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Considering Abortion Because I Drank and Smoked While I Was Pregnant

During an unexpected pregnancy, it’s possible you might not have known you were pregnant when engaging in recreational activities. You may have heard about the effects smoking and drinking can have on pregnant women. And your apprehension about potential effects on the pregnancy itself may have led you to consider your options. It’s normal to feel anxious when faced with a circumstance you might not have planned for. But before you take any action, it’s recommended you assess your health and learn all you can from a trusted resource.

If you’re considering abortion due to smoking or drinking while pregnant, Avenue Women’s Center is a great first step. We can provide you with relevant services and reliable information. We’ll help you feel equipped regarding your options of abortion, adoption, and parenting. During our free appointment, you can also learn more about your health. Our expert staff will take the time to learn more about your unique circumstances to see how our services can benefit you.

Contact us today for free support and care from any of our six locations throughout the Chicagoland area!

What If I Didn’t Know I Was Pregnant When I Was Smoking and Drinking?  

Having a drink or smoking may be a form of relaxation for you. For some women, they may not have had time to stop these habits before learning they’re pregnant. For some, it’s helpful to determine first whether or not this had had any effect on your health or the health of your pregnancy. In this case, it can be helpful to speak with a doctor who can assess your well-being. A medical professional may advise you to make changes to your lifestyle. To safeguard your health, they may advise you to stop smoking and drinking throughout the remainder of your pregnancy.

Even if you are still considering your options, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) does not recommend consuming alcohol products prior to an abortion. It’s also advised that you do not drink if you’re prescribed antibiotics after an abortion to prevent an infection, as alcohol may not mix well with certain medications. The same goes for smoking, as some researchers have found it can reduce the efficacy of some types of medicines.

Who Can I Reach Out to for Help?

It may be challenging to resist the urge to smoke or drink. If you feel yourself struggling, you may want to enlist support. Your friends and family members can not only offer encouragement, but they may be able to ensure you remain committed to breaking these habits during your unexpected pregnancy. In addition, professional resources, such as a healthcare provider, a therapist, or a pregnancy consultant, can offer guidance and ensure you have help.

How Can I Receive Updates About My Pregnancy’s Health?

You may be worried that your usual relaxation methods have increased your risk of experiencing complications. To rule out these concerns, it’s recommended you meet with a healthcare provider to assess your condition.

An ultrasound exam may be administered to determine if there’s any chance of a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy. Even if you are considering abortion, it’s typically important to have these conditions ruled out, as they may require medical treatment. Women who are found to have either one of these complications are usually not eligible for an abortion procedure anymore.

Receiving Professional Support During an Unexpected Pregnancy

It can be helpful to also sit down with a professional resource. They may be able to give clarity regarding each of your unexpected pregnancy choices. There can be a lot of concerns at this time not only about your health but your next steps in making a decision. Gathering reliable information on your own can be a challenge. And by speaking with someone who’s trained to provide you with answers to your questions, you can learn more about which of your options is the most applicable to you.

If drinking or smoking are impacting your pregnancy decision, it can be helpful to gather more information before taking the next step. Avenue Women’s Center provides the information you need. We’ll walk you through each of your potential decisions during your private consultation appointment. Receive free limited medical services and confidential options consultations. Then, you can learn more about your pregnancy and the options that are available to you.

Schedule your free appointment with us today to discuss your concerns with our trained staff!

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References:

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2019, March). Alcohol and Pregnancy Questions and Answers. Retrieved from: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/fasd/faqs.html.
  • Medication interactions with smoking and smoking cessation. NSW Government Health. health.nsw.gov.au/tobacco/Publications/tool-14-medication-intera.pdf.

Reviewed by Patricia Kuenzi, APN-CNP, MSN, ANP, PNP.

The information provided here is general in nature.  It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center.  If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention.  Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.