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Confirm pregnancy with testing and ultrasound

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Learn about your options

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Experience peace and confidence

If you think you might be unexpectedly pregnant, it’s very common to have a broad range of emotions and questions. You’re not alone. We’re here, right by your side. Take the first step with pregnancy confirmation test and ultrasound services in Northridge, California. We proudly serve clients from all over the San Fernando Valley.


Our compassionate team will then listen to your concerns and help you understand and navigate your options and the emotions that come with a pregnancy. We don’t offer prenatal care, abortion services or pills. Instead, we empower women and men through knowledge given with honesty, respect, and confidentiality.


Pregnant and don’t know what to do next?

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Who We Are & How We Help

Open Arms is a Community Health Clinic licensed by the California Department of Public Health.


We specialize in early pregnancy confirmation and offer support for pregnancy-related decisions including ultrasounds, education, resources, and help navigating all the options available to women facing an unplanned pregnancy.


All our services are always free and we never profit from your choice.


Take the first step with free and confidential clinical pregnancy testing and confirmation. We’re a safe place to explore your options. Our doors are open, our arms are open, and we’re ready to help you through this.


California Minor Consent Law – Under California law, adolescents of any age may consent to pregnancy-related services, contraception, and sexual assault services without the need for parental consent.



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HONESTY

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CONFIDENTIALITY

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COMPASSION

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RESPECT

Services We Offer

PREGNANCY TESTING


Think you’re pregnant? We offer free pregnancy testing and confirmation services. Our pregnancy testing is administered by a medical professional, who will meet with you to discuss your questions and concerns.


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ULTRASOUND


After a positive pregnancy test, the next crucial step is a limited OB ultrasound. This ultrasound confirms pregnancy viability, assesses the stage of pregnancy, and is essential for making informed decisions.


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OPTIONS CONSULTATION


Our staff will empower you with the knowledge necessary for you to explore all your pregnancy options – parenting, adoption, and abortion. Always compassionate. Always non-judgmental. Always free.


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PARENTING+ CLASSES


We offer continuous support and education throughout your journey, covering topics like pregnancy, parenting, relationships, and life skills in our Parenting+ classes.


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HELP FOR MEN


If your partner is facing a possible pregnancy, your head may be spinning with questions. That’s normal. Open Arms has male support staff here for you, too. Learn about our services.


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SUPPORT AFTER ABORTION


Sometimes an abortion experience may produce a variety of emotions that can come when you least expect it – even years later. This class helps women experience grace and healing.


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Blog

Abortion Laws California
July 1, 2025
Whether you're seeking information for yourself or someone you care about, understanding the current legal landscape can support informed and confident decision-making. Open Arms in Northridge, California, provides information on abortion and free ultrasound services to confirm a viable pregnancy.
June 23, 2025
Learn about abortion laws in California. Get facts, not pressure. Free, confidential support in Northridge. Schedule your appointment today.
June 2, 2025
A Window into the Miracle of Life Pregnancy is an incredible journey, filled with excitement, anticipation, and plenty of questions. One of the most special moments for expecting parents is seeing their baby for the first time. Thanks to modern technology, ultrasounds provide a real-time view of the developing baby, helping to monitor both maternal and fetal health throughout pregnancy. If you’re curious about how ultrasounds work and what they reveal, this guide will walk you through the science behind them, the different types available, and what to expect during your appointment. What Is an Ultrasound?1 An ultrasound, or sonogram, is a medical imaging technique that uses sound waves to create pictures of the inside of the body. During pregnancy, ultrasounds allow healthcare providers to visualize the developing baby, track growth, detect abnormalities, and monitor the well-being of both mother and baby. Unlike X-rays, which use radiation, ultrasounds rely on sound waves, making them a safe, non-invasive, and widely used method for monitoring pregnancy. Types of Pregnancy Ultrasounds Different types of ultrasounds serve unique purposes throughout pregnancy: 1. Transabdominal Ultrasound This is the most common type of ultrasound. A technician applies a gel to the abdomen and moves a handheld device (transducer) over the belly to capture images of the baby. This method is typically used after the first trimester, once the baby is large enough to be seen through the abdominal wall. 2. Transvaginal Ultrasound Used early in pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, this ultrasound provides a clearer image when the baby is still very small. A small transducer is inserted into the vagina to get a closer view of the uterus. It’s often used to confirm pregnancy, detect ectopic pregnancies, or monitor early fetal development. 3. 3D and 4D Ultrasounds These advanced ultrasounds provide a detailed, three-dimensional image (3D) or real-time video (4D) of the baby. These ultrasounds are usually more for entertainment and bonding purposes. When Are Ultrasounds Performed? Ultrasounds are conducted at different stages of pregnancy to monitor both mother and baby’s health. Here’s a general timeline: First Trimester (6-13 Weeks) Confirms pregnancy Detects heartbeat Estimates gestational age and due date Checks for multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.) Assesses early fetal development and position Second Trimester (14-26 Weeks) The anatomy scan (usually at 18-22 weeks) examines the baby’s organs, limbs, and spine Measures growth and development Can reveal the baby’s sex if desired Third Trimester (27-40 Weeks) Checks the baby’s growth and position (head-down, breech or transverse) Monitors placenta health and amniotic fluid levels Conducted if there are concerns about the baby’s movements or heart rate What Can an Ultrasound Reveal? Ultrasounds provide vital insights into pregnancy, including: ✔ Fetal Heartbeat – Verifies that there is fetal cardiac activity which can be visualized at 5 weeks 5 days after the last menstrual period. ✔ Gestational Age – Helps estimate due dates based on baby’s size. ✔ Fetal Growth & Development – Tracks the baby’s growth and development. ✔ Multiple Pregnancies – Identifies if you're expecting twins, triplets, or more. ✔ Baby’s Position – Determines if your baby is head-down for delivery. ✔ Placenta & Amniotic Fluid – Ensures proper function and healthy levels. ✔ Baby’s Sex – Can often be identified around 18-20 weeks. Source: Professional, C. C. M. (2025, March 19). Ultrasound in pregnancy. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/9704-ultrasound-in-pregnancy
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