The use of drugs and alcohol must be avoided during pregnancy. Drug abuse during pregnancy can be very dangerous for the health of the mother as well as the child. Around 4% of pregnant women use illicit drugs. Despite of being aware of the consequences of drug addiction during pregnancy, many women in the US and elsewhere experiment with illegal drugs. The use of harmful drugs such as cocaine and heroin can have a detrimental effect on the growth of the baby inside the womb.
Negative Effects of Drug Abuse on the Development of the Fetus
Drug use can cause pregnancy loss. The use of illicit drugs can result in miscarriage and stillbirth. Even if the child survives, the baby is prone to a number of illnesses .
Illnesses commonly observed in children born to women who abuse drugs during pregnancy:
- Development Delays
- Respiratory Diseases
- Slow Growth
- Physical Deformities
- Learning Disabilities
- Vision Loss
- Behavioral Problems
Negative Effects of Drug Abuse on the Overall Health of a Woman
Apart from affecting the child, drug abuse has a very negative impact on the health of pregnant women. Nutritional deficiencies, preterm labor, postpartum depression, mineral deficiencies and anemia are more likely to occur in women who abuse drugs.
Negative Effects of Drug Abuse on a Woman’s Behavior
Drug abuse leads to behavioral changes. Women who abuse drugs are more likely to ignore prenatal care. This may jeopardize the heath of a women and her unborn child. Additionally, these women are more likely to ignore the nutritional requirements during pregnancy. It has become supremely important to raise awareness regarding the negative effects of drug abuse on pregnant women. While most women realize the harmful effects of drug abuse during pregnancy, some of them fail to take the appropriate care. If a woman is habitual to using drugs, it may be difficult for her to stop using during pregnancy.
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