Information is far from scant when it comes to pregnancy, in fact the sheer amount of it can be overwhelming, and sometimes misleading. Below is a no-nonsense guide to all of your pregnancy options.
First thing's first though, are you pregnant? You can come for a free pregnancy test at either the women's office or that of the welfare officer - we have reliable tests (the same one you'd get at the doctor!)
We can help you through the decision-making process and we recognise it's a difficult thing to do, whatever your ideas or background. That's why we're committed to be non-judgemental, impartial, and keep everything 100% confidential.
Having a baby - as a student this can sometimes seem a daunting prospect but real choice should include this too. The University has an interruptions policy, which means you can interrupt your studies at any time when permission has been given by your course supervisor. There is also a university nursery, though waiting lists are long so it's important to get on it as soon as you find out you might need it. The women's office can also be used as a breast-feeding space. Either way, if you have decided to continue a pregnancy to full term, it's useful to tell someone from the University as early as possible so that arrangements can be made for your progression.
For some women, having a baby just isn't an option. In which case, it's important to know the facts around abortion (as myths abound).
There is no known link between abortion and future infertility: FACT There is no proven link between abortion and long term mental health problems, the most oft-reported feeling after an abortion is relief: FACT. Abortion in England, Scotland and Wales is completely legal, and free on the NHS. A good place to go in Manchester is the Brook Centre, whose number is 0161 237 3001. They would be able to organise things for you, as well as getting doctors permission. Otherwise you could make an appointment with your GP, who can refer you for an abortion. Although abortion is low-risk, the risks do increase as time goes on, so if you decide to have an abortion it's important to do it as early as possible. There's lots of support out there if you are considering this option. There's no need to tell the University if you have an abortion, and your parents don't have to be informed either.Some women decide that although they don't want to become a parent, they don't want an abortion either. Giving a child up for adoption means taking a pregnancy to full term, and then giving the baby to an adoption agency. The British Association for Adoption and Fostering North West can tell you whom to contact in the local area. Advice and information line: 0113 289 1144.
If you are struggling to make a decision about your pregnancy, or need some help in pursuing the choice you've made, then you can come into the women's office any time. Equally, if you are the partner of someone making these choices, you can come in too. Remember, it's your choice!