Making an appointment when you think you might be pregnant can feel like a big step.
Maybe you’ve already taken a home pregnancy test. Maybe your period is late, and you’re not sure why. Or maybe you simply have questions and want a place where you can talk with someone without feeling pressured or judged.
Whatever brought you here, knowing what to expect before your first appointment can make walking through the door a little easier.
At Zoe, A Women’s Center, our goal is to provide a respectful and compassionate environment where you can ask questions, receive evidence-based information, and better understand your next steps. Our services are free and confidential in accordance with Maine state law.
Do I Need to Know What I Want Before I Come In?
No.
You don’t need to have your next steps figured out before scheduling an appointment.
An unexpected pregnancy can bring many different emotions and questions. You may feel uncertain about what you want to do, or you may simply want more information before making any decisions.
That’s okay.
Your appointment gives you an opportunity to gather information, ask questions, and learn about the resources available to you.
Who Will I Meet With?
During your appointment, you’ll meet with a member of our team who is there to listen and help you understand the services and resources available to you.
Our client advocates strive to create a comfortable space where you can talk openly about your questions or concerns.
You won’t be expected to share more than you’re comfortable sharing, but some of the questions we ask may be personal. This helps us better understand your situation and determine which services may be appropriate for you.
Can I Bring Someone With Me?
Yes.
If having someone with you would help you feel more comfortable, you are welcome to bring someone you trust.
That person doesn’t have to be your partner. You may choose to bring a friend, parent, family member, or another supportive person.
Because some of the questions during your appointment may be personal, consider bringing someone you feel comfortable having with you during those conversations.
Will I Take a Pregnancy Test?
If you think you may be pregnant, pregnancy testing may be part of your appointment.
Zoe provides free, medical-grade pregnancy testing. Even if you’ve already taken a home pregnancy test, confirming the result can help you better understand your next steps.
If your pregnancy test is positive, our team can talk with you about additional services that may be available.
Will I Have an Ultrasound at My First Appointment?
Not necessarily.
Eligible clients may receive a free limited-obstetric ultrasound after a positive pregnancy test and medical screening. A limited-obstetric ultrasound is used to answer specific questions, including whether the pregnancy is located within the uterus, whether fetal cardiac activity is detectable, and approximately how far along the pregnancy is.
Whether an ultrasound is appropriate, and when it should be performed, will depend on your individual circumstances.
What If I’m Considering Abortion?
You are still welcome at Zoe.
If you are considering abortion, you may have questions about the abortion pill or other pregnancy options. You deserve the opportunity to ask those questions and receive evidence-based information before making a decision.
Our role is to educate and inform you, not pressure you. We desire to empower our clients to make choices they can live with.
Zoe, A Women’s Center does not provide or refer for abortion services or abortifacient medications.
What Other Services Are Available?
Medical-grade pregnancy testing is only one of the ways we serve women, men, and families in Midcoast Maine.
Depending on your circumstances, Zoe can also connect you with services and resources such as pregnancy options education, STD testing, parenting education, material assistance, and community resources.
You can ask about these resources during your appointment. If we don’t provide a service you need, we may be able to help you identify other resources in our community.
What If I’m Nervous About Coming In?
That’s understandable.
Sometimes the hardest part is simply making the appointment.
You don’t need to arrive with all the answers. You don’t need to know exactly what you’re going to do next. And you don’t need to pretend you aren’t nervous.
Come with your questions.
Our team will meet you with respect and compassion and give you space to learn more about your situation and your options.
Ready to Schedule Your First Appointment?
If you think you might be pregnant or have questions about your pregnancy, Zoe, A Women’s Center is here for you.
We provide free and confidential pregnancy services to individuals and families throughout Knox, Waldo, and northern Lincoln counties in Midcoast Maine.
Contact Zoe today to schedule an appointment and get the information and support you need for your next step.
