Why do Pregnancy Resource centers, like LivingWell, offer free ultrasounds? Why would having an ultrasound change my decision to have an abortion? Are they really necessary?
Ultrasounds are an amazing tool, which have been used as a common course of action for pregnant women since the 1970's. Not only do they provide useful medical information, they can allow the woman to see a live image of her baby, as well as hear his/her heartbeat. This experience alone can cause a woman to change her decision to have an abortion. In fact, according to the National Institute of Family and Life Advocates, 80% of abortion minded-women choose to keep their child after seeing their ultrasound. Not only does this encourage pro-life pregnancy centers to offer free ultrasounds, it also allows women conflicted with their unplanned pregnancy to make a clear and informed decision.
LivingWell pregnancy centers has offered free abdominal ultrasounds since 1985 and has seen great success in the results! Many of our clients also bring in their close friends and family members during their appointment. This allows our client's support group to experience the ultrasound simultaneously. In some cases, the family members may be pressuring the woman to have an abortion, which makes it even more important to have them in the room during the ultrasound (if our client feels comfortable with it). Thanks to our donors, who continue to support our ministry, we will continue to provide this free service to our clients!
Unfortunately, this life-changing procedure is being challenged by abortion clinics nationwide. Some states require that the ultrasound is shown to women before performing their abortion. According to Guttmacher Institute, 13 U.S. states have some form of ultrasound requirement. Whether that be showing the ultrasound, offering it, or informing women of their other options, abortion clinics want to remove all requirements for having an abortion. Abortion providers have stated that ultrasounds will not change women's minds. In addition, they think that it causes the woman to feel distressed and condemned about their decision. Even if this is true, ultrasounds should still be required before an abortion. Even if it causes women to feel conflicted, it should be necessary for women to be provided with all other options before choosing an abortion.
We hope that this information was helpful for you! If you have any questions about our ultrasounds, please call us at 714-637-9664 today!