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Pregnancy Quiz

Posted on by Rudy

Pregnancy Quiz Am I Pregnant?

If you are wondering, “Am I pregnant?” you can read the signs that your own body is already giving you.

Please take this early pregnancy quiz for help.

If you are currently having your period, then it is most likely that you are not pregnant. If the time that you normally have your period has passed, then you might be pregnant. According to the Mayo Clinic, a missed period is one of the most common early signs of pregnancy. “If you’re in your childbearing years and a week or more has passed without the start of an expected menstrual cycle, you might be pregnant. However, this symptom can be misleading if you have an irregular menstrual cycle.” 1

When the fertilized egg attaches to the wall of the uterus, this may cause spotting and even cramping. WebMD says this is called “implantation bleeding.” This “occurs anywhere from 6 to 12 days after the egg is fertilized. The cramps resemble menstrual cramps, so some women mistake them and the bleeding for the start of their period. The bleeding and cramps, however, are slight.” 2

The American Pregnancy Association reports that this is one of the most reported symptoms of pregnancy . “Changes to the breasts can start as early as 1 to 2 weeks after conception.” 3

Morning sickness or nausea is a common sign of pregnancy. “Not all women experience nausea, while others experience it throughout their pregnancy,” reported Medical News Today. “Nausea can begin as early as 5 weeks, with most women experiencing some level of nausea by week 8 of pregnancy.” 4

Frequent urination is common early in your pregnancy. Due to hormonal changes, the increasing size of the uterus itself and increased blood circulation to the pelvis, you may find yourself visiting the restroom more frequently. Additionally, increased hormone levels may result in constipation.

If you are pregnant, you may start to experience cravings for certain foods. This is common both early and late in pregnancy. It is also common to have an aversion to both the taste and smell of certain foods.

Feeling dizzy or light-headed, especially immediately after standing or changing your position quickly, can be a sign of pregnancy.  Dizziness may be the result of a change in your blood volume and blood pressure or a deficiency in iron.

Due to hormonal changes in your body you may experience headaches.

Early in pregnancy, an increase in hormones may result in mood swings. When added to the potential stress caused by the uncertainty of pregnancy, you may feel sad, sulky or irritated.

“You may feel fatigue early and late in pregnancy,” according to the March of Dimes. “Your body may be tired  because:

It’s working hard to take care of your growing baby. Your body’s making pregnancy hormones and you’re using a lot of energy, even when you sleep.

You may have trouble sleeping at night because you’re uncomfortable or you need to get up to go to the bathroom. Later in pregnancy, leg cramps may wake you up at night.“ 5

Another way to determine if you are pregnant is to take an over-the-counter pregnancy test.  Home pregnancy tests claim to be 99% accurate but there is a slight chance that they can be wrong, which is called a “false-positive.”  A false-positive may result if the fertilized egg is no longer attached to the uterine lining or from side affects from fertility drugs or problems with your ovaries. There is also a chance for a false-negative result. This can happen if you take the test too early, if you use the test kit incorrectly or you have diluted urine. Reading and following the directions precisely will reduce the possibility of this happening. Choice Care will give you a free and confidential clinical grade pregnancy test with more accuracy.

Thank you for taking this quiz. We hope that it has helped you and given you some of the information for which you are looking.  If you would like more information, contact: Choice Care

Can Women Eat Ranch

Posted on by Rudy

CAN PREGNANT WOMEN EAT RANCH DRESSING?

You’re pregnant. The world has changed; your life has shifted. You’re two people now instead of one, carrying a growing child within you. You’re feeling overwhelmed by all of the new rules. Not to mention, your neighbor down the street just told you that you can’t eat ranch dressing.

“When you’re pregnant, everything that goes into your mouth gets shared with your growing baby. Even though some types of foods and even some types of food poisoning may not hurt you, they may harm your little one.” (1)

As soon as someone tells you that you are no longer allowed to have a certain food, it becomes all you can think about. Soft cheese? Deli meats? Soft-boiled eggs? Wine? Regardless of whether or not you ate these foods before pregnancy, they are now all that you can think about.

It’s no secret that there are differing opinions about what pregnant women are supposed to avoid. Some guidelines seem more relaxed, while other articles make you feel guilty for eating anything at all. How are you supposed to know what exactly you should and should not avoid? How can you feel safe consuming foods that no one ever explicitly mentions? What are the main ingredients in ranch dressing? How do you decide whether or not to eat it when you’re pregnant?

WHY WOULD I NOT BE ABLE TO EAT RANCH DRESSING?

  •  

As your baby develops, you are their sole source of nourishment, which means what you eat is important. Women who are pregnant pass nutrients to their babies, but they can also pass on harmful bacteria or viruses (2). Certain foods can affect the baby in a dangerous way, and it’s up to you to ensure that you don’t eat something toxic. Some of these foods include:

  • fish high in mercury
    • (king mackerel, big eye tuna, swordfish, etc.)
  • raw meat
  • raw eggs
  • soft cheese
  • unpasteurized foods
  • excess caffeine
  • alcohol
  • unwashed fruits and vegetables (2).

 

Many of the reasons to avoid these foods come down to harmful bacteria. This bacteria could cause illnesses like food poisoning or listeria. Though these diseases wouldn’t necessarily be fatal to an average adult, they very well could harm your growing baby. The Women’s Centre of Lakewood Ranch writes that “While adults are able to fend off listeria, unborn children can suffer a life-threatening infection or blood poisoning” (3).

 

Now, this doesn’t mean that if you have the smallest taste of queso fresco at a party, you will harm your baby. However, these foods could be dangerous if an expectant mother eats them regularly (4). 

 

Food guidelines aren’t put in place to keep you feeling on-edge about the life you’re forming. They are there to help you provide the best environment possible for your sweet babe to grow.

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WHAT IS RANCH DRESSING MADE OF?

Ranch dressing, along with most other salad dressings, is delicious. Ranch goes with everything and is a staple in the American diet. Some are afraid the dressing contains raw or undercooked eggs and stay away from it (2). However, if you check the label for egg content, you’ll find that it does not contain eggs. Therefore, you’re free to continue your love affair with one of America’s best dressings.

 

There are plenty of other specific foods you may not be sure about eating. Consider the ingredients while deciding what is safe for a pregnant woman to eat. Watch out for raw eggs, as they may put you and your infant in danger of salmonella poisoning (5). Because hollandaise sauce, bearnaise sauce and aioli sauce are made with partially cooked eggs, they should be avoided. Avoid meringue desserts and homemade ice cream because the egg could be undercooked (5). Pregnant women should not eat sauces made at home like homemade mayonnaise or Caesar dressing, because the eggs may not be cooked up to temperature.

 

This may sound like a lot of restriction, but the good news is that store-bought salad dressings, are safe for pregnant women to eat. This includes mayonnaise, Kraft ranch, Caesar salad dressing, bleu cheese ranch dressing, and most other dressings. This is because the FDA requires all commercially produced dressings to be pasteurized. This means that the milk has been heated to a high enough temperature to kill harmful bacteria (6). Purchasing most dairy products from your local grocery store, like sour cream, and cottage cheese would also be a safe bet. Another important thing is to check the list of the product’s ingredients for pasteurized eggs, which means it is safe to consume.

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GREAT! I CAN EAT RANCH DRESSING, BUT WHAT ABOUT THE OTHER FOODS?

If you’re beginning to feel a little overwhelmed by all these guidelines, rest assured, you’re not alone. You’re going through massive amounts of change in this time of life, and it makes perfect sense that the last thing you want to do is to change your diet.

 

When you think about it, though, there are plenty of options open and available. Try swapping out soft cheeses with a variety of hard cheeses. Stay away from homemade sauces and stick to store-bought dressings and ice cream for a while. Simply microwave your deli meat before adding it to your sandwich. Avoid a runny egg yolk by boiling your eggs a few minutes longer. Get in the habit of checking the main ingredients of the products you buy at the store. If you’re concerned about an ingredient you haven’t heard of before, like xanthan gum or soybean oil, simply do a quick check on your phone before adding it to your cart.

 

Though this time of your life is incredibly different than any other you’ve ever experienced, rest assured that your body knows what to do. In fact, you will more than likely know what you should be eating based on your pregnancy cravings. Oftentimes if you’re desperate for a certain food, it could mean that you’re lacking in important nutrients. If you’re craving salty foods, you may be dehydrated. If a huge steak sounds delicious, you may need more iron (7).

 

You are an intuitive being and the most important thing you can do is to tune into your instincts. This will ensure you’re caring for yourself and your baby in the very best way. Listen to your body, listen to your doctor, and feel free to continue to enjoy that ranch dressing!

What about hot Cheetos?

 

Learn why you have cravings

–like Cheetos–and what to do about them.

Read More

Disclaimer: This website is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  Choice Care does not provide abortions or give referrals for abortions.

Sources

 
  1.  Greenlaw, E. (2021, March 19). Foods to Avoid in Pregnancy. WebMD. 
    https://www.webmd.com/baby/foods-avoid-pregnancy

  2. Mayo Clinic Staff. Pregnancy Nutrition: Foods to avoid during pregnancy. Mayo Clinic. 
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/pregnancy-nutrition/art-20043844

  3. Foods to Avoid While Pregnant. OBGYN Women’s Centre of Lakewood Ranch, LLC. 
    https://obgynwc.com/what-foods-to-avoid-while-pregnant/
     
  4. Food Safety First. Department of Health and Human Services. 
    https://www.cdc.gov/listeria/pdf/hispanic-pregnant-women-soft-cheese-factsheet-508c.pdf

  5. Can You Eat Aioli Sauce When Pregnant? Know Your Pantry. 
    https://www.knowyourpantry.com/sauces/can-you-eat-aioli-sauce-when-pregnant/

  6. Waggot, G. (2022). Can Pregnant Women Eat Ranch Salad Dressing? Is it Safe? Pregnancy Food Checker. 
    https://www.pregnancyfoodchecker.com/pregnant-ranch-salad-dressing-safe/

  7. Bouchez, C. (2008). Pregnancy Cravings: When You Gotta Have It! Grow by WebMD. 
    https://www.webmd.com/baby/features/pregnancy-food-cravings
 

Can Pregnant Women Eat Cheetos?

Posted on by Rudy

Can Pregnant Women Eat Cheetos?

Everyone knows about the unusual things that many women crave while pregnant. (If you read our last article, you know ranch dressing is one craving.) Whether it be pickles and peanut butter or eating two gallons of ice cream a day, it’s fun to laugh about when it’s not happening to you. But now you’re pregnant, and you’re starting to miss eating certain foods that you could once consume without any worry. It may even be foods you never cared to eat before you were pregnant! One of these bizarre food cravings may be Cheetos. We’re here to answer the question you are asking: can pregnant women eat Flamin’ Hot Cheetos? To start off with, let’s look at why you may be having this desire for spicy food. 

 

Why Do I Crave Cheetos?

Pregnancy cravings can be caused by a number of things, although there is no definite science behind it all. Food cravings typically begin during the first trimester and peak in the second trimester. However, they can happen anytime during pregnancy, and there is no scientific evidence to confirm exactly why. (2) 

 

Despite this, many researchers have tried. So why Cheetos? A 2014 study found that women may crave spicy food because they often feel hot, and spicy foods stimulate them to sweat and cool down. (5) However, this is just one of many theories, so look through the other options before you jump to conclusions about why you have a Hot Cheeto obsession. 

 

These are the main reasons that many researchers speculate a pregnant woman experiences odd food desires:

  • There are many hormonal changes that happen during pregnancy. These changes affect your senses of taste and smell, and in turn, your preferences or food aversions as well. (5)
  • Another likely explanation is that food cravings may be linked to the same changes in hormones that make a pregnant woman feel nauseous early in pregnancy. (5)
  • If you crave a certain food, it may indicate that you have a deficiency of certain nutrients in your body. (1)
  • For instance, if you don’t have enough sodium in your body, you may crave Cheetos, to help with the deficiency. (1)
  • However, this theory is not completely proven. So do not assume every craving is satisfying a biological need. In fact, studies show that many women who report strange cravings tend to gain more weight than is considered healthy during pregnancy. This means that these cravings may be driven by something other than biochemical needs. (3)
  • One of the biggest reasons women experience pregnancy cravings is mental or cultural causes. (3)
  • Think of when you were a kid, and your mother wouldn’t let you eat a cookie before bed. You may not have even wanted the cookie that bad, but now because you know you can’t have it, it becomes all you think about. 
  • Similarly, a strong desire for pickles, potato chips or Hot Cheetos may start out as a simple thought. Overtime, however, it can grow into an obsession that is hard to resist simply because you know you can’t have it. (3) 

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Are Cheetos Safe to Eat While I'm Pregnant?

Now that we know why you may be craving Cheetos right now, let’s look into if they are safe for you to eat or not. And, spoiler, you can stop holding your breath; the science shows that Cheetos, even Hot Cheetos, are OK to eat – in moderation.

What Are Cheetos Made Of?

Cheetos, like many processed foods, do contain some natural ingredients. Most Cheetos are made of around 30% natural ingredients, such as citric acid. (1) The rest, however, are synthetic food additives which enhance flavor and make the food last longer. (1) These additives may be unhealthy for your baby, and for you as well. Let’s look deeper into exactly what Cheetos contain.

Artificial Flavors

In 2018, the FDA banned six synthetic food flavorings because the chemicals have been shown to cause cancer in lab animals. Oftentimes, these chemicals are listed as “artificial flavors” on food labels. (4)

 

Artificial Coloring

Many artificial coloring additives have been banned in other countries. And there are studies that show they may impact behavior in children. For those reasons, they may be harmful to you and your unborn child during pregnancy. (4)

 

MSG

MSG is a flavor enhancer found in many foods, including Cheetos. What it does is replicate the umami flavor, which is basically a taste sensation similar to savory. Although it is valuable as a flavor enhancer, studies have shown that there are possible toxic effects related to it. (4)

What Are the Effects of Pregnant Women Eating Cheetos?

Despite the questionable contents of Cheetos listed above, you shouldn’t worry too much. The health of your unborn baby will not be hurt after a few handfuls of chips. Many healthcare providers agree that Cheetos/spicy foods are not the best meal options while pregnant. (1) But, good news, they are alright in moderation. (1)

 

However, there are some side effects that can come from eating your normal diet that are enhanced by pregnancy. Here are a few of the health issues you may need to consider before grabbing that next bag of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos: 

Cause Heartburn

During the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, spicy foods are more likely to cause heartburn. The baby growing in you creates an increasing pressure on your abdomen, causing lower pressure on the esophageal sphincter. (That’s the area where your esophagus joins your stomach.) This makes acid reflux more common during this time. (5)

Worsen Morning Sickness

During the first trimester, hot foods can worsen morning sickness. Eating spicy snacks can trigger the release of stomach acid, making nausea and vomiting worse. (5) Since you and other pregnant women probably already experience all-day nausea, you might want to skip the spice.

 

Diarrhea

Spicy foods often cause stomach irritations and digestive issues. When you’re pregnant, the main concern with diarrhea is the possibility of dehydration. For this reason, if you are going to eat spicy foods you should increase your intake of fluids. Also, if you’ve never craved hot food before, it is best to start with milder types and consume less to build a tolerance before working up. (5)

Thirsty after all the Spice?

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Alternative Options to Cheetos and How to Deal with Cravings

Now you know pregnant women can eat Hot Cheetos while carrying an unborn baby, by doing so in moderation. But perhaps you want to stop the cravings or avoid any negative side effects from eating Cheetos or any other odd junk food combinations. Read on for better healthy food alternatives to eat.

 

First off, the main way to prevent pregnancy cravings is to make sure you eat well-balanced meals throughout the day. (2) Also, if regulating a healthy diet is difficult to manage on your own, make sure you have a lot of emotional support. Whether that be from a partner, a friend, or a parent, having someone to encourage you can keep you mentally on track with your food goals. 

 

Another good option which has been mentioned before is eating whatever you’re craving but in moderation. If you have it set up in your mind that you’re never allowed to eat a certain type of food, it makes it very difficult to control yourself once you do have it. (3) This prevents one thing leading to another when you allow yourself some indulgence. 

 

Lastly, here is a list of some alternative food options that are scientifically proven to be healthiest for you and your unborn child! (6) 

  • Artichokes
  • Asparagus
  • Broccoli
  • Cauliflower
  • Celery
  • Corn
  • Cucumbers
  • Peppers
  • Salad greens
  • Squash
  • Sweet potato
  • Beans
  • Chicken
  • Eggs
  • Fish
  • Lamb
  • Lean meat
  • Meat substitutes like tofu
  • Nuts
  • Peanut butter
  • Pork
  • Turkey
  • Veal
  • Brown rice
  • Cereals
  • Oatmeals
  • Whole-wheat pasta
  • Apples
  • Avocados
  • Bananas
  • Citrus fruits
  • Dried fruits
  • Grapes
  • Mangos
  • Pears
  • Pomegranates
  • Strawberries

Low-fat pasteurized…

  • Cheese
  • Milk
  • Yogurt

Limited to 6 teaspoons a day…

  • Canola
  • Olive
  • Safflower

Source: Family Health Centers of San Diego (6)

 

To recap, pregnant women can eat Cheetos, but they may experience heartburn, morning sickness and/or diarrhea. Eat in moderation and listen to your body. Now that you know what may be causing your strange craving for Cheetos and how to help it, hopefully, your mind is a bit more at ease. Being a new mom and trying to take care of the growing baby inside you can be confusing and stressful at times, but you’ve got this!

Sources:

  1.  Yarnell, K. (2022, March 9). Can you eat hot cheetos while pregnant? Wholesomealive.com -a blog about Healthy Living. Retrieved June 24, 2022, from https://wholesomealive.com/can-you-eat-hot-cheetos-while-pregnant/ 
  2. Dragon, N. (2017, October 27). Why pregnancy can make you have weird cravings. intermountainhealthcare.org. Retrieved June 24, 2022, from https://intermountainhealthcare.org/blogs/topics/intermountain-moms/2016/10/why-pregnancy-can-make-you-have-weird-cravings/ 
  3. Greenwood, V. (2020, July 15). The surprising reason why pregnant women get cravings. BBC Future. Retrieved June 24, 2022, from https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20200715-the-surprising-reason-why-pregnant-women-get-cravings 
  4. Brady, J. (2022, May 18). Can you eat Cheetos while pregnant? [with 4 yummy alternatives]. Green Baby Deals. Retrieved June 24, 2022, from https://greenbabydeals.com/can-you-eat-cheetos-while-pregnant/ 
  5. Macapagal, J. (2021, June 10). Can you eat hot cheetos while pregnant? Spicy Foods explained. Birthing For Life. Retrieved June 24, 2022, from https://birthingforlife.com/can-you-eat-hot-cheetos-while-pregnant/
  6. Family Health Centers of San Diego. (2022, March 9). An essential guide on what to eat during pregnancy. Family Health Centers of San Diego. Retrieved June 24, 2022, from https://www.fhcsd.org/prenatal-care/what-to-eat-during-pregnancy/  

Your Cozy-Season Reset Guide

Posted on by Rudy

Your Cozy-Season Reset Guide

Cozy-Season Reset

Little Life Edits I’m Making This Fall

From my perspective: just a grad figuring out “real life,” one latte at a time.

I don’t know who needs to hear this, but your life does not have to be perfectly sorted by October. Fall shows up anyway—gold leaves, chunky sweaters, and that first sip of something warm that makes the day feel softer. Honestly? I love that. It’s permission to exhale, take stock, and make small edits that add up.
This summer was a blur for me—internships, late nights with friends who felt like family, a couple “maybe this is something?” moments, and too many sunscreen-in-the-eyes selfies. Fun, yes. Also…a lot. Now the air is cooler, my calendar is simpler, and I’m noticing what I actually want to carry into this next season.
Here are the tiny shifts I’m trying—nothing extreme, just realistic. Think of them as simple lifestyle changes for fall that help me reset without pressure.

Fall Permission Slip

It’s okay if your life isn’t Instagram-perfect. Gold leaves don’t wait for you to be ready—they just fall.

Morning Margins.

Instead of diving into the day with chaos, I’ve been trying something different. One morning last week, I resisted the urge to grab my phone. I made coffee, opened my journal, and scribbled down three things I was grateful for. By noon, I noticed I was less reactive when a work email landed wrong. It’s amazing how 10 quiet minutes can change the pace of an entire day.
 
Fall Selfcare Tip: Try the “5-4-3-2-1” grounding exercise—five things you see, four you can touch, three you hear, two you smell, one you taste.

The Friend Audit (Kindly).

I’m giving more time to people who make me braver and kinder—We all know the difference between friends who fill our cups and those who leave us drained. After that summer party, I asked myself: Who are the people I walk away from feeling heavier—and who leaves me lighter? That reflection helped me gently step back from one social group and lean into deeper one-on-one friendships.
“Connection is why we’re here; it’s what gives purpose and meaning to our lives.” —Brené Brown

Move Like I Mean it.

I move not to “fix” anything, but to feel better in my own skin. Walks with a podcast, gym on rainy days, dancing in the kitchen when it’s all I’ve got.
I used to think movement had to mean a long workout or hitting a certain number of steps, but I’ve learned that even ten minutes can change my mood. One humid August morning I tried to force a run and quit halfway through—it felt like punishment. That moment reminded me movement should feel good, not like a chore.
 
Now I ask myself what kind of energy I need. Sometimes it’s slow and steady, like a neighborhood walk while catching up on a podcast. Other days it’s playful, like turning up the music and dancing while I cook dinner. Rainy days might take me to the gym, but even then, I keep it simple. The point isn’t perfection—it’s presence. Every time I move, I feel a little more like myself. These small routines have become part of my healthy fall habits.

Gentle Boundaries.

This one has been the hardest for me, because saying “no” can feel like letting people down. For a long time, I stretched myself thin out of fear of missing out or disappointing someone. But the truth? Every time I said yes when I didn’t have the energy, I ended up showing up halfway—for them and for me.
This fall, I’ve been practicing saying no without guilt. A simple “I can’t this week, but I’d love to rain-check” is saving me from the spiral of over-committing. Last weekend, when someone invited me to yet another packed outing, I replied: “That sounds fun, but I’m prioritizing rest this weekend—let’s catch up soon?” The surprising thing? They understood. The world didn’t end.
 
Remember: Boundaries aren’t walls; they’re doors you control.
I’m learning that gentle boundaries are less about shutting people out and more about protecting the space I need to show up well when I do say yes. And that feels like growth.

Future Me Notes.

Looking back, that night on the porch swing at the summer party feels like a turning point. It was a messy chapter—a moment of realizing I wasn’t in sync. But it also became the nudge I needed to choose quieter, more intentional days. Fall reminds me that letting go, just like the trees dropping their leaves, makes room for something better. What decisions today will thank me six months from now? That’s the heart of any fall reset—making space for the future you’re growing into.”
 
Self-Care Reminder: If overwhelm hits, pause and ask: What one small thing can I do right now to feel 1% better?
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If your summer came with a few messy chapters (same), you’re still welcome here. Fall is basically the season of do-overs. It’s okay to pivot, to ask for help, to say “I don’t know yet,” and to choose what’s healthiest for you next. You’re not behind. You’re building.
I’m also reminding myself: caring for my whole self matters—mind, body, heart. Sometimes that means booking a check-in with someone who listens well; sometimes it’s a practical health step so I can move forward with peace of mind. If that’s you, I wrote a quick, judgment-free guide that might help.

NEXT READ → Your Quick Health Check: STI & Pregnancy Testing + Ultrasounds

You’ve got a lot of exciting, adventurous days ahead. Life doesn’t have to be perfectly sorted by October. Make the small edits. Choose the kind thing. Trust that your life can be both a work-in-progress and really, really beautiful.
 
“Fall is proof that change is beautiful.” —Unknown

5+healthy drinks for pregnancy

Posted on by Rudy

5+Healthy Drinks For Pregnancy

One of the first things you learn when you get pregnant is what not to do. And everyone seems to want to give their own well-meaning but contradicting opinions. Maybe you’ve been missing your morning coffee ever since your mom told you it’s bad for the baby. What exactly can you drink? Luckily, you don’t have to give up all the good stuff (not even Starbucks). We’re here to give you some good drink options, as well as advice on the bad ones. Here are 5+ healthy drinks for pregnancy that you can enjoy!

Did your sister tell you to avoid spicy foods because she heard it isn’t good for pregnant women? (See our next article coming soon  on that!)

Do You Have Strange Food Cravings?

 

Check out why, plus a healthy foods list! 

Knowledge is Spicy

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Healthy Drinks for Pregnancy Water

To start off the list, we have the most obvious healthy drink for pregnancy: water. 

Pregnancy aside, one of the most important things you can be drinking daily is water. But if you are pregnant, having enough fluids becomes even more important. Water keeps the amniotic fluid replenished, your cells hydrated, and keeps your health good in general (1).

How much water should you be drinking? According to Healthline, pregnant women should drink about 80 ounces of water every day (1). This is only eight ounces more than is recommended for women who aren’t pregnant (1). 

If you are breastfeeding, Healthline says that your water consumption should go up to about 104 ounces (1). Moral of the story: it’s a great idea to drink lots of water! Your body–and the baby–will thank you for it. 

But what if water makes you nauseous?

Lemonade

If you’re pregnant in the summertime, chances are you’ve already sat down with a big glass of lemonade. In fact, lemons are beneficial for you in a surprising way.

As stated earlier, water is the best source of hydration. But some women have trouble drinking water without becoming nauseated. Infusing water with lemon juice or making some lemonade can help your daily water intake and fix your nausea (1). The American Pregnancy Association (APA) says that sniffing lemons can help nausea from morning sickness (1). So go ahead: grab that sweet glass of lemonade! (Just make sure there isn’t a ton of added sugar). 

Sweet Healthy Drinks

Fresh fruit juices are great, as long as they’re pasteurized. Everyone loves a refreshing glass of orange juice in the morning with their breakfast. And you can still enjoy it too as a sweet pregnancy drink! 

Pasteurization is the process that removes harmful bacteria from juices (2). This is why it is important that you only drink pasteurized juices, even if you prefer the “natural stuff.”

Two healthy juices that boost immune system health for pregnant women are orange juice and cranberry juice. OJ contains potassium, which can help lower high blood pressure (1). High blood pressure can be a dangerous condition in pregnant women. And the Vitamin C in the juice will enhance iron absorption (1). Cranberry juice is made up of 90% water (3). This means it will keep you well hydrated! And the high dietary fiber in the drink works against constipation (3). 

Pasteurized Milk

Just like our bodies need water, pregnant women also have calcium needs. It’s recommended that pregnant women drink about eight ounces of milk per day (5). While there isn’t an issue with drinking whole milk, it is suggested that you drink skim or low-fat milk (5). This is typically healthier whether pregnant or not and can prevent extra weight gain (5).

“But what if I’m lactose intolerant?” Surprisingly, studies have shown that even if you had symptoms of lactose intolerance before getting pregnant, they can disappear! (1). You may find that you can now tolerate cow’s milk. If you still have symptoms after a glass of milk, try non-dairy milk. “Soy milk is a viable alternative. Just be sure to choose brands that have added calcium.” (1).

Similar to juices, it’s important for the milk you drink to be pasteurized to prevent any bacterial infections.

Smoothies

Smoothies are one of the best things you can drink while pregnant. In your first trimester, it can be difficult to keep food down. Smoothies are an easy way to get a lot of essential nutrients without having to eat a full meal (4). Nutritionist Tamara Melton explains, “There’s something about the combo of liquid and cold. Women tolerate smoothies better than, say, spinach omelets.” (1). 

70% of women surveyed by Parents admitted to making healthier diet choices when they became pregnant (1). But only 37% were meeting the recommended amount of fruit and vegetable servings per day (1). 

Smoothies are a great way to get all of those vital nutrients. Just make sure you put some greens in your cart, not just fruit, when shopping at grocery stores

Herbal Tea

If you want a reviving hot or cool ice tea, herbal tea may be a good option for you. Herbal tea is a good alternative for leaf teas as these are often fruit or herb-based and caffeine-free (5). Since pregnant women should cut down on caffeine, it’s a good choice for a healthy pregnancy drink. 

According to the APA however, you shouldn’t drink just any herbal tea.(1). Herbal teas can be unsafe if they are not commercially made (1). This is because the “amounts of each ingredients are controlled in commercial tea bags,” whereas they might not be in homemade teas (5). 

These are three popular teas for pregnant women that can be enjoyed as a hot drink or as iced tea: (5)

  • Ginger Tea – Ginger helps with indigestion and can relieve stress. 
  • Lemon or Lemon Balm Tea – Like we said earlier, lemon is good for nausea, as well as stress relief. 
  • Peppermint Tea – This can reduce “digestive discomfort, bloating and also prevents nausea.”

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Drinks to Avoid While Pregnant

While it is exciting to hear that many of the drinks we love are safe to consume while pregnant, there are bad pregnancy drinks you should still avoid. But don’t worry! They’re easy to steer clear of. And we’ve even offered some alternatives! Read on to see what kinds of drinks to avoid while pregnant. 

Alcohol

Most people know that alcohol is the one drink you should avoid completely if you are growing a baby. But maybe you don’t know exactly why. Let us explain.

The liver is one of the last organs to develop. Because of this, fetuses are not able to process alcohol in the same way adults can (2). In the first trimester, drinking can increase the risk of miscarriage, early birth, and low birth weight (2). In the second and third trimesters, drinking could affect your child’s behavior and learning ability (2). 

Consuming alcoholic beverages while pregnant can cause a wide range of complications. Not only is the mother affected, but the child as well. It is best to stay away completely from the substance.

What about after the child is born? 

If you are breastfeeding, it is best to continue avoiding alcohol. Excessive drinking can lead to problems in infant growth and development (2). However, according to the CDC, you can drink one drink per day and it not be detrimental to your baby’s health. But you must wait two to three hours before breastfeeding (2). In conclusion, if you want to drink while breastfeeding, it is recommended to do it in moderation.

Unpasteurized Milk and Juice

Up at the top of the healthy drink list is pasteurized milk and juice. It’s no surprise that the unpasteurized versions of said drinks are on the bad list. 

Raw milk is “milk from cows, sheep, and goats–or any other animal–that has not been pasteurized to kill harmful bacteria.” (1). Without pasteurization, dangerous bacteria can be present in the milk. Bacteria can cause food poisoning (1). One of these harmful bacteria, Listeria, can cause an infection called listeriosis (1).

According to genetic counselor Sara Roirdan, pregnant women are “particularly susceptible” to this disease (1). It can be devastating and “even deadly for unborn babies.” (1). Although raw milk has seen a bit of movement in the United States, the FDA advises everyone to avoid it (1).

Drinking unpasteurized juice is just as harmful. Mothers can contract E. coli, which puts you at risk for “premature rupture of the amniotic sac, low birth weight, or stillbirth.” (2). Overall, skip the “natural stuff” and stick to pasteurized drinks.

Caffeinated Drinks

This may be one of the hardest types of drink to avoid on this list. Coffee, soda, sports drinks, energy drinks and tea (except most herbal teas) all have caffeine in them. 

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), pregnant women should to limit their caffeine intake to less than 200 milligrams per day (6). While this may seem easy, lots of things have caffeine. One cup of coffee, a couple bites of a chocolate bar, and you may already be over your caffeine limit for the day. For that reason, it’s best to steer clear of too much caffeine for the most part. 

The issue with caffeine is similar to alcohol. Caffeine is absorbed very quickly and passes into the placenta (6). Babies can’t metabolize caffeine, so high levels can build up quickly (6). These high levels can lead to restricted fetal growth and an increase in the risk of low birth weight (6). 

We know how much coffee means to a stressed and frazzled mom, however! There is some silver lining. According to this website, there are a number of Starbucks drinks that–in limited amounts–are still safe to drink! Feel free to check it out. 

Are There Other Healthy Drinks for Pregnancy?

There are plenty of homemade drinks you can create that are safe to drink while pregnant. Check out this website for 17 healthy drink recipes for pregnancy that you can make in your kitchen. One of those is apple cider vinegar drinks–yum! Or if you want something simple but energy-boosting, coconut water has been found to be a beneficial and tasty drink for a healthy pregnancy. 

And as always, talk to your doctor about what is best for you. If you don’t have a personal physician, you can sign up for a consultation at Choice Care and we can get you set in the right direction.

Sources:

  1. Schumacker, L. (2022, January 12). 11 beverages you should drink while pregnant and 11 beverages you should avoid. TheList.com. Retrieved July 13, 2022, from https://www.thelist.com/77249/7-beverages-drink-pregnant-7-beverages-avoid/
  2. Brighten, J. (2021, March 5). 12 foods to avoid during pregnancy. Dr. Jolene Brighten. Retrieved July 13, 2022, from https://drbrighten.com/12-foods-to-avoid-during-pregnancy/
  3. Benjamin, J. (2022, April 5). 9 healthy juices you should drink during pregnancy. MomJunction. Retrieved July 13, 2022, from https://www.momjunction.com/articles/healthy-juices-you-should-drink-during-pregnancy_00121738/
  4. G, L. (2022, July 5). Best healthy pregnancy drinks (besides water!). Birth Eat Love. Retrieved July 13, 2022, from https://www.birtheatlove.com/pregnancy-drinks/
  5. Waggott, G. (2021, September 27). 10 drinks pregnant women can enjoy besides water. Pregnancy Food Checker. Retrieved July 13, 2022, from https://www.pregnancyfoodchecker.com/10-drinks-pregnant-women-can-enjoy-besides-water/
  6. Bjarnadottir, A. (2020, August 13). 11 foods and beverages to avoid during pregnancy. Healthline. Retrieved July 13, 2022, from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-foods-to-avoid-during-pregnancy

How To Talk To The Father of The Baby

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How To Talk To The Father Of The Baby

You have taken the pregnancy test and found yourself to be pregnant. You share the news with your parents. Maybe with a close friend. You need to talk to the father of the baby. This may be a nerve-wracking proposition, but in this article, we’ll give some tips on how to talk with him about the future. We will discuss how to prepare yourself to deal with toxic and supportive responses.

Process and Prepare

Right now you may have a storm of emotions washing over you. The feelings of shock, denial, anger, and grief can be overwhelming. These are natural. You will want to process your feelings before talking with the father of the baby. This journey of grief over the loss of innocence and the weight of the new reality you find yourself in can be perilous.

When you tell the father, remember that he is at a different point in this journey. His reaction may be similar to yours: shock, denial, anger, etc. His timeframe to process these feelings will be unique to him, not the same as you. Be understanding as he proceeds on this path, and be prepared to give answers and directions as to what is next. Having a strong relationship with your parents or other trusted adults will help you to be prepared. The best approach is to have a plan of action and affirmative statements before talking with him.

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His Response To The News

Every pregnancy story is as unique as the individuals who comprise them. When you talk with the father of the baby, remember that he is not you. He has an upbringing and internal compass specific to him. He is male. Depending on his age, he will develop emotionally at a separate pace than you. He is not pregnant. The physical and emotional reality of the pregnancy is much more personal to you. This does not mean he does not care or is incapable of empathy and concern. It means that his response to the news and the journey of the pregnancy will be his own.

 

One way to share the news of the pregnancy is to share an ultrasound picture (or video). Often, seeing an ultrasound can help a guy process the reality of pregnancy. An ultrasound moves the baby from an idea to a reality. An ultrasound can help a father-to-be bond with the unborn baby.

Toxic Response To Pregnancy

It is possible that when you talk with the baby’s father you will receive a very negative response. In fact, that response may be downright toxic. In order to prepare for this there are a few things to remember and be prepared to stick to as non-negotiable.

Define roles – state early that you are making decisions in this pregnancy. While he is welcome to be a positive participant in the pregnancy, the final say will lay with you and your parents.

Set boundaries – you will set the level of involvement in your pregnancy. In a healthy relationship, an involved father is a wonderful thing. A toxic relationship or toxic response will require that you are steadfast in your beliefs and decisions about your pregnancy.

Establish responsibilities – the birth and care of a child will involve many responsibilities. Set the expectations for yourself and the father of the baby. Unspoken expectations will lead to disappointments, frustrations, and anger.

Seek legal protections – some actions and attitudes may require legal interventions to protect you and your baby. Read more about what to do if your boyfriend wants you to end your pregnancy.

You are not alone.

Hear from other women facing a boyfriend who wants an abortion.

Contact Today!

Supportive Response To Pregnancy

Hopefully, when you talk with the father of your baby, he and his family will be supportive of your decision to carry your baby. Even if he is supportive, there will still need to be established roles, responsibilities, and boundaries between you two. Clear expectations will help prevent interruptions in your relationship. Work to foster a positive relationship with the father’s family. They will be grandparents soon, and you can expect them to be part of your child’s life in the future.

 

Parents can have their own expectations. In some situations, parents may anticipate that marriage will follow childbirth. Marriage can be a wonderful way to strengthen the bond between mother and father and establish a supportive and loving home for the child. But, it must be what you want, and what the baby’s father wants. If you believe that you are being coerced into marriage, there are services available to help you protect your freedom.

 

Marriage is not the only option available for a positive parenting experience. Some couples may choose to co-parent instead. It is possible to have a healthy parenting relationship with the father of the baby without having to have a romantic one. When you co-parent, the mutual focus of raising a thriving child can unite the mother and father in a common goal. This goal requires open communication, clarity of purpose, and mutually agreed-upon objectives. Parenting is challenging, even for married couples. A good attitude and communication will go a long way to a successful parenting relationship.

Help Him Prepare For Fatherhood

Just as you may be discovering how to be a mother, the young man who is the father of your baby will be discovering how to be a dad. A great place to start is at a local Pregnancy Resource Center.

Both of you can benefit from a listening ear. Plus, you can learn about relationships, childbirth, and parenting through courses. And that’s not all the resources that are available to you at your local center. You both may need help with finding employment or continuing education so that you can help provide for your baby. Choice Care can guide you. Being prepared and proactive will help ensure a good relationship with the father and a healthy pregnancy for you and the baby.

Sources

What to Expect from an Early Ultrasound Scan

Posted on by Rudy

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM AN EARLY ULTRASOUND SCAN

Many pregnant women thinking about getting an early ultrasound have questions. We want to answer your questions so you know what to expect. 

A few things to know about early ultrasound scans:

  • Ultrasounds at Choice Care are free
  • Ultrasounds are safe
  • We can help you prepare – and you do not have to go alone
  • How early ultrasounds work and what they look like
  • Common reasons for an early ultrasound

 

If you have more questions after reading this article, we would love to talk with you. Schedule an appointment with us, below.

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ULTRASOUNDS AT CHOICE CARE ARE FREE, EVEN IF YOU DO NOT HAVE INSURANCE.

Thanks to our generous donors, we are able to provide you with a free ultrasound. You do not need insurance. We provide this as a service to you and your unborn baby. Our pregnancy center is a nonprofit organization, and we are here to support you. We keep your information completely confidential and do not profit from any decision you make. For more information about pregnancy centers, click here. (1)

WHEN DONE BY A CERTIFIED HEALTH CARE PROVIDER, ULTRASOUNDS ARE SAFE FOR YOU AND YOUR BABY.

Early ultrasounds are medical diagnostic procedures. An ultrasound machine is safe when used by a certified health care provider. If you schedule a prenatal ultrasound with us, you and your baby will be free of any dangerous risks. (2) 

 

 

We understand if you are anxious to see your ultrasound image and we are happy to show you images from your ultrasound scan. Keeping that in mind, the reason for an early ultrasound is to help you know about your health and your developing baby. For that reason, we encourage you to view this procedure as a medical process that serves your health and your baby’s health. There is more information about common reasons for early ultrasounds below.

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PREPARING FOR YOUR ULTRASOUND

There are a few things you might find helpful to know before scheduling an appointment with us. The first thing to know is that we may ask you to drink fluids and avoid urinating for a specific amount of time before the procedure. (More about this in the next section.)

 

We also want you to know that you do not have to come to your appointment alone. If you would like, you may bring your husband or boyfriend, a parent, or another supporter. It may be helpful for them to be aware of how things are developing with your pregnancy as well.

 

HOW EARLY ULTRASOUNDS WORK AND WHAT THEY LOOK LIKE.

A fetal ultrasound, also called a sonogram, produces images of your baby in the womb by using high-frequency sound waves. 

 

Early ultrasounds are done in the first 14 weeks of pregnancy and show images of the baby’s early development stages. (3) Routine ultrasound images are typically black and white. They are usually somewhat fuzzy but are detailed enough to show us what we need to know about fetal growth. For this reason, it may not be easy for you to identify exactly what you are seeing on the screen. We’ll help you understand what we’re seeing and what it means. We will also give you the option of keeping a few printed images from the scan.

 

There are a few things you will notice when you look at the ultrasound screen. You will see a white image of your baby and umbilical cord, against a dark background. Your doctor will learn a lot of important information about your developing baby by observing these images.

 

For example, a 7-week old baby is just the size of a blueberry, but already has developed limb buds, outer ears, and nearly complete eyelids. At this stage, your baby also has an increased heart rate since the last week and cells that are developing muscles and a spinal column. (5)

 

We share more details about what we can learn together after we cover the two types of ultrasounds. 

 

THERE ARE TWO TYPES OF EARLY ULTRASOUNDS: ABDOMINAL AND VAGINAL.

The transabdominal or standard ultrasound is what you’re probably picturing. (4) To prepare for transabdominal ultrasounds, we ask you to drink a few glasses of water a couple of hours before the procedure. This is because a full bladder helps the high frequency sound waves move more easily, to help provide a clear picture. (6)

 

This is a painless procedure and it usually takes about 20 minutes. To begin, we will ask you to lay on your back on an examining table. Next, we will apply a gel to your abdomen and move a scanner over it. The scanner is a small, hand-held device that is connected to a screen which instantly shows images.

Another type of ultrasound is transvaginal ultrasound. These are usually done for the early stages of pregnancy, or when the images from a transabdominal ultrasound are not quite clear enough. We do not provide this type of ultrasound, but it may be helpful to know about it because it is common.

 

For this procedure, your health care provider will likely ask you to change into a gown and undress from the waist down. Next, you will lie down on an examining table and place your feet in stirrups. 

 

For this process, your health care provider will use a small, slender scanner. The scanner is shaped like a wand. It is covered with a plastic sheath and lubricated before being placed into your vagina. The process is also about 20 minutes long and may cause some discomfort, but shouldn’t be painful. (3)

 

Both types of early ultrasounds are for early pregnancy, in your first trimester. To learn more about additional ultrasounds in the second trimester or third trimester of pregnancy, click here. (7)

COMMON REASONS FOR AN EARLY ULTRASOUND.

One of the most common reasons for an early ultrasound is to confirm pregnancy, which your doctor can also confirm with a blood test. Other reasons include: checking if there is more than one baby and determining your baby’s gestational age, health, and location. Gestational age estimates the weeks of gestation to determine your baby’s due date. 

 

When it comes to your baby’s health, we will be checking on your baby’s heartbeat, muscle tone, movement, and determine if there are any birth defects. (3)

 

Location is something we will look for, because in certain cases a baby may be developing outside the main cavity of the uterus. This is called an ectopic pregnancy. Most ectopic pregnancies are in the fallopian tube and you can learn more here. (3) Additionally, we will be able to examine the health of your ovaries and uterus. (2)

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LIMITS OF EARLY ULTRASOUND

Your ultrasound test will be 2D, not 3D images or 4D ultrasound. However, there is a lot of useful information we can learn together from your pregnancy ultrasound.

 

It will also be helpful for you to know about a few things that an early ultrasound cannot determine. First, it cannot determine your baby’s sex. This is because early ultrasounds are done in the first trimester, and a baby’s gender can only be determined after the second trimester, after 18 to 21 weeks of pregnancy. (3) 

 

Second, ultrasounds in the first six to eight weeks of pregnancy cannot determine the presence of Down syndrome. Doctors don’t perform a nuchal translucency ultrasound for Down syndrome until 14–20 weeks gestation, and then only if a past screening test showed a problem. (3) For other types of ultrasounds and how they work, click here. (2)

 

What we learn about your health, and the health of your baby will help you make decisions that are best for you both. This is the first step in the process and we would love to go on the journey with you.

Ultrasound photo

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Sources:

 

(1) Care Net. What is a pregnancy center?: Care net pregnancy centers. Pregnancy Centers.
https://www.care-net.org/what-is-a-pregnancy-center

 

 

 

(2) Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2020, November 6). Fetal ultrasound. Mayo Clinic.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/fetal-ultrasound/about/pac-20394149 

 

 

 

(3) March of Dimes. (2019, October). Ultrasound during pregnancy.  https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/ultrasound-during-pregnancy.aspx

 

 

 

(4) Riley, L., & Isidro-Cloudas, T. (2019, December 2). What to expect at your first ultrasound. Parents. https://www.parents.com/pregnancy/my-baby/your-babys-first-ultrasound/

 

 

(5) Riley, L., & Gough, K. J. (2009, November 5). Week 7 ultrasound: What it would look like. Parents. https://www.parents.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/7/your-growing-baby-week-seven/

 

 

(6) Better Health Channel. (2014, August, 31). 
Pregnancy tests – ultrasound.
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/pregnancy-tests-ultrasound

 

 

(7) Harris, N., & O’Brien, T. (2022, June 14). Pregnancy ultrasounds week by Week. Parents. https://www.parents.com/pregnancy/stages/ultrasound/ultrasound-a-trimester-by-trimester-guide/

 

 

(8) March of Dimes. (2017, October). Ectopic pregnancy. https://www.marchofdimes.org/complications/ectopic-pregnancy.aspx

 

 

(9) American Pregnancy Association. (2022, February 11).
Ultrasound: Sonogram.
https://americanpregnancy.org/prenatal-testing/ultrasound/

 

 

Medical Abortion Experience: Nobody Told Me

Posted on by Rudy

Medication Abortion Experience: 'Nobody Told Me'

Trigger warning: pregnancy termination (Medical Abortion or MA)

Harper* thought MA would be as easy as taking Tylenol for a headache. She took a pregnancy test early and wanted a self-managed abortion in the privacy of her own home. She had easy access to pills online, and assumed ending a pregnancy would be like miscarriage. Plus, she guessed she was about 10 weeks since her last menstrual period. She didn’t have to travel out of state for her abortion experience.

What does grapefruit have to do with induced abortion? Taking the pill isn’t going to be as safe and effective when there’s grapefruit in the mix!

Abortion Care

Harper took the first pill, mifepristone, as directed, and then a few hours after taking misoprostol (the second drug in the abortion pill regimen) she threw up and experienced severe cramping.  The experience was worse than what they said. She was expecting period cramps, not labor.

“I literally gave birth, and nobody told me it would be like that. The contractions were so intense it was unbearable. About 15 mins before it was out I started telling my partner to call someone because I couldn’t handle it anymore.”

Next, her water broke, and then another push later baby came out quickly along with big clots. She immediately felt relief, so she grabbed a glove and fished the embryo out of the toilet. Harper noticed the legs were moving and she could feel the heartbeat in her hand. The heartbeat slowly faded and the embryo stopped moving. Harper was in shock and unsure what to do, after experiencing the most pain she’d ever felt in her whole life.


“Definitely [sic] the most traumatic thing either of us have been through. 🙁 ” she wrote. [1]

 Are two pills safer than Tylenol? Your reproductive health matters. Legal abortion does not necessarily mean safe abortion.

More Abortion Experiences

Likewise, other individuals who decided to terminate their pregnancy share their stories about abortion at home.

“I had a MA at 14 weeks when I was 17 with pills I got online. I bled so much and it was the most horrifying, painful experience of my life. I would have been saved so much trauma if I had been able to consult with a doctor first who could’ve warned me that I’d see this and have to decide what to do with it.” [2]

Common themes include feeling unprepared by the abortion clinic, pain and bleeding, and other complications from medication abortion (infection, heavy bleeding for longer than 21 days). Often individuals have to seek a surgical evacuation for incomplete abortion.

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Fast Facts about Medication Abortion

  • MA has a four times higher complication rate than surgical abortion [3]
  • Risks increase as the pregnancy progresses (pills are not FDA-approved after 10 weeks, regardless of your state’s legislation, or what Planned Parenthood says.) [4]
  • Skipping ultrasound runs the risk of undetected ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the uterus). Half of women who have an ectopic pregnancy do not have known risk factors, per ACOG. [5] Two pills won’t treat an ectopic pregnancy.
  • People are not being screened for coercion or abuse. 67% of women described their abortions as either “accepted but inconsistent with their values and preferences” (43%) or “unwanted or coerced” (24%). Only 33% identified their abortions as wanted. [6]
  • Abusers may try to dose their pregnant victims without their knowledge or consent. For example, Robert Kawada is facing numerous charges including poisoning, assault, and battery for allegedly tricking his ex-girlfriend into taking pills to end pregnancy. [7]
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Before You Get an Abortion

Want to talk to someone who won’t profit from your decision? Pre-abortion consultations at Choice Care exist to answer your reproductive questions. While you’re there, get a [referral for] an ultrasound. 

Schedule Now!

When it comes to unplanned pregnancy, making the right choice can be extremely difficult. Each story is unique.


Another poster commented about health care professionals not giving people access to appropriate information:

“I’ve had the same.. they really should tell the patient this may happen. I was 9 ish weeks, came out the same. This is incredibly painful, emotionally damaging and not an easy decision to make. I wish people were more compassionate.” [8]

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After Terminating a Pregnancy, Now What?

Did you numb out after your abortion? Or feel a mix of relief and regret? Whether you felt unprepared to see your unwanted pregnancy outside the womb, or your abortion was done in a clinic, find support for abortion healing.

Process your abortion procedure with our staff, some of who have their own abortion stories.

Schedule now!
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Disclaimer: We do not provide or refer for abortions.

Sources

*Harper’s story is an aggregate of women’s stories.

  1. di Fiore, B. (2024, May 7). “I just want my baby back”: Reddit poster shares traumatic abortion pill experience. Live Action News. https://www.liveaction.org/news/baby-reddit-traumatic-abortion-pill-experience/
  2. Short-Size838. (2023, July 21). 10 week old fetus. MedicalGore. https://www.reddit.com/r/MedicalGore/comments/155atyt/comment/jsx4qxz/
  3. Niinimäki, M., Pouta, A., Bloigu, A., Gissler, M., Hemminki, E., Suhonen, S., & Heikinheimo, O. (2009). Immediate complications after medical compared with surgical termination of pregnancy. Obstetrics and gynecology, 114(4), 795–804. https://doi.org/10.1097/AOG.0b013e3181b5ccf9
  4. Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. (2023, September). Questions and answers on mifeprex. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation
  5. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2020, April). Ectopic pregnancy. ACOG. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/ectopic-pregnancy Last reviewed: May 2024
  6. Reardon D C, Rafferty K A, Longbons T (May 11, 2023) The Effects of Abortion Decision Rightness and Decision Type on Women’s Satisfaction and Mental Health. Cureus 15(5): e38882. doi:10.7759/cureus.38882
  7. Pelisek, C. (2024, May 29). How a Mass. man was caught allegedly tricking his ex-girlfriend into taking pills to end pregnancy. People.com. https://people.com/man-allegedly-tricked-woman-pills-abortion-8655337
  8. Otherwise_Grape262. (2021, July 21). 10 week old fetus. Medical Gore. https://www.reddit.com/r/MedicalGore/comments/155atyt/comment/jstuumw/