Unplanned pregnancy continues to be a problem for women in Louisiana and the United States. There were 67,843 births to Louisiana women between 2000-2002 (Louisiana Health Report Card). Each year it is estimated that more than 20,000 women experience a crisis pregnancy. Many of these women – young, poor, and undereducated, generally lack regular prenatal health care. For these women, the decision to carry to term or terminate the pregnancy is a complex and personal one. Pregnancy help centers, maternity homes, and adoption centers have been effective at helping women on a one-on-one basis. The Care Pregnancy Clinic, through the Life Choice Project, offers critical personal, prenatal, and post partum support that often prevents women from making a life-altering mistake. The Care Pregnancy Clinic operates a statewide initiative offering compassionate, life-affirming choices to women, particularly low-income women. The program offers pregnant women clear, accurate and timely information about their choice in ensuring a healthy full-term pregnancy rather than terminating their pregnancy. Through counseling, health assessments, and other services, the project offers caring support to women in crisis pregnancies, empowers them to make informed choices, and helps them consider life-affirming alternatives.
