The dangers of drug use during pregnancy are apparent as all substances ingested by the mother, cross through the placenta to the baby. Despite this knowledge, the urge to continue to use drugs and alcohol is very strong. Education and proper medical care during pregnancy indicates possible problems if addiction is present. Continued drug or alcohol usage during pregnancy presents a grave danger to the baby in the womb. The harmful effects of substance abuse can affect brain development and have long-lasting consequences after birth.
Drug Use and its Effects During Pregnancy
Medical experts continue to expound upon the dangers of drug use during pregnancy. Despite public outcry, babies continue to be born with drug or alcohol addictions. Withdrawal for these tiny humans is dangerous and painful. Doctors do not always immediately recognize the damage done to a newborn child, but the damage can last a lifetime. Effects of the mother’s drug and alcohol use can differ depending on the substance ingested and the point of development of the baby in the womb.
Alcohol
Alcohol usage during pregnancy can increase the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth and newborn death, which are all heartbreaking situations. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) presents with the possibilities of heart and facial defects, learning problems, low birth weights and other issues with brain function. The dangers of drug use during pregnancy includes alcohol addiction. It is best for the mother to stop drinking any alcohol once she determines she is pregnant.
Marijuana
Marijuana can be harmful to the baby in utero, increasing the possibility of miscarriage, low birth weight and premature birth. The interruption of normal fetal development has been found in mothers who use marijuana. Learning difficulties in childhood, disruptive behaviors, and visual spatial difficulties can occur. The dangers of drug use during pregnancy include learning difficulties among some children.
Cocaine
Cocaine is among the most dangerous drugs for an unborn baby. Miscarriage and preterm death are often linked to cocaine usage. The dangers of drug use during pregnancy include babies being born addicted, irritable, and jittery. Cocaine use during pregnancy exposes children to future difficulties which include, lower intelligence, impaired attention issues, emotional and behavioral problems and more.
Heroin
Heroin use during pregnancy accentuates the dangers of drug use during pregnancy. Using heroin during pregnancy can cause premature birth, neonatal abstinence syndrome, birth defects and stillbirth. Heroin-addicted pregnant mothers should report their heroin use to a medical professional. Doctors advise them to receive help with withdrawing from the drug and to not just quit, cold turkey, as this can cause infant death or other severe issues. Medical medication can ease the symptoms of withdrawal and be a safer alternative.
Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine addiction during pregnancy results in a greater risk of premature birth, and low birth weight, and heart and brain abnormalities. Pregnant women who are unaware of the dangers of drug use during pregnancy should notify their physicians about their drug use. Babies born to mothers using methamphetamines during pregnancy have shown development disability, attention problems and behavior issues in childhood.
Long-Term Effects of Drug Use During Pregnancy
The long term effects on children born to mothers who used alcohol or drugs during pregnancy include many learning difficulties, negative behavior patterns and attention problems. The dangers of drug use during pregnancy continue long beyond the birth of the baby. Developmental delays that occur can signal need for early intervention services. Researchers continue to gather information and data to determine the effects of addiction during pregnancy.
Tobacco or nicotine addiction is another negative factor for usage in pregnancy. Smoking can affect the unborn baby as well, resulting in ADHD and other learning problems in childhood. Pregnant mothers need to consider the dangers of drug use during pregnancy to eliminate or reduce the possibilities of serious disabilities for their children.
Find Detox Treatment for Drug Use in Pregnancy
It is imperative that pregnant mothers notify their physician of their addiction in receiving their all important prenatal care. The dangers of drug use during pregnancy involve both the mother and the child, so there exist a large number of treatment options. A medical professional carefully monitors the withdrawal from the addictive substance. Medical medication therapy may be utilized for safety in withdrawal for the developing baby. Treatment options are available for safe detoxification from drugs or alcohol. Both mother and child receive treatment at the same time, as both are affected by detox.
The Dangers of Drug Use in Pregnancy in California
If you or a loved one is pregnant and addicted to drugs or alcohol, the time to act is now! At Launch Centers in Los Angeles, California we have experienced professionals who can help you with this very serious situation. Reach out to us on the many options available on our home page! The dangers of drug use during pregnancy are real and of great consequence. Contact us for more information.
