Informed Decision Checklist

June 21, 2018

There are some events in life that can be life-changing, pregnancy happens to be one of them. Do you find yourself in this place? Have you missed a period and taken a pregnancy test with a positive result? Seeing that positive test result can be pretty scary.

You may be thinking this pregnancy is too hard to do, and your first thought is to get an abortion. Read on to get the most up-to-date information to make an informed decision.

Sometimes a positive pregnancy test result feels like good news. However, sometimes it can feel like a punch in the gut. Right now you might be feeling overwhelmed and panicked. You may feel that you have to make a decision right now before anyone finds out. You have convinced yourself that your life is out of control, all your plans are turned upside down, and that you can’t do this.

Don’t Rush

Before you rush out and make a decision in this heightened state of emotions, take a moment to breathe. Sometimes the decisions we make quickly from fear and pressure are the decisions we regret in the future. Making a rushed decision can put you in an unsafe situation.

You deserve to be safe and healthy – whatever you choose to do about this pregnancy. Take a moment to consider the following questions and answers that will help you be safe, and give you time to think and make an informed decision. What do you need to know?

Am I pregnant?

Pregnancy tests are not always accurate. Get your pregnancy confirmed by a medical professional (Care Net Frederick has a board-certified OB/GYN doctor on staff). An ultrasound can tell if there is a heartbeat and how far along you are. Call us today (301-662-5300) to schedule your confirmation ultrasound at no cost to you. *

Do I understand the potential risks?

Every medical procedure, including abortion, carries the risk of complications. You have the legal right to give fully informed consent. You also have the right to get:

An explanation of the abortion procedures available
The risks and side effects
Learn about other options for your pregnancy

It is important to get information from reliable, trusted medical sources or ask a medical professional who has nothing to gain from your informed decision. Call today (301-662-5300) to schedule a time to come in and talk, someone on our staff is ready to help you find this information. *

Have I gotten information about the abortion provider?

If you call to make an appointment for an abortion, ask for the name of the doctor in charge. Find out if the doctor is licensed and board-certified. Also, find out if there are malpractice cases or disciplinary actions against the doctor. *

Do I know how the clinic handles complications during the procedure?

Ask if the abortion doctor has admitting privileges to a hospital nearby should you have an emergency. Make sure the clinic has a plan to provide any follow-up or emergency care, should complications arise during or after the procedure. *

Do I know what to do if I change my mind?

Abortion is your choice – you can change your mind at any time before the procedure starts. Women have gotten off the exam table and left. Some have changed their minds after the first set of pills for a medical abortion. This is a decision that you will live with for the rest of your life. Don’t allow anyone to pressure you. *

Have I been tested for sexually transmitted infections (STI)?

You may be carrying an STI and not know it because they often do not have symptoms. Any surgical procedure can be complicated by infection. Call Care Net Frederick (301) 662-5300 today for your STI testing appointment at no cost to you. *

You might feel scared and/or overwhelmed right now. You don’t have to face it alone. We’re here to listen and give you the information you need to make a safe and healthy decision. The choice is yours, choose to know so you can make an informed decision.

*Questions and answers are excerpts from the Before You Decide brochure.

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Abortion Laws in Maryland

June 4, 2025

Understanding Abortion Laws in Maryland Navigating reproductive health care can feel overwhelming, especially as laws and regulations vary from state to state. In Maryland, abortion remains legal with certain restrictions in place. Whether you're seeking information for yourself or someone you care about, understanding the current legal landscape can support informed and confident decision-making. Care Net Pregnancy Center of Frederick in Frederick, Maryland, provides information on abortion and free ultrasound services to confirm a viable pregnancy for individuals considering abortion. Current Abortion Laws in Maryland Abortion is legal in Maryland, and the state has enacted several policies to protect both access to care and patient safety. The following regulations are currently in effect: Abortion is not restricted by gestational age. There are no specific limits based on the duration of pregnancy under Maryland law. Parental notice is required for a minor’s abortion. However, a provider may waive this requirement if it is not in the minor’s best interest. State Medicaid covers abortion care. Maryland’s Medicaid program includes coverage for abortion services. Private health insurance plans are required to cover abortion. State law mandates that private insurers include abortion care in their coverage. Maryland law provides protections from harassment and physical harm for individuals entering abortion clinics. The state has a shield law to protect abortion providers from investigations or legal actions initiated by other states. This may also extend to patients and support organizations involved in providing or seeking care. Miscarriage Care Is Not the Same as Abortion Care It’s important to clarify that abortion laws or policies do not restrict access to medical care for miscarriage. A miscarriage - also known as spontaneous pregnancy loss - is medically and legally distinct from abortion. Miscarriage care remains fully legal and available across the state. Unfortunately, misinformation has led some to believe that access to emergency care for miscarriage may be affected by abortion laws. This is not the case. Miscarriage can involve serious health risks, and hospitals and medical providers are both equipped and permitted to offer the necessary care. If you or someone you know is experiencing signs of a miscarriage, it’s essential to seek medical attention without delay. Empowered Consent Understanding your rights and responsibilities under state law is a crucial part of empowered consent. Whether someone chooses to carry a pregnancy to term, explore adoption, or seek an abortion, access to clear, accurate information is essential. Our center offers free and confidential services if you are considering abortion in Frederick, Maryland. These services are available to minors, and parental consent is not required. If you're considering your options, we are here to support you with facts, not pressure. If you're not located near our center, we can also refer you to a free pregnancy clinic near you that can assist you as you navigate your next steps. Schedule a Free Appointment If you think you may be pregnant and want to understand your options, Care Net Pregnancy Center of Frederick is here to help. Our compassionate team is here to support you with facts, not pressure - so you can make an informed decision that’s right for you. Schedule your free appointment today and explore your options in a safe, nonjudgmental environment.