the power of ultrasound in saving lives

A client arrived today insistent about needing the abortion pill and although the hotline had clearly stated what our services are - she was angry and confused about why she could not get the abortion pill from us and turned to leave. 

Attempting to engage her with a few questions, she told us she had already been to Planned Parenthood a month ago for an ultrasound which prompted a long conversation with her and revealed that she was, in fact, too far along to legally obtain the abortion pill. 

When we asked if she knew what her options were-she said no. Again, we offered for her to stay for an ultrasound and consultation. She finally agreed. 

Her initial intake revealed little about why she felt so strongly that abortion was her only option. The ultrasound showed an 11 week baby - fully formed and "bouncing" on the screen. 

The nurse asked her if she wanted a boy or girl. 

Her answer: I don't want a baby. 

But when the nurse showed baby on the TV screen and showed her that she in fact already had a baby and then went on to describe her only abortion option- a surgical abortion - the client shuddered and then took out the abortion education information that we had handed her when she was threatening to walk out- and ripped it up and threw it on the floor!!! 

The client said - I thought it was just eggs- there are arms and legs already?? 
I could never do that (abortion) and said "I think I want a girl". 

The nurse reassured her that we would walk with her in this pregnancy and informed her of parenting classes and other community services to support her. She left with images of her child and pink booties in hand and allowed the nurse to pray over her and her child. 

This is such a wonderful example of the power of ultrasound!