This article was originally published by The Pueblo Chieftain written by Tracy Harmon. Copyright © 2021 The Pueblo Chieftain, Pueblo, CO. 1/24/2021

Making a pregnancy decision is deeply personal and can feel overwhelming. If you’re considering the abortion pill, it’s essential to be fully informed about the process, risks, and alternatives. At ACPC Women's Clinic, we’re here to provide clarity, support, and non-judgmental guidance. Before taking the abortion pill, here are five key things to consider: 1. Confirm Your Pregnancy Before making any decisions, it’s crucial to confirm that you are indeed pregnant. A medical-grade pregnancy test and an ultrasound can determine how far along you are, which affects your options. The abortion pill is only FDA-approved for use up to 10 weeks of pregnancy, so knowing your gestational age is vital. Additionally, an ultrasound can help detect an ectopic pregnancy, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention and cannot be treated with the abortion pill. Our clinic offers free pregnancy tests and ultrasounds to provide accurate information and ensure your safety. 2. Understand the Process and Risks The abortion pill, also known as medication abortion, involves two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol . Mifepristone works by blocking progesterone, a hormone necessary for maintaining pregnancy, while misoprostol induces uterine contractions to expel the pregnancy. While the process is typically completed at home, it can be accompanied by significant cramping, heavy bleeding, nausea, fever, and other side effects. It’s important to be aware of potential risks, including incomplete abortion, which may require surgical intervention, severe bleeding, or infection. Additionally, some women experience emotional and psychological effects after an abortion. Speaking with a healthcare provider about these risks can help you make a well-informed decision. 3. Know Your Legal Rights and Protections Laws regarding abortion vary by state, and Colorado has specific regulations surrounding abortion access. Unlike some states, Colorado does not have a waiting period or parental consent requirement for minors, meaning women can obtain an abortion without mandatory delays. However, it’s essential to be aware of your rights and any potential legal implications of obtaining abortion pills online or across state lines. Some sources selling abortion pills online may not provide FDA-approved medications, increasing the risk of complications. 4. Explore All Your Options You deserve to know all of your options before making a final decision. Beyond abortion, adoption and parenting are also possibilities . While it may seem overwhelming, many resources exist to support women facing unintended pregnancies. Parenting support services, financial assistance programs, and adoption mentoring are available to help women make a decision that aligns with their values and long-term goals. Speaking with a trained advocate can help you explore what’s best for your unique situation without pressure or judgment. ACPC Women's Clinic provides confidential mentoring, educational resources, and referrals to services that can support you. 5. Seek Emotional and Medical Support An unintended pregnancy can bring emotional and physical challenges. Having a strong support system—whether it’s a counselor, trusted friend, or medical professional—can make a difference in coping with the emotional impact of your decision. Some women report experiencing feelings of relief after an abortion, while others struggle with emotions such as sadness, guilt, or regret. Seeking post-abortion counseling and emotional support can help process these feelings and ensure mental well-being. Our clinic provides confidential consultations and resources to help you make an informed decision and receive the care you need. No matter what decision you are facing, you are not alone. ACPC Women's Clinic is here to offer compassionate care and a safe space to discuss your options. Whether you need medical information, emotional support, or practical assistance, we are here to walk alongside you. If you have questions or need support, reach out to us today. Your health and well-being matter, and we are here to help you navigate this journey with clarity and confidence.

Pregnancy is a time of significant changes and considerations, especially regarding health and nutrition. One common question that arises is whether to continue or discontinue Vitamin D supplements during pregnancy. Vitamin D is crucial for various bodily functions, but its role becomes even more critical during pregnancy. Here’s a comprehensive look at why you should not stop taking Vitamin D supplements when you’re expecting. The Importance of Vitamin D during Pregnancy Bone Health for Mother and Baby: Vitamin D plays a vital role in calcium absorption, essential for the development of your baby's bones and teeth. Adequate Vitamin D levels help prevent rickets in newborns, a condition that leads to soft and weak bones. For the mother, maintaining proper Vitamin D levels can reduce the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures. Immune System Support: Vitamin D is known to support the immune system. During pregnancy, a robust immune system is crucial to protect both the mother and the developing baby from infections and illnesses. Reduced Risk of Complications: Adequate Vitamin D levels during pregnancy have been associated with a lower risk of complications such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm birth. Ensuring sufficient intake can contribute to a smoother pregnancy journey. Mental Health Benefits: There is growing evidence suggesting that Vitamin D may play a role in mood regulation and the prevention of depression. Considering the emotional and psychological changes during pregnancy, maintaining adequate Vitamin D levels could be beneficial for mental well-being. Current Recommendations and Guidelines Medical professionals generally recommend that pregnant women maintain an adequate level of Vitamin D. The exact dosage can vary, but many health organizations suggest that pregnant women should aim for a daily intake of 600-800 IU (International Units) of Vitamin D. However, some women might need more based on their individual health conditions, skin pigmentation, geographic location, and dietary intake. Sources of Vitamin D Sunlight: The body can produce Vitamin D when the skin is exposed to sunlight. However, factors like geographic location, season, and sunscreen use can affect Vitamin D synthesis from sunlight. Diet: Foods like fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), fortified milk, eggs, and cheese are good dietary sources of Vitamin D. However, it can be challenging to obtain adequate amounts from diet alone. Supplements: Given the challenges of obtaining enough Vitamin D from sunlight and diet, supplements can be an effective way to ensure you meet your daily needs. Consulting with Your Healthcare Provider Before making any changes to your supplement regimen, it's crucial to consult with your healthcare provider. They can assess your current Vitamin D levels through a blood test and determine the appropriate dosage for your specific needs. Your healthcare provider can also provide guidance on the best type of supplement to take and monitor your levels throughout your pregnancy. Conclusion In summary, stopping Vitamin D supplements during pregnancy is generally not advisable without consulting your healthcare provider. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in the health of both mother and baby, supporting bone development, immune function, and reducing the risk of complications. Ensuring you have adequate Vitamin D levels can contribute to a healthier and more comfortable pregnancy. Always consult with your healthcare provider to tailor the best plan for your nutritional needs during this important time. By staying informed and proactive about your Vitamin D intake, you can help ensure a healthy pregnancy for you and your baby.