(Please note, no content of this article is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.)

What happens in an Ectopic Pregnancy?

The word “ectopic” literally means out of place. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized embryo implants somewhere other than inside your uterus. About 1 in 50 pregnancies are ectopic and the frequency of ectopic pregnancies has been increasing in recent years.

The most common type of ectopic pregnancy is called a tubal pregnancy, where the pregnancy implants inside the fallopian tube. The Mayo Clinic also notes other types of ectopic pregnancy which implant in other areas, such as the ovary, abdominal cavity, or the lower uterus.

Why is an Ectopic Pregnancy a Medical Emergency?

The normal location for a pregnancy is inside the walls of your uterus, which can accommodate a growing pregnancy. Because your pregnancy will grow in size, if your pregnancy is attached somewhere other than inside the uterus, like in a fallopian tube, there is a risk of rupture and internal bleeding.

If left untreated, an ectopic pregnancy can be serious or fatal.

Suspected ectopic pregnancies may be detected with an ultrasound. It’s important for any pregnancy that you have an ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy location.

What causes ectopic pregnancy?

There is no single cause for an ectopic pregnancy. However, a study in the International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics identified several risk factors associated with ectopic pregnancy, including:

• Previous ectopic pregnancy
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Infertility
• Abdominal or pelvic surgeries
• Previous tubal ligation
• Advanced maternal age
• Smoking
• More than one sexual partner
• Previous use of emergency contraception
• Use of Intrauterine device (IUD)

What are signs and symptoms that my pregnancy is ectopic?

The American Pregnancy Association and the Cleveland Clinic list several potential symptoms of ectopic pregnancy. Immediately go to the nearest emergency room if you experience any of the following symptoms while pregnant:

• Intermittent or persistent sharp or stabbing pain (may be one-sided) in the pelvis, abdomen, or shoulder/neck area
• Weakness, dizziness, or fainting
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Bleeding less than or more than normal menstrual period

Why is an Ultrasound necessary for suspected ectopic pregnancies?

An ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images of the inside of your body. It shows the location of the pregnancy.

If the pregnancy is visibly outside the uterus, further testing and evaluation by a physician will confirm an ectopic pregnancy and immediate treatment will be started.

Ectopic pregnancies are life-threatening if they grow large enough to rupture and damage internal organs.

Next steps

If you have an unexpected pregnancy, or are concerned your pregnancy may be ectopic, your first step is to obtain an ultrasound, which will include determining the location of your pregnancy. 

Here at Waterleaf Women’s Center, our licensed medical professionals can provide you with a free ultrasound. No insurance is required. 

Our team is here to provide you with compassionate care and answer any questions you may have about your pregnancy or life situation. Contact Waterleaf confidentially today by calling or texting 630-360-2256.

If your period is late or you have missed a period, it is important to first understand why your menstrual cycle has stopped. It may be a sign of pregnancy or other conditions needing medical attention.

What is in period pills?

Before you take any pill, it’s important to know what the pill is and what it may do to your body. Typically, what is called a “period pill” is the drug mifepristone, sometimes called the abortion pill.  As part of the regimen, a doctor might also prescribe misoprostol, which causes bleeding and contractions to empty the contents of your uterus.

What do period pills do?

When a woman is pregnant, her normal menstrual cycles stop. This is why a late period might be a sign of pregnancy. When you read about taking a “period pill,” it likely refers to taking the abortion pill regimen, which is intended to end a pregnancy and eventually help your body to return to your normal menstrual cycle.

What if I take period pills when I’m NOT pregnant?

If you are not pregnant, you would take unnecessary medical risk by taking the period pill. You could avoid the following side effects by avoiding the pill.

Medications have risks, adverse side effects, and contraindications. If you take “period pills” when you are not pregnant, you still may experience some of the side effects associated with the pills, such as “cramping and vaginal bleeding” or other common side effects like nausea, weakness, fever/chills vomiting, headache, diarrhea, and dizziness. You should also consult a medical professional about conditions that may conflict with the period pill, like anemia or other conditions.

If you have taken negative pregnancy tests but still have a period that is a week or more late, medical professionals recommend that you check with your doctor.

What if I take period pills when I AM pregnant?

Period pills are the same as the abortion pill, which is intended to end a pregnancy. This works by depriving the pregnancy of the hormone progesterone which the pregnancy needs to continue. Your provider may also prescribe misoprostol, which causes bleeding and contractions to expel the pregnancy.

Side effects of the period pill include the same as those mentioned earlier – nausea, weakness, fever/chills vomiting, headache, diarrhea, and dizziness. There are also conditions you may have that would conflict with the period pill, such as anemia or other health conditions. Consult a medical professional about any conditions you may have prior to obtaining the pill.

If you are pregnant, there are also risks such as excessive bleeding, an incomplete abortion (when there are still contents of the pregnancy in your uterus), and serious infection.

Do I need a pregnancy test and ultrasound first?

Some websites say you do not need to obtain a pregnancy test or ultrasound before you take the period pill. These websites say if you happen to be pregnant, period pills will end the pregnancy and bring your period back.

However, not obtaining a pregnancy test and ultrasound before taking the pill can be dangerous for several reasons.

• The FDA only approves the period pill (mifepristone) up to 10 weeks (or 70 days) of pregnancy. If you do not obtain an ultrasound to determine gestational age, taking the pill could be especially dangerous if you are farther along in your pregnancy than you thought.
• About 1 in every 50 pregnancies is ectopic – meaning the pregnancy has implanted outside the uterus. The FDA specifically says the period pill “will not be effective to terminate an ectopic pregnancy.” If you have a suspected ectopic pregnancy, you would be advised to seek immediate medical attention as it is a very serious and life-threatening condition. This is another reason why it is very important that you obtain an ultrasound before you take the pill.
• During an ultrasound, a medical professional will also check to see if a heartbeat can be detected. If you had a positive pregnancy test and no heartbeat is detected, it may indicate you could naturally miscarry. In this case, the recommendation is to follow up with your physician, and you would avoid taking any unnecessary period pills that could cause unwanted side effects.

What is my next step?

If you are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and are considering the period pill, you can make an appointment here at Waterleaf Women’s Center for a free pregnancy test and ultrasound. No insurance is required. Our medical professionals can answer your questions or address your concerns with compassionate non-judgmental care.

Call or text Waterleaf confidentially today at 630-360-2256.

It’s important that you take the time to address what concerns you have about your pregnancy or why you may feel you are not ready to be a parent.

Let’s review some of the concerns many women have, resources you may not know about, and next steps.

Why Am I Considering Abortion?

Studies show that approximately 93–95% of all abortions are chosen for “elective” or unspecified reasons. Elective abortion doesn’t include categories like abortion involving rape or incest or other health-related factors.

The top reasons women said they sought abortion were: feeling not ready, feeling unable to afford a child at the time, or not wanting more children.

Identify your Root Concern

Perhaps you feel that having a child would prevent you from accomplishing schooling, personal, or work goals. Many women who have been in your same situation were surprised to discover resources and assistance they previously didn’t know about.

For instance, pregnancy resource centers are a great place to start. Here at Waterleaf Women’s Center, we can provide you with a free consultation.  Our professionals specialize in providing education, answering questions, and connecting you with resources specific to your situation.

Some of the resources that you may qualify for include:

• financial aid
• food and baby supplies
• tuition assistance
• housing assistance
• emotional support
• and more

Many women have utilized resources like these, which addressed their root concerns.

Other women were surprised that having a child helped them in ways they did not anticipate. Women who were concerned about having more children have found another child was beneficial to their other children. In one study, 91% of women said having a child was much more fulfilling than they expected.

Having an abortion is associated with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and higher risk for PTSD. It’s important that you take the time to make an informed decision after receiving resources available to you.

What is My Next Step?

Take the time to identify your root concerns. What leads you to ask, “Is abortion the answer for me?”  It’s an important decision and you deserve to know all the medical facts about abortion and what resources are available to pregnant women just like you.

Schedule a free appointment at Waterleaf Women’s Center today, which includes a resource assessment. No insurance is required. Our medical team and resource professionals can answer your questions and provide you with compassionate care.  Call or text confidentially at 630-360-2256.

What is the abortion pill?

The abortion pill is a combination of two sets of pills to end an early pregnancy. The first pill is mifepristone, which ends your pregnancy by blocking the nourishment your pregnancy needs to continue. The second “pill” is a set of multiple pills, called misoprostol, which cause bleeding and contractions to expel your pregnancy.  The second set of pills is usually taken 24-48 hours after taking the first abortion pill.

What are risks of buying the abortion pill by mail?

One of the risks to be aware of is the possibility of scam websites claiming to sell the abortion pill.  Instead, they may sell lower dosage pills or counterfeits that could be dangerous to you.

The FDA warns: “FDA Does Not Recommend Buying Mifepristone Online” nor “personally transporting it from a foreign country.”The FDA cannot verify the “safety, effectiveness, and quality” of such drugs.

The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy reports “nearly 95% of websites offering prescription-only drugs online operate illegally.”They also cite the ASOP Global Foundation survey that 24% of Americans who have used an online pharmacy have been exposed to “harmful, counterfeit, or substandard medication.” Scam Adviser has identified multiple online abortion pill vendors who are selling the drug illegally.

The amount of time it takes to receive the abortion pill by mail can also increase your risks.  For example, one study reported that women received the abortion pill usually within 3 weeks, but in as many as 5 weeks. That means your pregnancy will have continued for 21-35 more days before you take the pill. This can be especially risky to you if your pregnancy is more developed than you thought. The FDA approves the abortion pill only up to 10 weeks of pregnancy. Taking the abortion pill beyond the recommended timeframe could put your health at risk even more. The risk of needing additional surgery after taking the abortion pill increases the further along the pregnancy is.  

There are also risks whether you obtain the abortion pill by mail or through a local provider. The FDA identifies many side effects of the abortion pill such as nausea, weakness, fever/chills, vomiting, headache, diarrhea, and dizziness.

More serious side effects of the abortion pill include serious infection or an incomplete abortion, meaning some of the contents of your pregnancy remain in your uterus. Studies have observed that  incomplete abortion can occur between 1.8 – 10% of the time. In these cases you would be advised to seek immediate medical attention and may require surgery.

Obtain an ultrasound before ordering the abortion pill by mail

Some abortion pill vendors will send the pills without the buyer having obtained an in-person medical visit. Obtaining a pregnancy screening and ultrasound is an important step whether you plan to take the abortion pill or not. Here’s why. The ultrasound reveals information about:

• The location of your pregnancy. If your pregnancy has implanted anywhere outside the uterus, you could have an ectopic pregnancy. In this instance, you would be advised to seek immediate medical attention. If you are considering taking the abortion pill, it could be especially dangerous if the pregnancy is ectopic. The FDA warns the abortion pill “will not be effective to terminate an ectopic pregnancy.”  Ectopic pregnancies occur in about 2% of pregnancies and have been increasing in recent years, especially among young women.
• The gestational age of your pregnancy. This is determined by measuring the dimensions of your pregnancy. The abortion pill is FDA approved only through 10 weeks of pregnancy.
• The viability of the pregnancy. If a heartbeat cannot be detected, it is possible you may naturally miscarry. In this case, you would be advised to follow up with your physician and avoid taking unnecessary abortion pills.

What is my next step?

Your first step before taking an abortion pill by mail is to make an appointment for an ultrasound. Here at Waterleaf Women’s Center, we offer pregnancy screening and ultrasound for free and no insurance is required.  Our medical professionals will answer your questions and provide you with non-judgmental compassionate care.  Your health and safety matters!  Call or text us confidentially at 630-360-2256 or contact us online.

(Please note, no content of this article is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.)

What is blood type related to Rh Factor?

The main blood type classifications are A, B, AB, and O.  Your blood also has an “Rh Factor” that is positive or negative, depending on whether certain proteins are in your blood. If the proteins are present on the red blood cells, your blood type is considered positive. If no protein is present, your blood type is negative.

Why should I know my blood type and Rh Factor before taking the abortion pill?

When the blood of an Rh-positive fetus mixes with the blood of an Rh-negative woman, her body will recognize that it does not belong and will create antibodies to fight it. This is called being Rh-sensitized. 

85% of people have a positive blood type. That leaves only 15% of the population having a negative blood type. The likelihood that a woman with a negative blood type might carry a child with a positive blood type are quite high.

If you are a woman with an Rh-negative blood type, you will need a special shot, called RHoGAM, any time there is a possibility that the fetus’s blood could mix with your blood, such as during:

• Miscarriage
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Abortion
• Prenatal tissue testing (e.g. Amniocentesis, Chorionic villus sampling)
• Abdominal trauma

RHoGAM works by stopping your body from creating antibodies against the fetus’s positive blood. Having this shot now is important for protecting future pregnancies.

Without RHoGAM, the antibodies created in your body stay in your bloodstream. These antibodies can harm future pregnancies by causing anemia in the baby. Severe anemia in a baby could result in disability or death.

Not knowing your blood type and taking the abortion pill could therefore jeopardize any future pregnancies you may have. Consult your doctor about getting tested for Rh Factor.

What should I do if I am Rh-negative and considering an abortion?

If you know you have Rh-negative blood, or you are unsure of your blood type, it is important to tell your healthcare provider before any abortion procedure or treatment so they can confirm your blood type and Rh Factor first. If you are Rh-negative, you may need an injection called RhoGAM. RhoGAM is given within 72 hours of a procedure to help prevent your immune system from developing antibodies which could affect a future pregnancy. Your healthcare provider can help determine whether RhoGAM is recommended based on your individual situation.

What should I do if I am Rh-negative and have already had an abortion?

If you are Rh-negative and have already had an abortion, Rh-sensitization may have already occurred. Contact the healthcare provider or facility where your abortion was performed to ask whether RhoGAM was administered. When recommended, RhoGAM is most effective if it is given within 72 hours of the abortion. If more than 72 hours have passed, you should contact your healthcare provider for guidance on next steps, especially before getting pregnant again.

Schedule a Pregnancy Test and Ultrasound

If you took a positive pregnancy test, we at Waterleaf Women’s Center can provide you with a free lab-quality pregnancy confirmation test as well as ultrasound, even if you are considering the abortion pill. An ultrasound provides crucial information about your pregnancy, such as the location, gestational age, and viability of your pregnancy. This information will help you make an informed decision.

Schedule a safe, confidential, judgment free appointment at Waterleaf today by calling/texting 630-360-2256 confidentially. No insurance is required. If you’ve taken the first abortion pill and changed your mind, learn more about the possibility of Abortion Pill Reversal here.

Reasons women don’t want a child with him

Studies have shown women have given several reasons for not wanting to have a child with a particular man, including:

• Relationship instability: You’re pregnant but your relationship with the man is not “good.” Or, you may consider the man unfit for fatherhood.
• Lack of support: The father does not support your pregnancy or you in general. This may also include his inability to provide financial support for a child.
• Abuse: Abuse from a partner can come in various forms, including verbal, emotional, coercive, or physical.

You may have these same concerns, and the stress of an unplanned pregnancy can intensify your concerns.

Steps to address not wanting a child with him

Depending on your specific situation – whether relationship instability, financial issues, or even whether you are married or pregnant with a partner – there are several things to consider.

First Step: Your first step for any pregnancy is to confirm your pregnancy with a pregnancy test and obtain an ultrasound. Pregnancy resource centers like Waterleaf Women’s Center can provide you with a medical-grade pregnancy test and an ultrasound for free and no insurance is required.  Even if you are considering abortion, the ultrasound is a critical step to determine gestational age, location, and viability – all of which can impact your health and decision.

Make sure to take time to decide: When you are experiencing a pregnancy with a partner you don’t want to have a child with, sometimes it can help to speak to someone professional. Identify what is the root cause of your concern about having a child with a particular man. Making an informed decision can give you peace of mind.

Stress can be alleviated when you find support and resources. For example, a parenting class could help you realize you are capable and more ready than you think. Various financial or housing resources could remove other burdens from your mind. 

Talk to a professional about what options are available.  At Waterleaf, we can help you organize your thoughts and refer you to resources which might be exactly what you need.

Co-Parenting with Boundaries: Many women who have partner concerns have provided for a child with various levels of involvement from their partner. If your partner is cooperative and you are agreeable, you may work something out with him.

In more difficult situations, counseling or legal aid for custody rights is available.

If you are concerned about an abusive relationship, you can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1-800-799-SAFE for help.

Co-Parenting: So far, you’ve considered what resources could benefit you in the situation where you have reservations about having a child with the father. Perhaps consider whether he might benefit from resources. Is there some type of help or a skill that he could acquire that would change your mind about raising a child with him?

For example, would he stand to benefit from financial counseling? Parenting classes? Mental health support? Family support? It’s important to identify the root of your concerns and to look for a solution.

Contact Waterleaf for information about what resources are available for men.

Single Parenting: If you are single, there are multiple resources available to single mothers. One might be your family and friends who are willing to help. Extended family or friends may also be happy to help. If you can find trusted family or friends to help you provide for your child, this can significantly ease your situation.

There is also public or non-profit assistance for single mothers, including housing assistance, childcare funds, support groups and more.  If you need help connecting with the right resource for you, contact a local advisor like a pregnancy resource center.  Waterleaf can provide referrals and guidance for free.

Adoption: Many women have determined that they cannot parent with their partner and do not have the means to raise a child. Sometimes, women in this situation choose adoption to place their child into a loving family. Waterleaf can help you learn about adoption options and connect with adoption resources.

Next steps

These considerations can help you take a step back, slow down, and determine what is best for you and your child. Please remember, you never have to feel like you are alone.

If you’re experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and have concerns about raising a child with the father, contact the professionals at Waterleaf Women’s Center for a free appointment. No insurance is required. Our staff can provide you with a medical consultation, answer your questions, and provide you with referrals and information about resources available to you.  Call or text confidentially at 630-360-2256 (CALM).

Where to start for an ultrasound with no insurance?

One of the best resources to obtain an ultrasound if you don’t have insurance is your local pregnancy resource center. Be sure to visit their website or contact them first to confirm if they provide services with no insurance.

For example, here at Waterleaf Women’s Center in Aurora, we provide ultrasounds free with no insurance required. At your appointment, we will provide you with a medical-grade pregnancy confirmation followed by ultrasound. You’ll have the opportunity to ask our licensed medical professionals any questions that you may have.

Why is an ultrasound important?

An important step for any pregnancy is to obtain an ultrasound. An ultrasound provides several pieces of important medical information, including:

• The location of your pregnancy. If your pregnancy has implanted anywhere outside the uterus you could have an ectopic pregnancy. In this instance, you would be advised to seek immediate medical attention.
• The gestational age is determined by measuring the dimensions of the pregnancy. This can help you with your health and planning. Even if you were considering something like the abortion pill, it is FDA-approved only through 10 weeks of pregnancy, so you will need to know the gestational age.
• The viability of your pregnancy. If a heartbeat cannot be detected, or if the ultrasound does not show the findings we would expect to see, we may recommend that you follow up with your physician. In some cases, a pregnancy that is not progressing as expected may end naturally without medical intervention.

What other resources can I get at a Pregnancy Resource Center?

For any specific pregnancy resource center, call or visit the center’s website to see what additional resources or services that particular center provides.

Here at Waterleaf Women’s Center, we also offer additional resources such as: options counseling, health care referrals, education, counseling, financial resource referrals, community resource referrals, and more!

I’m pregnant and I don’t have insurance, what’s my next step?

Consider an appointment at Waterleaf Women’s Center. All of our appointments are free and do not require insurance. All clients are treated with compassion and without judgement.  Our medical professionals and team are here to help you so you can make healthy, informed decisions.    Make an appointment today by calling or texting confidentially at 630-360-2256 (CALM). Walk-ins are also welcome during regular business hours. We are here for you!

Let’s take a look at when each pill is typically taken, how each pill works, and what its side effects include.

(Please note, no content of this article is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.)

PLAN B

What is Plan B?

Plan B, also known as the morning after pill, is a tablet to “help prevent pregnancy after birth control failure or unprotected sex.”

When is Plan B taken?

It is intended to be taken within 3 days or 72 hours after birth control failure or unprotected sex. It contains a “higher dose” of the hormone levonorgestrel, that is in in many birth control pills.

How does Plan B work?

According to the label, Plan B “usually” works by stopping or delaying the release of an egg from the ovary. Other methods by which Plan B may work are described in the FDA’s clinical trials. These include preventing sperm from reaching the egg or preventing a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus.

What are Plan B side effects?

The Plan B label reports some women may experience changes in their period timing or severity. Common side effects include nausea, abdominal pain, tiredness, headache, dizziness, and breast tenderness. Severe abdominal pain could indicate “an ectopic pregnancy,” which would require immediate medical attention.

ABORTION PILL

What is the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill, also known as a medication, chemical, or at-home abortion, is a combination of two sets of pills to end an early pregnancy.

When is the Abortion Pill taken?

The FDA approves the abortion pill up to 10 weeks (or 70 days) of pregnancy.

How does the Abortion Pill work?

The first abortion pill taken, mifepristone, ends the pregnancy by blocking the hormone progesterone that nourishes the pregnancy,  so it may continue. The second set of pills, misoprostol, is typically taken 24-48 hours later to cause contractions to expel the pregnancy.

What are abortion pill side effects?

The FDA abortion pill label says “cramping and vaginal bleeding are expected.” Common side effects also include nausea, weakness, fever/chills vomiting, headache, diarrhea, and dizziness. More serious side effects may include “prolonged heavy bleeding” or “serious bacterial infection” such as sepsis.

There are also health conditions, known as “contraindications,” that make taking the abortion pill especially dangerous. For example, this procedure is not advised for women who have anemia, bleeding disorders, liver or kidney disease, seizure disorder, acute inflammatory bowels, or use an IUD. Consult a medical professional for more information.

Are you concerned you may be unexpectedly pregnant?

If you think you might be pregnant or have questions about Plan B or the abortion pill, Waterleaf’s medical professionals are available to speak with you free and no insurance is required.

Our free medical consultations include a professional pregnancy test and ultrasound. Make an appointment today by calling or texting confidentially at 630-360-2256 (CALM).

If you’ve taken the first abortion pill and changed your mind, do not take the second pill. Contact an Abortion Pill Reversal resource immediately:

• Waterleaf: 630-360-2256 (CALM). Call or text confidentially.
  Call the Abortion Pill Rescue hotline: 877-558-0333 for a medical provider in your area.

With so many New Year’s “resolutions” emphasizing health, you might think to yourself: “Great idea! Where do I start?” It’s important for women of all ages to prioritize their health and well-being. Let’s look at what recent studies show about health and some simple ideas to maximize your wellness in 2026.

What are Some Health Tips for Women?

1. Prioritize Mental Health Through Mindfulness

Recent data paints a concerning picture of women’s mental health. A 2023 study found that self-confidence among girls at every grade level, even through high school, have fallen. About 40% of teens reported feeling depressed at least four days per week. 83% of high school seniors felt like they were going to “explode” under pressure.

To combat this trend, incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine:

• Practice breathing meditations which can reduce your “mental workload.”
• Keep a journal, which has been shown to help manage anxiety and reduce stress.
• Take advantage of sunny days – researchers have observed the improvement on mood that sunshine can provide.

2. Embrace a Balanced, Nutrient-Dense Diet

The topic of “processed foods” remains popular in 2025. With so many processed commercial food products, it can feel daunting to eat healthy. Here are several health tips for women regarding nutrition:

• Choose foods with minimal additives like artificial colors and flavors which are linked to many health problems.
• Cook more at home, which let’s you have more control of what’s in your food and portion sizes.
• Limit highly-processed foods which increase risk of chronic disease.

3. Remember to Walk

Daily walking has been observed to help prevent cancer and cardiovascular disease. Even short walks can help you physically and mentally. Here are some ideas on how to add more steps to your daily routine:

• Park farther from the store entrance
• Take stairs instead of the elevator
• Do one lap around the store before you start shopping
• Use your lunch break to walk
• Walk across the office instead of sending an email
• Vacuum
• Walk to nearby stores instead of driving

4. Cultivate Healthy Sleep Habits

A recent survey showed that women are almost twice as likely as men to report poor sleep. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends several tips for a better night’s sleep:

• Set a consistent sleep schedule
• Keep your bedroom cool, quiet, and relaxing
• Limit evening bright light and electronic device exposure
• Exercise and maintain a healthy diet
• Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol before bed
• If you don’t fall asleep within 20 minutes, do a quiet activity under low light

5. Stay Hydrated

The Mayo Clinic recommends women drink 11.5 cups (or 2.7 liters) of water per day. Here are a few tips to help cultivate hydrating habits:

• Set a timer throughout the day to take a drink
• Drink extra water after exercise or hot or dry days
• Include water-rich foods like salads, fruit, or applesauce in your day

Remember, these tips are just a starting point on your journey to better health. Every woman’s needs are unique, and it’s essential to listen to your body and consult with healthcare professionals when needed.

At Waterleaf, we are here for you.  Your health matters. If you have any questions about your body or situation, we are here to help. You can speak with our health professionals confidentially and without judgement.  Call or text confidentially today at 630-360-2256.

Let’s look at a Q&A of how common “reproductive coercion” is, what pressure looks like, and what steps to take next.

Am I the only one who feels pressured?

You are not alone. Partner pressure to abort is far more common than many women realize, but it’s often not talked about openly.

A 2023 peer-reviewed study of women with abortion histories, published in the medical journal Cureus, found that “61% reported high levels of pressure on at least one scale,” including pressure from partners, family members, finances, or other circumstances. Nearly one in four described their abortions as unwanted or coerced.

A separate prospective study published in General Hospital Psychiatry followed 80 women for two years after their abortions and concluded that “male pressure on women to have an induced abortion has a significant, negative influence” on their psychological responses in the years that follow.

What does reproductive coercion look like?

Reproductive coercion is when a partner uses pressure, manipulation, or control to influence your reproductive decisions. A 2024 peer-reviewed study published in PLOS One said reproductive coercion can include “threats, violence or coercion to force someone to terminate a pregnancy.” A separate study in the Journal of Family Violence found that women pressured to end a pregnancy were sometimes “threatened with repercussions such as physical violence, or with the loss of their relationship.”

In studies like these, women described patterns like:

• A partner who suddenly turns hostile, cold, or withdrawn after learning about the pregnancy
• A boyfriend who frames the pregnancy as something done to him; worried about how he’ll be judged by others, or about being tied down by the cost of a child
• A partner refusing to consider adoption, parenting, or even time to think; only abortion is on the table
• Pressure tied to the relationship; making clear he won’t be involved with a child, or that he may leave or stop speaking to her if she keeps the pregnancy

If any of these sound familiar, it’s worth taking time to process before making a decision you can’t undo.

Have you obtained an ultrasound?

An important step before making any decision is to obtain an ultrasound. An ultrasound provides several pieces of important medical information, including:

• The location of your pregnancy. If your pregnancy has implanted anywhere outside the uterus you could have an ectopic pregnancy. In this instance, you would be advised to seek immediate medical attention. The FDA specifically says the abortion pill “will not be effective to terminate an ectopic pregnancy.”
• The gestational age is determined by measuring the dimensions of the pregnancy. The abortion pill can be dangerous to you if your pregnancy is farther along than you may think. The FDA approves of the abortion pill up to 70 days (10 weeks). Be warned that some abortion pill vendors claim the abortion pill is safe beyond the FDA’s 10-week approved range. Abortion pill risks such as uterine rupture increase the farther along you are in your pregnancy. The ultrasound provides you with an accurate gestational age so you can make the best decision for you.
• The viability of your pregnancy. If a heartbeat cannot be detected, or if the ultrasound does not show the findings we would expect to see, we recommend follow-up with your physician. In some cases, a pregnancy that is not progressing as expected may end naturally without medical intervention. Appropriate follow-up care may also help avoid an unnecessary abortion procedure.

Clinics like Waterleaf Women’s Center offer free medical-grade pregnancy testing and ultrasound.

I’m also experiencing partner violence – what do I do?

Sadly, reproductive coercion sometimes involves partner threats or violence. If your partner has harmed you or threatened to harm you, has tampered with your birth control or tried to slip you the abortion pill, seek help right away. Contact local police or a safety organization like the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788.

If you have taken the abortion pill but still wish to continue your pregnancy, do not take the second set of pills and immediately contact an Abortion Pill Reversal resource immediately:

• Waterleaf: 630-360-2256. Call or text confidentially.
• Abortion Pill Rescue hotline: 877-558-0333 for a medical provider in your area.

Next steps

You deserve space to make a responsible and safe decision about your pregnancy. At Waterleaf Women’s Center, we can provide you with a free medical-grade pregnancy test and ultrasound free of charge; insurance is not required. Your appointment is confidential, and you are treated with compassion. We do not profit from any decision you make.

Our licensed medical professionals will take the time to understand your situation and answer any questions you may have. Call or text Waterleaf confidentially today at 630-360-2256 (CALM).