The Risks of Substance Use During Pregnancy

When facing an unexpected pregnancy, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. At Life Resources of Northern Michigan, we understand - because many of us have been in your shoes. Whether you’re considering abortion or simply want to understand your options, getting a confirmation ultrasound is one of the most important first steps you can take.

Navigating reproductive health care can feel overwhelming, especially as laws and regulations vary from state to state. In Michigan, abortion remains legal with certain restrictions in place. Whether you're seeking information for yourself or someone you care about, understanding the current legal landscape can support informed and confident decision-making.

The discharge of leukorrhea , clear or white, is a normal, healthy part of being a woman. Occasionally, this discharge is tinged with blood. Blood turns brown as it dries, so most of the time brown discharge is blood. Most of the time, this brown discharge is normal and not a cause for concern. The common causes of brown discharge are implantation bleeding, sex, mucus plugs, or blood. In some cases, brown discharge is considered not normal, such as: infection, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or molar pregnancy. Contact your doctor if you have questions about brown discharge while pregnant.  An OB-GYN and maternal-fetal medicine specialist in Chicago, Layan Alrahmani , says "The overwhelming majority of pregnant people with brown discharge don't have anything dangerous to be worried about."

Your baby sleeps 90% to 95% of their time in the womb. Examinations of fetal heart rate indicate normal sleep-wake cycles just like those infants experience out of the womb. During REM sleep, their eyes move back and forth just like an adult’s eyes. Adults most often dream during REM cycles . As infants experience REM cycles, many scientists deduce that infants in the womb can dream.

As your baby grows, you may begin to feel a wide range of changes. Shortness of breath and GERD (heartburn), among a long list of other changes, can disrupt your sleep before you have the baby. If you are early in the pregnancy, spikes in the hormone progesterone can cause you to feel drowsy. However, it is known that a lack of sleep is proven to increase the risk of pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and longer labors. Pregnant women absolutely need long, restful sleep. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine claims that, “Good sleep [during pregnancy] is one of the best ways to assure a healthy baby.” The Endocrine Society released a statement claiming that pregnant women who sleep less than seven hours per night may have children with developmental delays. Therefore, it is highly recommended that pregnant women get at least eight hours of sleep every night . However, the other changes your body is going through can impede your sleep cycle. Therefore, if you are battling insomnia, consult a doctor.

So, Can You Eat Mushrooms While Pregnant? The contemporary scientific literature of the time says, “Yes.” If you are pregnant or expecting, we can provide information and support at Life Resources of Northern Michigan.

Many women are reluctant to eat seafood while pregnant. This is due to research which shows that ingesting high mercury levels can have harmful effects on young people and infants in the womb. However, fish contain important nutrients such as omega-3 and omega-6 fats, iodine, choline, protein, iron, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, and magnesium. Therefore, there are certain limits of the amount and type of seafood a pregnant woman and small child can consume according to the FDA. The answer to the question, “Can pregnant women eat shrimp?” is “Yes.” Shrimp generally have low levels of mercury and are considered safe to eat while pregnant. If you are eating shrimp caught by a family or friend, use the EPA’s How’s My Waterway tool to learn about the safety of the water in which the shrimp were caught.

The emotional aftermath of an abortion can be complex and challenging, often accompanied by feelings of regret, guilt, and grief. If you find yourself grappling with post-abortion regret, it's essential to know that you are not alone. Recent research indicates that up to 44% of women may experience regret following an abortion decision . At Life Resources of Northern Michigan , we recognize the significance of coping after abortion with empathy and understanding. This article offers coping strategies and outlines how our center can provide the necessary support during this delicate time. Navigating the Emotional Turmoil of Post-Abortion Regret The emotional weight of regret can be overwhelming and isolating. You may be experiencing a range of intense emotions, from grief and guilt to a sense of loss and loneliness. Whether you feel unable to share your emotions with others or uncertain about whom to confide in, rest assured that Life Resources of Northern Michigan considers your mental health a priority. Coping After Abortion Dealing with the aftermath of a significant decision like abortion requires compassionate and holistic support. Communication with trusted loved ones, friends, or medical professionals is essential in navigating the emotional challenges you may be facing. According to the American Psychological Association , the strong link between regret and grief can manifest in various ways, such as physical discomfort, heightened anxiety, persistent thoughts about the past, and apprehension about the future.˙ Prioritizing Self-Care and Healing While coping with post-abortion regret, it is crucial to prioritize self-care practices, including maintaining a balanced nutrition and exercise regimen. Neglecting these aspects during emotionally challenging times can exacerbate the symptoms of regret. Engaging in journaling to express your thoughts and feelings can serve as a valuable outlet for processing and coping with your emotions. Additionally, connecting with post-abortive recovery groups can offer a supportive environment for your healing journey. You can connect with post-abortive support by scheduling an appointment . Compassionate Support at Life Resources of Northern Michigan At Life Resources of Northern Michigan, we are dedicated to providing confidential and compassionate care for individuals coping after abortion, and we're happy we can foster positive experiences in our clinic . We are committed to creating a safe space in which you can openly discuss your concerns and receive personalized assistance and support throughout your healing process.

Making the Right Choice: OB/GYN or Midwife for Your Pregnancy Journey