Free Pregnancy Testing
Our pregnancy testing services are 100% free and confidential.
Pregnancy Testing at Alpha
We offer free urine pregnancy tests administered by medical professionals here at Alpha. To get tested, schedule an appointment or walk in at any time during our open hours. A partner or support person is welcome to come with you. After the test is administered, a trained professional will explain the results and the options available to you if the test is positive. A photo ID is required for all pregnancy test appointments.
Why Alpha?
If you have had unprotected sex, believe you or your partner may be pregnant, or are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, Alpha Grand Rapids is here to support you. It’s about you. We value your privacy, your safety, and your right to choose. Our goal is to provide a place where you can receive expert, personalized care, both during the decision-making phase of your pregnancy and beyond.
Early Signs of Pregnancy
If you are experiencing many of the following symptoms, you may be pregnant.
However, the only way to positively confirm a pregnancy is through a test.
Missed or Irregular Period
A period is considered late when it doesn't appear within 7 days of its expected arrival. Light pink or brown spotting with no regular flow can also be a sign of early pregnancy.
Breast Tenderness
Hormone changes in early pregnancy can cause your breasts to swell or become more tender than usual.
Lack of Energy
Feeling tired and less energetic than usual can be a sign that you are pregnant.
Frequent Urination
Pregnancy hormones cause increased bloodflow to your pelvic area, which can lead to more urination.
Mood Swings
Rising levels of hormones in your body can cause you to feel overly sad, irritable, or moody.
Nausea or Vomiting
Nausea symptoms from changing hormones can appear very early in pregnancy.
Unexplained Weight Change
Morning sickness and water retention can cause unexplained weight loss or gain in early pregnancy.
Constipation
Certain pregnancy hormones can cause your digestive tract to slow down, causing constipation.
What to Expect
Below is what you can expect when you visit our clinic for a pregnancy test.
If you think you might be pregnant, the first step is to contact us. You can call or send us a message to schedule an appointment or stop in anytime during our business hours. Please remember that a photo ID is required before any services can be provided and that a typical appointment at AGR lasts approximately one hour.
Parking is available on-site at our center. For bus or taxi information, see our contact page. Enter through the front door on Division Avenue by pressing the gray button. If you have an appointment, check in with our receptionist at the front desk to let her know you have arrived. If you do not have an appointment, simply let our receptionist know that you would like a pregnancy test and she will guide you through what is needed. You will receive an intake form to complete and be seated in our waiting room until a trained staff member is available for the next steps.
Even if you've already taken an at-home test, we will provide a test for you for our records. A staff member will guide you through the necessary paperwork before providing instructions on how to take a pregnancy test. The pregnancy tests at Alpha Grand Rapids are urine tests, and results are ready in approximately five minutes. The staff member will explain your results to you.
If your pregnancy test is positive, our staff will provide you with as much information as you would like, including:
- Your approximate due date
- Prenatal care information
- Prenatal vitamins
- AGR programs you can join for more information, resources, and support
- Referrals to a medical doctor or other organizations, if required
If you are feeling unsure about continuing with your pregnancy, we can provide you with more information about your options. Our staff members will address any concerns you have or obstacles you are facing with genuine care and expert knowledge about resources that can help.
Ultrasounds are free and available by appointment to those who qualify. A Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS) will perform your ultrasound and assess the viability of the pregnancy. Ultrasounds are then reviewed by a doctor. Our ultrasounds do not replace your regular OB/GYN appointments, nor do they determine the gender of the baby. Alpha Grand Rapids (AGR) provides a safe, compassionate place for you to discuss your options and receive information, resources, and support.
Your Choices
We understand that you face a challenging decision if your pregnancy test is positive. After your pregnancy test and ultrasound, we provide options counseling for you and your partner. Whatever you decide, you won't find any judgment here.
Abortion
- Abortion pills are only effective before eight weeks gestation. Two pills need to be taken—one to stop the development of the pregnancy, and the other to cause contractions to expel the fetus. Common side effects include cramping and bleeding. Complications include impartial abortion, which can cause a serious infection. Abortion pills should be taken under medical supervision.
- Surgical abortion can happen at any gestational stage in the state of Michigan. A surgical abortion is an outpatient procedure, typically done under sedation. In the procedure, your cervix will be dilated and suction will be used to expel the fetus from the uterus. Common side effects of this procedure include cramping and bleeding, but serious complications can occur like an incomplete abortion or damage to the cervix or uterus.
Adoption
If you choose to place your child for adoption, we can support you in this decision and have community partners who can help you navigate the adoption process. Keep in mind that adoption is not “giving up” your child—you have the authority to choose how active you want to be in your child’s life moving forward, and you have a say in who will adopt your child. Our team is happy to talk through adoption options with you, ensuring that both you and your child are well cared for in the process.
Parenting
If you choose to continue the pregnancy and parent your child, Alpha Grand Rapids is here to support you. From mentorship to support groups to material resources, we want to help you be the best parent you can be. We can also connect you with community partners that help with housing, employment, and anything else you might need.