Crack and pregnancy
Question
How does crack use effect pregnancy?
Answer
Any substance ingested by a pregnant woman will have an affect on the developing baby. Although the full extent of the effects of prenatal exposure to drugs on a child is not completely known, scientific studies have documented that mothers who misuse crack during pregnancy are more likely to miscarry, give birth early, give birth to baby's with birth weights or smaller head sizes or give birth to baby's that are shorter than average in length.
Once the baby is born, it may show symptoms of withdrawal if it has become physically dependent to the crack used by the mother during pregnancy. The baby may also have a poor ability to regulate its own body temperature and blood sugar, and is at increased risk of having seizures. Other possible effects include seizures or strokes, cerebral palsy, learning disabilities, autism, vision and hearing problems, and urinary tract abnormality.
Women who use drugs whilst pregnant are also more likely to experience additional behavioural and emotional factors that can affect the development of their baby, such as irregular sleep patterns and poor nutrition.
If you use drugs of any sort (prescribed or illegal) and discover you have become pregnant, it is strongly advised that you seek the support of your local doctor (GP) to discuss your options and to ensure the health of yourself and the baby.
If you have further concerns about how drug use will influence pregnancy, consult your GP or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.
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Question answered by Addaction
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