can’t be detected until two weeks after fertilization. You just need to wait until after that period of time then call and we’ll set an appointment for a test.
5) Can I just come in whenever, or do I need an appointment?
We want to make sure we have a special time set aside to talk with you, so it’s usually best to have an appointment. However, if you are unable to make an appointment, you may walk in Monday – Thursday between 11:00 am – 4:00 pm.
6) Can I bring someone with me?
Absolutely: it’s important to have the support of friends or family during an uncertain time.
7) Do I need to bring anything with me to an appointment?
No. One of our client advocates will complete a confidential intake form with you. No insurance is required and all services are free.
8) Will the Free Women’s Center tell anyone that I came in for a pregnancy test?
Any and all information shared with us will be kept in the strictest confidence except as required by Missouri law or as required for the protection of yourself or others. You don’t have to worry if your family or friends will find out. We’ll do everything we can to protect your privacy.
9) I think I’m pregnant, but I’m on the pill. What should I do?
It is rare but possible to get pregnant on the pill. You will need to take a lab quality urine test, and if it is positive, you will want to confirm pregnancy with an ultrasound. We offer free ultrasounds.
10) How can I go see a doctor if I don’t have any insurance?
There are options available for people who need care even if they don’t have insurance. The Free Women’s Center will provide you with a free pregnancy test and if necessary a free ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy. If you qualify, we can help you apply for Medicaid, plus, we maintain a database of all income-based medical clinics in our area.
11) How do I know if I’ve been exposed to an STD?
If you’ve been sexually intimate orally, anally or vaginally, you may have put yourself at risk for an STD. It’s really that simple. Since there are many types of STDs, it is important that you be tested regularly. Hormonal birth control (pill, patch, or implant) or mechanical birth control (IUD or vaginal ring) do not prevent the transmission of STDs.
12) Can a condom protect me from an STD/STI?
Condoms can only reduce the chance of infection with STDs like Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. Herpes and HPV are found on the external genitalia, a place condoms don’t cover. The only guaranteed protection from these two STDs is refraining from any genital to genital or oral to genital contact.
13) Can I get the morning-after pill at the Free Women’s Center?
The Free Women’s Center does not offer the morning-after pill, or Plan B.
14) I don’t live near Waynesville, MO. Where can I go to find a pregnancy center near me?
Option Line is available 24/7 by calling 800-712-4357 You can visit their website www.optionline.org to search for a center in your area that can assist you.
15) Can I get an abortion at the Free Women’s Center?
The Free Women’s Center does not perform or refer for an abortion. However, we do provide education, resources and a medical consultation with a licensed nurse to include a lab-quality pregnancy test and ultrasound–at NO CHARGE.
Call today to schedule a confidential consultation with one of our professionals.