Drug Abuse, Pregnancy Health

The use of narcotics while carrying a child has many significant effects on the condition of the mother and the baby.

For one, the baby is likely to have low birth weight or be born prematurely. In addition, he will have more chances of developing health problems, lasting disabilities, and cerebral palsy. Worse, he could suffer a stroke, which often leads to mental retardation or even death. If he is more fortunate, he would most probably still have to endure learning problems early on in life.

Placental abruption is also another matter to watch out for when abusing medications during pregnancy. This happens when the placenta detaches from the uterine walls prior to labour. This brings about heavy bleeding that could threaten the life of the mother and the child. The baby would then be deprived of oxygen and enough blood supply. Although a prompt caesarean operation could prevent deaths, it might leave serious complications for the foetus.

Finally, mild behavioural disturbances may also be observed in a cocaine-exposed infant after birth. A newborn may be jittery, irritable, and easily startled with the most gentle touch or sound. When he cries, he is often difficult to comfort, withdrawn, or unresponsive. These kinds of disturbances are, however, often temporary and resolved in the first few months.

With all these health risks, the responsibility of mothers and couples when it comes to the wellbeing of their child could not be understated how big. Even while in the womb, the baby deserves the best kind of protection that parents, above all, are expected to give.