12 Devastating Effects of Cocaine Abuse During Pregnancy
Cocaine abuse during pregnancy can lead to devastating effects. Here is a list of how cocaine use can affect a pregnant woman and her baby:
1. Cocaine increases the risk of miscarriage when used during early months of pregnancy.
2. Cocaine may cause premature labour when used late during pregnancy.
3. Babies born from cocaine-using mothers tend to have low birth weights. This is because cocaine cuts the flow of nutrients and oxygen to the fetus.
4. Women who are cocaine users during pregnancy will most likely bear babies with smaller heads and thus smaller brains and arrested mental development.
5. Cocaine abuse during pregnancy also leads to several complications during labour and delivery.
6. Cocaine abuse also causes a condition called placental abruption. This is when the placenta pulls away from the wall of the uterus prior to labour that might lead to extensive bleeding. This can be fatal to both the mother and the baby.
7. Babies born from a cocaine-addicted mother often have serious health problems. Low birth weight increases the risk of death up to 20 times during the first month compared to a normal weight infant.
8. Babies exposed to cocaine in the womb may suffer from mental retardation, cerebral palsy, visual and hearing impairment.
9. Cocaine abuse during pregnancy increases the risk of birth defects on babies, for instance, cocaine-exposed babies are five times more likely to suffer malformation of the urinary tract.
10. Cocaine-exposed babies have poor physical condition such as motor ability, reflexes, attention and mood control and overall responsiveness.
11. Cocaine abuse during pregnancy result to babies who have feeding difficulties and sleep disturbances. These babies are also difficult to look after since they are either hard to comfort or unresponsive.
12. A cocaine using mother may not be able to bond with her baby which is not good since bonding is said to be vital in a baby’s emotional development.
The Have I Got A Problem website is a free online resource to help people better understand any issues or concerns they may have about mental health or addiction. The website includes resources specifically focused to; general Mental Health, Depression, Stress, Anxiety, Insecurities, Self-harm Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Anger Management, Eating Disorders, Coping, general Addiction, Alcohol, Smoking, Gambling, Drugs, Cocaine, Heroin, Marijuana (Cannabis) Ecstasy, PCP, Mephedrone, Ketamine & Crystal Meth.
The site was created to give the public information to help them understand mental health and addiction issues and to assist people in making better informed decisions about their life and personal choices.
www.haveigotaproblem.com was created and is run by 'Advising Communities’, which is a UK registered charity (Charity No. 1061055)
Downloads
Quotes
"My friends are driving me crazy and I lost my job. Last night a friend offered me heroin and I actually considered it... that was my wake up call."
Dale
MoreSend us your QuotesTips & Hints
Drugs Decide to make a change
For many people struggling with addiction, the biggest and toughest step toward recovery is deciding to make a change. It’s normal to...MoreReach out for support
Don’t try to go it alone. Whatever treatment approach you choose, having a solid support system is essential. The more positive influ...MoreKeep triggers and cravings in check
While getting sober from drugs is an important first step, it’s only the beginning of the recovery process. Once sober, the brain nee...MoreLook for help
There are many groups and organizations available to help you overcome your addiction. Once you have set your mind to beating your addi...MoreMake a life change
The first step to fighting addiction is to make a decision that it is time to make a life change. That life change will reflect your de...More More Tips & Hints
