FAQ

1. I already bought a pregnancy test from Wal-Mart. Why do I need to come in and be tested with you?

Sira pregnancy tests are free and confidential. Our medical grade tests are like the ones you’d get in a doctor’s office or hospital. Home pregnancy tests are usually very accurate, but not always. Your health, as well as your baby’s health, is very important. If your test with us is positive, we can talk about scheduling an ultrasound to see if you have a viable pregnancy and for you to learn exactly how far along you are. These are the first important steps you’ll need to take to start considering your options for your best possible future.

2. I had sex last night and I think the condom broke. Can I come in today for a pregnancy test?

The hormones in your body that result in a positive pregnancy test can’t be detected until 9 to 11 days after fertilization. You just need to wait until after that period of time then call and we’ll get you in for a test.

3. Can I just come in whenever, or do I need an appointment?

We want to make sure we have a special time set aside to talk with you so it’s usually best to have an appointment. Feel free to stop in if that’s not possible.

4. How long does an appointment last?

We try to schedule anywhere from 45 to 60 minutes for each appointment. This helps us get to know you so we can determine how to best help you.

5. Do I need to bring anything with me to an appointment?

To protect your confidentiality, you’ll need to bring your valid photo ID. A driver’s license or student ID will work.

6. Can I bring a friend with me?

We understand needing friends during times like this. We want to be there for you, too. Feel free to bring someone along.

7. I think I’m pregnant, but I’m on the pill. What should I do?

Even though it’s rare, it is possible to get pregnant on the pill. It’s important to know if you are pregnant, so you should definitely come in for a test. If it’s positive, we can schedule you for a free ultrasound.

8. How can I go see a doctor if I don’t have any insurance?

There are options available for people who need care even if they don’t have insurance. Sira will provide you with a free pregnancy test. If it’s positive, we can perform an ultrasound and provide a pregnancy verification form that can be used for Medicaid application.

9. I went to the doctor and found out I was pregnant. Can I come in for a free ultrasound?

Sira only provides free ultrasounds to verify pregnancy and determine how far along you are. If you already know you’re pregnant, then we can offer pregnancy support, but no further medical care.

10. Can I come in for a free ultrasound to find out the sex of my baby?

The purpose of the ultrasounds we offer is to confirm a viable pregnancy after a positive pregnancy test. We don’t provide ultrasounds to determine the sex of the baby.

11. What does “after abortion care” mean?

The process of recovering from an abortion is different for everyone. Sira offers sensitive and confidential support for women who have terminated one or more pregnancies and men who have been involved with an abortion, whether it was a recent abortion or many years ago. Please contact us if you have questions about our after abortion help.

12. If I’ve already had an abortion, what can you do to help me?

Sira is here no matter what choices you’ve made. Sometimes that just means listening. We want to offer what you need to heal or find hope for a new day–unconditionally. Simply call or email to learn what that might look like for you.

13. Can I get a PAP test at Sira?

We don’t provide that kind of medical testing, but we can refer you to some of the finest care facilities in the area and get you on your way to good health and peace of mind.

14. Can I come in and get tested for STDs?

Sira offers STI testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea.  We also provide information about other STIs so you can make informed decisions about your sexual health.

15. How do I know if I’ve been exposed to a STD?

If you’ve been sexually intimate orally, anally or vaginally, you may have put yourself at risk for an STD. It’s really that simple.

16. What’s the difference between a STD and a STI?

STD stands for “sexually transmitted disease.” STI stands for “sexually transmitted infection.” STD is the term more frequently used in the medical community, but STI is more often used in the media and amongst your peers.

17. Can a condom protect me from a STD?

Condoms can only reduce the chance of infection with STDs like Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. Herpes and HPV are found on the external genitalia; a place condoms don’t cover. The only guaranteed protection from these two STDs is refraining from any genital to genital or oral to genital contact.

18. Can I get the morning-after pill at Sira?

Sira doesn’t offer the morning-after pill or Plan B. However, it’s important for you to rule out pregnancy from any previous sexual activity, so if that’s a possibility for you, feel free to schedule an appointment.

19. Can I get birth control at Sira?

We don’t provide or refer for contraceptives.

20. I was at a party last night and when I woke up this morning I felt like someone might have taken advantage of me sexually. What do I do now?

First of all, no matter what the circumstances were, rape or sexual assault is NEVER the victim’s fault. Secondly, for both your physical and emotional health you need to seek immediate professional help. You should always report the assault to the local police force. There’s also an organization called Victim Services & Rape Crisis Center that can help you during this difficult time or you can visit your own family physician.

21. I don’t live near Gainesville. Where can I go to find a pregnancy center near me?

Option Line is available 24/7 by calling 800.395.4357. You can jump onto their website to search for a center in your area that can assist you.

woman and man holding hands over pregnant belly

performing pregnancy confirmation ultrasound

young woman receiving pregnancy options counseling

woman receiving sti test results